Biking in Nantucket

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Biking

The best way to tour Nantucket is by bicycle. Nearly 28 mi of paved bike paths wind through all types of terrain from one end of the island to the other; it is possible to bike around the entire island in a day. Most paths start within 1/2 mi of town, and all are well marked. Several lead to beaches. And if you're without your wheels, it's easy enough to rent some. The paths are also perfect for runners and bladers -- but not mopeds, which are forbidden. Note that Nantucket now requires all bike riders -- including adults -- to wear a helmet.

The easy 3-mi Surfside Bike Path leads to Surfside, the island's premier ocean beach. A drinking fountain and rest stop are placed at about the halfway point.

Milestone Bike Path, a straight shot linking Nantucket Town and 'Sconset, is probably the most monotonous of the paths but can still be quite pleasant. It's about 7 mi -- paired with the scenic Polpis Path, it becomes a 16-mi island loop.

At 1.2 mi, the Cliff Road Path, on the north shore, is one of the easiest bike paths, but it's still quite scenic, with gentle hills. It intersects with the Eel Point and Madaket paths.

The Eel Point/Dionis Beach Path starts at the junction of Eel Point Road and Madaket Road and links the Cliff Road and Madaket bike paths to Dionis Beach. It's less than a mile long.

The Madaket Path starts at the intersection of Quaker and Upper Main Street and follows Madaket Road out to Madaket Beach, on the island's west end and about 6 mi from the edge of Nantucket Town. About one-third of the way, you could turn off onto Cliff Road Path or the Eel Point/Dionis Beach Path.

Young's Bicycle Shop (6 Broad St., Steamboat Wharf. 508/228-1151. www.youngsbicycleshop.com), established in 1931, rents bicycles, including tandems and children's equipment; weekly rates are available. The knowledgeable third-generation Young family and staff will send you off with everything you need -- an excellent touring map, a helmet, and a quaint little Portuguese basket for your handlebars.

The 6 1/2-mi 'Sconset Bike Path starts at the rotary east of Nantucket Town and parallels Milestone Road, ending in 'Sconset. It is mostly level, with some gentle hills.