Assabet River Dam – Assabet River Rail Trail loop from Crow Island Airpark
Assabet River Dam – Assabet River Rail Trail loop from Crow Island Airpark
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Assabet River Dam – Assabet River Rail Trail loop from Crow Island Airpark
02:13
36.1km
220m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 9, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 24.9 km for 56 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
521 m
Assabet River Dam
Highlight • Structure
Over its 31-mile route, more than 40 bridges span it.
Tip by
15.8 km
Assabet River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
16.5 km
Assabet River Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
18.8 km
Marlborough
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
27.8 km
Albertini/Meers Conservation Area
Nature Reserve
31.2 km
Pine Point Lot
Nature Reserve
32.1 km
Along the Assabet National Wildlife Refuge
Highlight • Natural
A wide variety of migratory birds, mammals, plants, reptiles and amphibians can be found here.
Tip by
36.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.6 km
14.6 km
3.03 km
2.57 km
253 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
32.6 km
2.91 km
514 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (140 m)
Lowest point (50 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 29 June
31°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that blends natural beauty with historical charm and a bit of varied terrain, the Assabet River Dam – Assabet River Rail Trail loop from Crow Island Airpark is a solid choice. This moderate 22.4-mile (36.1 km) route, with 738 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 13 minutes, making it ideal for cyclists comfortable with mixed surfaces and looking to explore the Assabet River Rail Trail's diverse offerings.
What to expect on Assabet River Dam – Assabet River Rail Trail loop from Crow Island Airpark
Starting your ride from Crow Island Airpark immediately immerses you in the natural beauty of the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll encounter the 1.9-mile unpaved "Track Road" section of the trail. This dirt and gravel segment offers a scenic escape through forested areas and wetlands, leading to multiple crossings over the tranquil Assabet River. As you continue, the trail transitions to smooth asphalt, guiding you through historic mill towns like Maynard and Hudson, where you can glimpse renovated 19th-century buildings and even an overlook of the Fort Meadow Reservoir. The moderate difficulty comes from navigating both the unpaved sections and a necessary 2-mile road connector to complete the loop, so it's best suited for touring cyclists who appreciate a dynamic ride and aren't afraid to get a little dusty.
Planning your visit
Accessing the Assabet River Rail Trail from Crow Island Airpark is straightforward, with parking available right at the start. Given the mix of paved and unpaved sections, a hybrid or gravel bike is highly recommended for the most comfortable experience, though road bikes can manage the dirt and gravel with caution. The route passes through towns like Maynard and Hudson, offering convenient access to cafes and other amenities if you need a break or refreshment. Plan your ride to enjoy the varied landscapes and historical points of interest along the way.
Trail details
- Distance: 22.4 miles (36.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 738 feet (225 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 13 minutes
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