From secluded state forest trails to the iconic Ocean City boardwalk, biking along Maryland’s coast is a must-do activity for cyclists of all skill levels. The variety of scenery that’s encompassed in such a small region gives visitors unrivaled opportunities to explore on two wheels.
Assateague Island National Seashore provides the most quintessential bike trail on Maryland’s Coast as you pedal by sand dunes, salt marsh creeks, and of course the world-famous wild horses. The paved trail, safely separated from the road, stretches 5 miles long, from the visitor center on the mainland to the southernmost beach parking area.
Bike rentals are available from Assateague Outfitters in the visitor center parking lot. Parking at the visitor center is free, and those entering the park by bike also enjoy free entry. In fact, visiting Assateague by bike is the best way to enter the park in peak season - no parking fees, no entrance fees, no waiting in line at the fee booth, and no need to hunt for a parking space!
As you cruise along Bayberry Drive, there’s a high likelihood you’ll see some of Assateague’s wild horses that roam free on this part of the island. They could be standing in the middle of the road blocking traffic, grazing out in the marsh, or strolling right along the bike path! While biking alongside wild horses sounds pretty dreamy, it’s extremely important to stay at least 40 feet away from them at all times. They look docile, but they can kick, bite, and charge. If you encounter a horse on the bike path, stop and enjoy from a safe distance, and patiently wait for them to move off to the side before continuing on your biking adventure.
One of the most iconic and vibrant biking opportunities along Maryland’s Coast would have to be the Ocean City boardwalk. This nearly 3-mile journey will delight all your senses with the views of the ocean the whole way, the sounds of crashing waves, the feeling of the salt air on your skin, the scents of Fisher’s Popcorn and Thrasher’s French Fries, and a whole wide range of places to stop for a bite to eat.
During peak summer season (between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends), bikes are only permitted on the boardwalk in the mornings, but outside the peak season, you’re free to cycle the boards at any time of the day. Don’t have your own bike? Rent one from Bike World or Dandy Don’s.
For a quieter ride in Ocean City, Northside Park offers short, paved trails that are particularly great for kids. The trails loop around ball fields, through playground and picnic areas, and across ponds.
If you’re looking for some cycling opportunities with more of a residential feel, head to Ocean Pines. All amenities and trails within this community are open to the public and it can be a great place to ride. There are several trails that welcome cyclists, including a scenic loop around the south gate pond and a longer excursion through the woods. There are even some short, beginner mountain biking trails at Bainbridge Park, perfect for children or anyone just learning to ride off-road.
Many cyclists also enjoy riding the length of Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines. You’ll have to share the road with traffic, but in most areas, the shoulder is fairly wide and the speed limit is 35 mph, making it a generally safe ride for more experienced cyclists. Bike rentals are available in Ocean Pines from Continental Cycles.
For a completely different cycling experience along Maryland’s Coast, the Pocomoke State Forest welcomes bikes on the state forest trails. It may sound silly to say that there are mountain biking trails anywhere on Maryland’s Eastern Shore since the terrain is generally flat, but the Pocomoke State Forest has the most extensive mountain bike trail network around! The Hudson-Tarr mountain biking trail system encompasses over 8 miles of single-track trails that wind through the towering loblolly pines and bald cypress swamp.
If the 8 miles of mountain bike trails aren’t enough and you’re really up for an adventure, all 25 miles of trails within the state forest allow bikes. Please note that motorized vehicles of any kind are not permitted, so leave the dirt bikes and ebikes at home.
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