Bike to Plum Orchard

Biking to Plum Orchard can be a rewarding experience, but know what to expect before you go.

Plum Orchard Mansion is a wonderful historic resource preserved by the National Park Service. Construction started in 1898 by the Carnegies, and the house grew to 22,000 square feet over the next decade. Getting to Plum Orchard can be tricky as it is located halfway up the island, or 7.5 miles from the Sea camp dock.  

It is an estimated roundtrip of 8-10 hours from Sea Camp for those on foot (not recommended for day visitors). Biking can make this 14-mile round trip feasible for a day visit to the island. If you plan to bike to Plum Orchard, get an early start. Plan on the visit taking between 3- 5 hours. If you’re on the 11:45 AM ferry, a trip to Plum Orchard is not recommended. Water is available at Sea Camp, Stafford Beach Campground, and Plum Orchard. Make sure to bring enough for the ride, or stop at Stafford Beach on the way. 

Bikes are allowed on the Main Road only, which is a sandy road. During dry periods and in the hot summer months, this can be a hard bike ride. The road is not paved, and the sand can be soft in places, especially the Stafford area. Take a break at Stafford to judge how you’re feeling. Stafford is half way to Plum Orchard, or one quarter of your overall trip. Keep in mind, once you get to Plum Orchard, you have to get back on your own. There are no rides to or from the house.  

Once at Plum Orchard, treated drinking water is available from hose faucets on the side of the house. Bathrooms are available around the back of the house and up the stairs on the rear porch. Please do not bikes on the grass. Stick to the paths. 

Tours of the mansion are available daily at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. The tours take about 45 minutes. Wait on the front porch for the docent to begin the tour. Tours include the first and second floors and basement.

**COVID-19 Update: Plum Orchard Mansion Tours have resumed at Reduced Capacity. Check the Current Conditions page for more details.** 

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

This is a 15-mile round trip. Plan on the visit taking between 3- 5 hours.

Activity

Biking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on the ferry, but are allowed on private boats. They must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your pet and pack out the waste.

Activity Fee

Yes

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

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

The main road is an unimproved sand road. Thin tire bikes are not recommended.