Walk, Run, or Cycle: The Bermuda Railway Trail National Park

THE PATH'S ORIGINS

The trail's origins go back to a time when the Bermuda Railway was the primary means of transportation for islanders. The train, known as the "Old Rattle and Shake," operated from 1931 to 1948, running from St. George's Station in the east to Somerset Station in the west. In 1964, the remaining right of way was transformed into a trail for walkers and cyclists. The trail was designated as a National Park in 1986 and is maintained by the Bermuda Parks Department. Learn more about the trail's history. Today, 18 of the railway's original 22 miles are accessible to the public, providing an unparalleled way to experience the island's natural beauty and serenity.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: TRAIL TIPS

The trail is divided into nine sections ranging between 1 mile and 3¾ miles long and traversing the parishes of Bermuda. You can start from either end or enter at various points along the way. The terrain varies, ranging from flat, paved stretches to sections with steeper slopes and bridges that make cycling more challenging. By pedal bike, you can cover more of the Railway Trail, but be aware that the trail is not continuous. Some sections are interrupted by busy roadway intersections, and along the path itself you may encounter old bridges, steps, and other features you'll have to navigate by foot. As you plan your journey, be sure to leave plenty of time for meandering, and don't forget your camera. Hidden, photo-worthy gems along the way include intimate beaches, panoramic ocean views and an old drawbridge. Lush, fragrant trees, plants and flowers line the pathway.

RECOMMENDED TRIPS

Cycle the West End from Dockyard to Hog Bay Park

Ride the ferry to the Royal Naval Dockyard. Adventure lovers can make a day of it by biking the six miles from rental shop Oleander Cycles in Dockyard to the ancient lime kiln and abandoned cottages at Hog Bay Park, an untouched 32 acres. Stop for pies at Baxter’s, a family-run kitchen on Scott’s Hill Road. Climb the hill to historic Scaur Hill Fort Park and take in views of Ely’s Harbour – perfect for watching the sunset – and the Great Sound, an excellent spot to watch the sunrise. To get to Hog Bay, cross Somerset Bridge, the world’s smallest working drawbridge. Check the tides; the park sits on a steep coastal hillside that slopes down to Black Bay; a small beach that becomes fully submerged during high tide.

Hike (or Run) the East End from Hamilton Parish to Coney Island

Enter the trail from the foot of Crawl Hill gas station and work your way to Coney Island, where until 1871 a horse-drawn ferry connected St. George’s to the mainland.
A quiet three miles, away from traffic noise, the trail reaches a high bluff overlooking the ocean. There are well-spaced benches along the trail and a dock in front of Francis Patton school where the brave can access the water via a ladder. At dusk the sea comes alive with fish visible from the bridges.
Breathe in the wild fennel, pass old slipways and protected 17th-century ruins, visit a small beach and stop by Swizzle Inn or Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour across the road. Bermuda’s natural caves are nearby and also well worth a visit.

Stroll the North Shore from Devonshire to Smith's 

For dramatic coastal views spanning the North Shore to Royal Naval Dockyard, enter the trail from Palmetto Road by Ocean View Golf Course for a safe three-mile walk over four bridges.
This section of the trail is edged by Bermuda’s only major dairy farm before reaching a deep cut where the soft limestone was hand-carved for the narrow-gauge railway, thought to be the most expensive (per mile) railroad of its time. Peek through hedges at carefully restored old Bermuda cottages on your way to Flatt’s Inlet, a shallow and sheltered beach perfect for a refreshing plunge.
On North Shore Road you can catch a bus or walk carefully along the roadside for about 10 more minutes to Flatt’s Village. Here, you can pay a visit to The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo and have lunch at a neighbourhood favourite like Village Pantry or Rustico.