Friends of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail

Friends of the Mattapoisett Bicycle and Recreational Path support the completion of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail

The partially completed 4.5 mile multi-use path runs along the shore of Buzzards Bay, through our historic small town, and into quiet wooded areas in Southeastern Massachusetts. We work hard to make this extraordinary path a reality. We stay informed, share what we know, get out the vote when necessary, and raise money for design and other items the town government cannot fund.

The first mile (Phase 1A) opened in 2009 and runs from the Fairhaven town line to Mattapoisett Neck Road. Phase 1B, called the “Shining Tides Mile” broke ground September 2019. The west end, from Mattapoisett Neck Road to Reservation Road, opened July 2022. The section between Reservation Road and the end of Goodspeed Island Road opened April 2023. This scenic and spectacular mile that crosses the Mattapoisett River estuary, salt marshes, and Reservation Beach at the head of Mattapoisett Harbor connects neighborhoods and conservation areas with car-free biking and walking.

Phase 2A – which crosses Route 6 at Railroad Avenue and ends at the Park and Ride on North Street – is in the design stage. This section of the old railroad bed will provide a safe route to and from the Marion town line. Our fundraising efforts are currently focused on this very important connection of the South Coast Bikeway. The eastern end of Phase 2B opened in 2021. This half mile “Marion Connector” will eventually connect to Marion’s bikeway. The Town of Marion plans to begin construction soon.

The eastern end of Phase 2B opened in 2021. This half mile “Marion Connector” will eventually connect to Marion’s bikeway. The Town of Marion plans to begin construction soon.

PARKING

Parking is limited for now. (See map for parking symbols. The lots at Brandt Island Road and Old Town Landing have room for only a few cars.) If you are coming from the west, our suggestion is to park in Fairhaven and start on the Phoenix Rail Trail. Public parking is available at the end of Arsene Street and near Stop and Shop.

Many thanks to Christopher Breault at Orbital Imaging Services for sharing this stunning video of Phase 1B taken May 2023. https://www.orbitalimagingservices.com/

BIKES FOR ALL

Since 2021, we have refurbished and distributed over 180 donated bicycles, helmets, and bike bells through our Bikes for All program, so that everyone can enjoy the path! Please contact Jane Finnerty at jane.mattrail@gmail.com if you would like to donate a bicycle or volunteer to help repair or transport bikes.

DONATE

To donate toward the construction of Phase 2A and trail amenities for the existing path, click the button below. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and 100% of contributions go toward these initiatives. Thank you!



Watch this ORCTV short video of the Shining Tides Ribbon-cutting ceremony. https://fb.watch/lofgPzwyFa/