Last updated: April 18, 2022
Thing to Do
Bring Your Own Bike
NPS Photo/Stella Carroll
Biking can be a great way to get around Cumberland Island, though conditions may make it tough to get around. The concession operated ferry does allow passengers to bring their own bike on the ferry for an additional $10 fee. Space is limited, so advance reservations are highly encouraged. Before you decide to bring your bike, make sure you are prepared for the day.
Bikes are only allowed along the main road, which is an unimproved sandy road. No trail riding is allowed on Cumberland Island. Road conditions can be variable, with prolonged dry weather leading to soft sand. After a rain the sand becomes packed down and is best for riding a bike. Generally, the further north you travel on the road, the worse the road gets.
Mountain bike tires are best suited to navigate the sandy roads. Road bikes are not well adapted, and hybrid tires will do OK if it has rained recently.
E-bikes are allowed on the island as long as they are pedal-assist only and are less than 1 hp (750 watts). E-bikes are allowed only along the main park road just like traditional bikes.
If you are planning on a ride to the northend of the island, make sure you bring enough water. Potable water north of Sea Camp can be found at Stafford Beach Campground and Plum Orchard only. Keep an eye on the time and assess your energy level throughout the ride. There is no transportation option that can get you back to the boat. It is your responsibility to get back to the boat on time.
Make your reservations for the ferry and your bike online.
Bikes are only allowed along the main road, which is an unimproved sandy road. No trail riding is allowed on Cumberland Island. Road conditions can be variable, with prolonged dry weather leading to soft sand. After a rain the sand becomes packed down and is best for riding a bike. Generally, the further north you travel on the road, the worse the road gets.
Mountain bike tires are best suited to navigate the sandy roads. Road bikes are not well adapted, and hybrid tires will do OK if it has rained recently.
E-bikes are allowed on the island as long as they are pedal-assist only and are less than 1 hp (750 watts). E-bikes are allowed only along the main park road just like traditional bikes.
If you are planning on a ride to the northend of the island, make sure you bring enough water. Potable water north of Sea Camp can be found at Stafford Beach Campground and Plum Orchard only. Keep an eye on the time and assess your energy level throughout the ride. There is no transportation option that can get you back to the boat. It is your responsibility to get back to the boat on time.
Make your reservations for the ferry and your bike online.
Details
Duration
2-6 Hours
Activity
Biking
Bikes are allowed on the main park roads only. Trail riding and riding across the cultural landscape is prohibited.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
Yes
The ferry concessionaire charges $10 per bike to bring it on the ferry.
All visitors 16 or older must pay the park entry fee or have an America the Beautiful pass with them. Fees can be paid on the island at self-pay stations located at each dock or in person at the Mainland Visitor Center. You may also pay your entrance fee in advance online at www.pay.gov.
All visitors 16 or older must pay the park entry fee or have an America the Beautiful pass with them. Fees can be paid on the island at self-pay stations located at each dock or in person at the Mainland Visitor Center. You may also pay your entrance fee in advance online at www.pay.gov.
Reservations
Yes
Reservations are required to bring your own bike on the ferry. Space is limited on the ferry. Make your reservations to bring your own bike online.
Season
Year Round
Accessibility Information
The main park road is a single-lane, sandy road. Conditions can be variable depending on how dry it has been. Conditons are best after a rainfall. The road can become soft and rutted the further north you travel.