NEW BEDFORD — Fall is the perfect time to pedal through the fresh air and stunning landscapes of Southeastern Massachusetts.

Those who love to ride, and want to support an organization keeping the environment fresh and stunning, can sign up for the 18th Annual Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride on Sunday, Oct. 6

Registration is now open at https://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/ride. Participants can choose their own adventure form the 100-mile, 75-mile or 35-mile overlapping cycling routes that wind past coastal farmlands, windswept beaches, cranberry bogs and scenic harbors between Rhode Island and Cape Cod. Each route passes through Wareham, and all routes culminate in a festive finish line celebration in Woods Hold overlooking Buzzards Bay.

The route starts at Little Compton, in Rhode Island, before passing through Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fairhaven, Acushnet, Mattapoisett, Rochester, Wareham, Bourne and Falmouth before ending in Woods Hole. The 100-mile route begins at Sakonnet Point in Little Compton, the 75-nile route begins at Horseneck Beach State Reservation in Westport and the 35-mile route begins at Eastover Farm in Rochester. 

The ride raises funds for the protection and restoration of Buzzards Bay, helping to support the work of the Buzzards Bay Coalition. Each rider commits to raising a minimum of $300 for the Coalition’s work to improve the health of the Bay ecosystem through scientific research, land protection, advocacy and fostering outdoor exploration. For a $65 registration fee, participants enjoy five water stops, a hearty lunch, a post-ride party with live music, food trucks and beer. All riders receive an event tee and a 2024 finisher’s pint glass, with additional prizes for top fundraisers and teams.