Can You Bike the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel? No—Here's Why and What to Do Instead

No, bicycles are strictly prohibited on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT). This 17.6-mile crossing (bridges, tunnels, trestles) connecting Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore is a toll facility designated exclusively for motorized vehicles.

Why the Ban?

• Safety: Narrow lanes, no shoulders, high winds, and 55-60 mph traffic create extreme danger for cyclists.
• Tunnels: The two 1-mile tunnels (Thimble Shoals, Chesapeake Channel) have no ventilation for human-powered traffic; vehicle exhaust would be hazardous.
• Structural Design: The facility was engineered for vehicle loads, not pedestrian/bike access points.

Alternatives for Cyclists

1. Ferry (Seasonal): The Virginia Breeze ferry (or similar seasonal services) may transport bikes across the Bay—check current schedules.
2. Ride the Shore: Explore the Eastern Shore's scenic backroads (US-13, VA-184) via vehicle transport.
3. Local Trails: Enjoy the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, First Landing State Park trails, or the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge trails on each side.

Pedestrians?

Also prohibited. The CBBT is a highway facility (US-13), not a recreational path. Annual "Bridge-Tunnel Walk/Run" events are the sole exceptions.