East Coast Greenway: Newburyport to Portsmouth

The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, including asphalt, making it generally easy to ride. In Newburyport, you'll find the Clipper City Rail Trail. The New Hampshire portion, also known as the New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway, currently includes interim on-road sections that hug the coast. While the overall route is relatively flat, some segments may be unpaved.

Komoot rates this specific tour as difficult. While much of the route is on paved surfaces, some sections are on-road and share space with vehicles. The East Coast Greenway Alliance recommends that long-distance travel on these on-road sections is best suited for experienced cyclists due to limited or no special provisions for bikes.

You'll experience impressive coastal views, especially along the New Hampshire Seacoast. Highlights include the Newburyport Harborwalk Rail Trail, the Newburyport Harbor Front Range Light, and continuous ocean vistas along the Ocean Boulevard Beaches. You can also enjoy views from the Isles of Shoals Viewpoint and pass through New Castle Park before reaching downtown Portsmouth.

Parking is available in both Newburyport and Portsmouth. In Newburyport, the Clipper City Rail Trail connects directly to the MBTA commuter rail station, which often has parking options. For Portsmouth, you can check the city's official website for public parking information.

Generally, dogs are allowed on leash on most rail trails and public paths that make up the East Coast Greenway. However, specific rules may vary for on-road sections or within certain parks along the route. Always check local signage and regulations, especially in towns or beaches you pass through.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and you can fully enjoy the coastal scenery. Summer can be busy, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

No specific permits or fees are generally required to cycle the East Coast Greenway itself. However, if you plan to visit state parks or beaches along the way, some may have parking fees or entrance charges, especially during peak season.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other trails. In Massachusetts, it uses parts of the East Coast Greenway (MA) and the Clipper City Rail Trail. In New Hampshire, it follows the East Coast Greenway (NH) and the New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway, which includes interim on-road sections.

This route is approximately 88 kilometers (55 miles) long. For a touring cyclist, it typically takes around 5 hours of active cycling time, not including stops for breaks or sightseeing.

Yes, touring cyclists should be aware that a significant portion of the East Coast Greenway, including sections of this route, currently involves on-road travel. These sections may have limited or no dedicated bike lanes. Future plans for the New Hampshire Seacoast Greenway aim to convert more sections to off-road trails, but for now, be prepared to share the road with vehicles.

While some sections, like the Clipper City Rail Trail, are suitable for beginners and families, the overall route from Newburyport to Portsmouth is rated as 'difficult' by Komoot due to its length and the presence of on-road sections. Experienced cyclists will find it more manageable, but beginners or families with young children might prefer to tackle shorter, dedicated off-road segments.