Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Minuteman Bikeway
Cycling
5.0
(145)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
December 23, 2024
Cycling
July 4, 2020
Cycling
•
August 28, 2023
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Minuteman Bikeway
4.8
(20)
361
riders
32.9km
01:52
120m
120m
Cycle the Minuteman Bikeway, an easy touring route that takes you through a pleasant mix of natural beauty and historical sites. This paved path spans 20.4 miles (32.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 396 feet (121 metres), making for a relaxed ride. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 52 minutes. As you pedal, you'll pass through charming wooded corridors, quiet neighborhoods, and vibrant village centers. Keep an eye out for the serene waters of Spy Pond in Arlington and the historically significant Lexington Battle Green, where Revolutionary War history comes alive.
The Minuteman Bikeway is generally accessible year-round, with the Lexington section often plowed during winter months. Be aware that the trail can become quite busy, especially with commuters during peak hours on weekdays and pedestrians enjoying the path on weekends. You will find convenient access to refreshments and public toilets at various points along the route, including Depot Park in Bedford and the Lexington Visitor's Center.
This trail is notable for its unique blend of natural scenery and significant historical landmarks, offering a journey through Massachusetts' past. It follows the path of the former Lexington and West Cambridge Railroad, connecting several towns that played pivotal roles in the American Revolution. The route provides a distinct opportunity to experience both the tranquility of nature and the echoes of history in one continuous ride.
4.8
(20)
266
riders
44.3km
02:51
130m
130m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Minuteman Bikeway and Reformatory Branch Trail, covering 27.5 miles (44.3 km) with a gentle 438 feet (134 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a diverse experience, blending the smooth, paved surfaces of the Minuteman Bikeway, which passes historical sites like the Lexington Battle Green, with the more rugged, unpaved sections of the Reformatory Branch Trail. You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 51 minutes, enjoying varied terrain and scenery throughout.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the Minuteman Bikeway is well-maintained and accessible, the unpaved Reformatory Branch Trail can become muddy with soft dirt after rain. For the best experience on the unpaved sections, a cross-terrain or mountain bike is highly recommended. You will find amenities like restaurants and bike shops conveniently located near the paved bikeway. Remember that cycling is not permitted within the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge itself, which the trail skirts.
This trail uniquely combines a journey through significant Revolutionary War history with an immersion into serene natural beauty. You will transition from suburban landscapes to quieter, natural settings, skirting conservation areas and offering views of the Great Meadow Park Common Land. It provides a fascinating contrast between historical exploration and a nature-focused adventure, making it a notable route for those seeking both cultural insight and outdoor activity.
4.5
(6)
150
riders
74.6km
04:18
280m
280m
Embark on a touring cycling adventure from the Arnold Arboretum to Bedford, covering a moderate 46.3 miles (74.6 km) with an elevation gain of 907 feet (276 metres). This route offers a diverse journey, transitioning from urban streets to the peaceful, paved Minuteman Bikeway. As you pedal, you'll pass through wooded corridors and suburban landscapes, enjoying the smooth ride of the rail trail. Keep an eye out for the expansive Great Meadows, known for its seasonal wildflowers, adding a splash of natural beauty to your ride. The entire touring cycling trip is estimated to take around 4 hours and 17 minutes, providing a rewarding day out on two wheels.
To begin your touring cycling journey, you will navigate Boston city streets from the Arnold Arboretum to connect with the Minuteman Bikeway near Alewife MBTA Station. The bikeway itself is flat and well-maintained, making for an easy ride once you are on it. Be aware that the Minuteman Bikeway can become quite busy, especially during peak commuting hours and on weekends with recreational users. Along the route, you will find various services, including places to eat and bike shops, so you can plan your stops accordingly.
This touring cycling route traces a path through historically significant towns, allowing you to cycle through areas central to American history. You will follow parts of Paul Revere's famous ride and pass by the Lexington Battle Green, where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired. The trail also winds through conservation lands, offering glimpses of local wildlife and natural habitats. This unique blend of history, nature, and urban connection makes the route a notable experience for any touring cyclist.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.68 km
Uphill 0 m
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Friday 8 May
16°C
4°C
28 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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