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Minuteman Bikeway – Reformatory Branch Trail loop from Mary Cummings Park

Minuteman Bikeway – Reformatory Branch Trail loop from Mary Cummings Park

Moderate

2.5

(23)

riders

Minuteman Bikeway – Reformatory Branch Trail loop from Mary Cummings Park

03:05

52.3km

280m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: July 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

5.92 km

Minuteman Bikeway

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Minuteman Bikeway is a 10-mile paved rail-trail in Greater Boston, which follows the historic path of the 1775 American Revolution's beginnings. Stretching from Bedford to the Alewife Station in Cambridge, the bikeway passes through Lexington and Arlington, connecting bikers and pedestrians to subways and bus lines, all while reducing local car traffic. Popular for recreation as well as transportation, it features landmarks like Alewife Brook Reservation, Spy Pond, the Lexington Battle Green, and Arlington’s Great Meadows.

Tip by

7.77 km

Bedford Railroad Depot

Highlight • Historical Site

interesssing for railway fans

Tip by

9.12 km

Start of Reformatory Branch Trail

Highlight • Trail

Any gravel bike or a road bike with gravel tires will do.

Tip by

11.1 km

Reformatory Branch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Reformatory Branch Trail stretches 3.9 miles through Middlesex County, connecting the historic towns of Bedford and Concord along a dirt path. This rail trail, built in 1873 by the Boston & Lowell Railroad, offers activities like mountain biking, walking, and cross-country skiing in winter. It begins at Depot Park, near the North Bridge, site of the "shot heard round the world." Along the way, the trail passes through wildlife refuges, including the Elm Brook Conservation Area and the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, which are home to over 220 bird species and other wildlife. While the trail's rough conditions make it ideal for foot or mountain bike/gravel bike travel. The trail concludes at Lowell Road, where nearby parking and restrooms are available.

Tip by

12.3 km

Great Meadow Park Common Land

Highlight • Viewpoint

Here is a beautiful view of the Great Meadows. This National Wildlife Refuge, is one of the eight sanctuaries that make up the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge complex.

This reserve offers visitors many landscapes and habitats to explore while enjoying many activities throughout the year such as hiking, snowshoeing, fishing, hunting and boating on the Sudbury and Concord Rivers.

Tip by

12.6 km

Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge – Concord Unit

Highlight • Natural

The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a 12-mile wetland conservation area and home to a large variety of birds and turtles. A well-maintained trail circles the pond's perimeter with marshes and beautiful lotuses that bloom in summer. There are a few short trails and a path leading to the Concord River with benches, which are ideal for relaxing and taking in the scenery. It's a favorite spot for families and photographers, with an observation tower that provides excellent views. Parking is free but limited, with clean restrooms (closed in winter) and a port-a-potty available.

Tip by

13.6 km

Reformatory Branch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Reformatory Branch Trail, ideal for gravel bikes connects the historic towns of Bedford and Concord along a nearly 4-mile dirt road through wildlife refuges that ends a short distance from the North Bridge.

Tip by

14.0 km