Features

The Phoenix Bike Trail in Fairhaven offers bicyclists more than four miles of paved pathways to discover. The bike path is flat and mostly tucked away from major traffic areas, which makes it perfect for outdoor explorers of all ages and abilities – from young families to active adults.

Want a longer exploration? The Phoenix Bike Trail links seamlessly with the Mattapoisett Rail Trail, creating an additional mile of bike path to Mattapoisett Neck Road. Both trails are also part of the South Coast Bikeway, a growing regional system of bike paths through southeastern Massachusetts.

For hikers, the Phoenix Bike Trail is a gateway to miles of walking trails through Nasketucket Bay State Reservation. Start at Shaw Farm Trail, located just past Shaw Road near the Mattapoisett town line, and begin a journey that will take you to the rocky shores of Nasketucket Bay. Even bicyclists can get in a walk here – just lock up your bike at the rack at the trailhead, and you’ll be on your way!

The Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride runs along the Phoenix Bike Path in Fairhaven for part of its 75-mile route.

Trails

The Phoenix Bike Trail runs west to east for approximately 3.5 miles. With the additional mile on the Mattapoisett Rail Trail and another mile-long extension that snakes down to Little Bay, you can bike, walk, or jog for over five miles on this flat, easy path. (Download trail map)

Beginning at the parking area on Main Street, take the bike path through residential neighborhoods to busy Sconticut Neck Road. There’s a traffic signal and marked crosswalk here, but please take caution when crossing the road. The bike path continues past homes, farms, and forest to the Mattapoisett town line, where it transitions into the Mattapoisett Rail Trail.

Just east of Sconticut Neck Road at Arsene Street lies the Little Bay Extension, a north-south path that runs for about one mile to the marshy shores of Little Bay. We recommend you explore this offshoot, which passes through the protected land of Little Bay Conservation Area. Pause at the pier overlooking Little Bay to enjoy the spectacular water views and peaceful hum of life along the coast.

Habitats & Wildlife

The Phoenix Bike Trail packs a diverse amount of scenery into its relatively short length. From the forests of Nasketucket Bay State Reservation to the salt marshes of Little Bay, you’ll experience the best of Fairhaven’s natural beauty from this path. These coastal habitats are thriving ecosystems where countless birds, fish, and shellfish species live.

Some sections of the bike path pass through residential and business neighborhoods. These areas are more developed, but they’re not short on wildlife. Look for birds like cardinals, sparrows, and black-capped chickadees flitting through the trees. On the ground, watch for rabbits and other small mammals darting among the grass.

Property Owned By

Town of Fairhaven