Pedal Around Narragansett Bay with Rail Explorers

Part bike, part railcar, these whimsically named “explorers” traverse the railways along the Narragansett Bay at a hands-free, leisurely pace. Once you and your fellow pedal-ers get over the thrill of testing the speed of these bad boys (while keeping a safe distance between cars, of course), you might even forget you’re pedaling at all. Starting at the Portsmouth Depot, you can choose between the one-way Northern Ramble route passing private waterfront estates, or the Southern Circuit, an out-and-back journey with a waterfront picnic area at the Bayside Station midway through. But for an authentic autumn experience, your best bet is the lantern-lit Fireside Tour, which is the Southern Circuit route, only at twilight, and reimagined this year for socially distanced camaraderie over private fire pits.

“We used to offer s’mores,” explains owner and founder Mary Joy Lu. “Now, you can BYO-s’mores!” And if you forget, individual kits will be available to purchase before you hop on your rail bike. Masks and distance ensure safety at the loading station and bikes are wiped down for each guest. The ride itself is a mask-free voyage with cars spread far enough apart, you likely won’t see another member of the fleet until pedaling into the campfire site. Fall, especially, reveals unique views along the way.  “Once the leaves come off a lot of the trees, you get even more access to the view of the Narragansett Bay. The things you came and saw in the summer will be different,” says Lu. “It’s very romantic. It’s a perfect date night or a perfect little family recreational outing.” Reserve an autumn tour online before you visit.