Once in a while we have this weird effect where everywhere within reasonable driving direction has a bad weather forecast for the weekend but for an appendage called Cape Cod.

I don't usually like to drive through Boston area traffic but I can be open minded if the destination and the timing is just about right. Such was the case two weeks ago when Downeast, Northern, Western and Southern Maine forecast called for rain, New Hampshire and Vermont also had a rainy weather forecast. The tourist season was officially over at Cape Cod and therefore I would not have to swashbuckle drivers and pedestrians during my bike ride. Winter is coming. I decided to go.

I packed and overpacked with tent, sleeping bag, mat and food knowing fully that I probably will end up in a motel somewhere for a low off season rate.

The drive took about 3 hours before I arrived at South Dennis Massachusetts. According to the map, this is where the Cape Cod Rail Trail begins. Cape Cod Rail Trail is a protected paved path that goes eastward for about 20 miles. I got my bike ready and started pedaling.

The ride was undulating, without any noticeable hills. I saw some bikers but also people walking their dogs and joggers. The trail crossed many roads and at many crossings I saw an opportunity to eat and drink and also several nice bike shops. I also passed nice lake beaches and properties. The weather was sunny and crisp.






It didn't take me too long to reach the end of the Rail Trail at Wayfleet. From there I took the bike route that weaved by nice beaches as well as nice lakes. I saw hardly anyone around. At this point I was also trying to take a note of spots that I could pitch a tent in case of need. (stealth camping





I kept on biking until the sun was starting to set. On route 6A in Truro I marvelled at rows of seasonal beach cottages and sand dunes in the distance.



I reached the civilized end of Cape Cod in Provincetown as the day was drawing to a close. Got a slice of pizza and a smoothie at a local cafe and found a nice room at a nearby inn. By the time I reached the inn it was getting dark.

I enjoyed a hot shower, read my book and fell asleep around 10PM.

At 7AM the next day I had a small breakfast at the inn, hopped on the bike and retraced my steps back to South Dennis. I saw cranberry harvest along the way - pretty cool.





This time the weather was windy but still crisp and sunny. All in all a great couple of days on fresh air.