The Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride returns for its 17th year on Sunday, Oct. 2. 

The annual bike ride to raise funds for the Buzzards Bay Coalition includes a 35, 75, or 100-mile route that winds past coastal farmlands, beaches, cranberry bogs, and scenic harbors on the way to Woods Hole, where all cyclists finish the ride.

Routes start in Little Compton, RI, Westport, and Rochester.

This year, 100 mile riders start at 7:30 a.m., half an hour earlier than in the past. Riders doing the 75 and 35 mile journeys will start at the same times as previously, 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. respectively.

For 100 and 75 mile riders, the last five miles will take you on a different route through Falmouth to the regular finish line in Woods Hole. Riders on the 35-mile route remain on the Shining Sea Bikeway as in previous years.

Funds go to support the Buzzards Bay Coalition in its mission to reduce pollution and keep the water in Buzzards Bay clean.

More than 300 cyclists participate in the Watershed Ride each year, pedaling through 11 coastal communities and passing more than 3,300 acres of conservation land protected by the Buzzards Bay Coalition and other conservation organizations.

Cyclists are supported with a food truck lunch stop, water and snack stations every 20 miles, bike mechanics, and shuttles for both people and bikes. 

Each rider will also receive a modern cut event t-shirt and a signature 2022 "Bike for Clean Water" finisher's pint glass, plus additional swag for top fundraisers and teams.

This year, riders may now choose to pay a discounted fee to sign up. To do so, use one of the codes provided during registration. You can also sponsor another rider by making an additional gift. All riders must still meet the $300 fundraising minimum.

To learn more or sign up for the ride, visit www.savebuzzardsbay.org/ride.