How long is the existing path?
The Mattapoisett Rail Trail section between Depot Street and the Phoenix Rail Trail in Fairhaven (at Shaw Road) is approximately 2.25 miles. Together with the Phoenix Rail Trail, the path from Depot Street in Mattapoisett to Main Street in Fairhaven is approximately 5.5 Miles.
Where do we park?
Please refer to the map below.
- No bike path parking is allowed on Reservation Road.
- Parking is available at the intersection of Depot Street and Railroad Avenue. However, do not park in the section for boat trailers only. Mattapoisett also allows on-street parking where there are no signs that prohibit it.
- Only authorized vehicles are allowed down Goodspeed Island Road (the beginning of the path from Depot Street.)
- There is a very small parking area at the head of Old Town Landing off Mattapoisett Neck Road, and another small lot on Brandt Island Road.
- For unlimited parking, we would suggest accessing the bike path from Stop and Shop and the other plazas in Fairhaven.
Why are the new bridges for Phase 1B (Shining Tides) so high?
The two new bridges are steel structures (to withstand hurricane-force winds) with traditional wood detailing. The bridges were designed to be high enough to meet flood surge heights and allow enough sunlight for the aquatic life below.
Did they replace the existing bridge over the Mattapoisett River? (October 2019 image below.)
No. The existing bridge, which was upgraded in 2010 with assistance from the Friends and work performed by Old Colony Regional Technical High School, has been strengthened, but the original wood structure remains.
How can the Town and riders make crossing Route 6 at Mattapoisett Neck Road safer?
For now, bicyclists coming from the North side of Route 6 usually cross at the River Road/Mattapoisett Neck Road area to get to the bike path. The issue of providing safe crossing infrastructure in that location is the responsibility of the State Transportation Department coordinated with the Town.
In the meantime, riders should dismount and make sure all is clear before crossing Route 6.
Riders can safely cross at the Main Street intersection using the pedestrian light, take a right onto Depot Street, and then a left to enter the path at Goodspeed Island Road.
Is it true that the Mattapoisett Rail Trail will ultimately connect to the the Cape Cod canal?
Yes, and so much more!
The South Coast Bikeway Alliance supports the ten towns (including Mattapoisett) along the South Coast in establishing a 50-mile continuous system of bike paths and bike lanes that will connect Providence, Rhode Island to Provincetown. The South Coast Bikeway Alliance is part of the East Coast Greenway.
East Coast Greenway keeps track of off-road bike trail progress from Key West, Florida to Calais, Maine. It’s the biking equivalent of the Appalachian Trail!