The Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth, Mass., (Locust Rd., off Route 28) is a 3.3 mile bike path that meanders along the Vineyard Sound shoreline, ending in the charming coastal community of Woods Hole.

The ride is quite level on this former railway, making it ideal for the casual bike rider. Interesting that the Shining Sea Bikeway is named after the famous line in the song, “America the Beautiful.” The song was written by Falmouth native Katharine Lee Bates and published in 1910. Beautiful song, lovely bike ride!  And of course, like almost all bike trails, it’s free!