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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Massachusetts
Middlesex County
Maynard

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail – Acton loop from Maynard

Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Massachusetts
Middlesex County
Maynard

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail – Acton loop from Maynard

Easy

3.2

(30)

55

riders

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail – Acton loop from Maynard

01:41

40.1km

170m

Road cycling

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 19, 2026

Tips

The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 18.4 km for 192 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

5.28 km

Morse Road Parcel

Nature Reserve

2

7.36 km

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail is a nice, wide paved path that runs through several communities from Lowell to Framingham and follows the 25-mile route of the old New Haven Railroad Framingham & Lowell line. It's a fantastic scenic route that passes various beautiful landscapes and charming small ponds and is widely popular for cyclists, hikers, and runners.

Tip by

3

11.3 km

4

14.8 km

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Marker

Highlight • Cycleway

Acton was founded in 1639. During the American Revolutionary War, The town hired soldiers to fight the English.

The Faulkner House testifies to the rich past of the city. It is the oldest colonial-era structure still standing in the area. It is located at 5 High Street and is definitely worth a look.

Acton is also interesting for its many natural sites.

Tip by

5

15.0 km

When it comes to autumn colours, Ice House Pond in Acton is simply like a picture postcard. Served by the nearby Bruce Freeman Rail Trail and a plethora of hiking trails, this is a beautiful and tranquil place to be.

Tip by

6

18.5 km

The Nashoba Brook Stone Chamber is in the Nashoba Brook Conservation Area in Acton, Massachusetts, and is an underground stone structure commonly referred to as the "potato cave." This name originates from the belief that it once functioned as a root cellar. Excavations in 2006 support this view, indicating construction during the 18th or 19th century for food storage. However, some theories propose it was actually much older, positing it was originally a pre-colonial Native American ceremonial stone landscape structure. Local lore also suggests it provided shelter for 19th-century railroad workers. The restored chamber is part of Acton's "Trail Through Time," which highlights the historical use of the Nashoba Brook area

Tip by

7

22.2 km

Acton

Highlight • Settlement

Acton was founded in 1639. During the American Revolutionary War, The town hired soldiers to fight the English.

The Faulkner House testifies to the rich past of the city. It is the oldest colonial-era structure still standing in the area. It is located at 5 High Street and is definitely worth a look.

Acton is also interesting for its many natural sites.

Tip by

B

40.1 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

25.5 km

13.8 km

495 m

217 m

129 m

Surfaces

33.6 km

6.14 km

217 m

129 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Today

Sunday 5 July

29°C

19°C

18 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Description

If you're looking for a smooth, easy road cycling route that offers diverse scenery without much effort, the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail – Acton loop from Maynard is definitely worth your time. This easy 24.9 miles (40.1 km) road cycling route, with a gentle 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hours and 41 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed ride or a first big day out on the bike.

What to expect on Bruce Freeman Rail Trail – Acton loop from Maynard

The route takes you through a pleasant mix of wooded areas, open fields, and past wetlands, offering a constantly changing backdrop. You'll enjoy views of Ice House Pond and the peaceful woods, especially lovely during autumn foliage. The trail is fully paved and wide, making for a comfortable ride, though you should be mindful of road crossings, particularly in town centers. The recent bridge over Route 2 is a real highlight, seamlessly connecting sections of the trail and enhancing the overall experience. This trail is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, including beginners, who want a scenic and mostly car-free ride.

Planning your visit

While the trail is generally car-free, pay close attention to signage at road crossings, especially in places like Chelmsford's central intersection. There's also a brief pedestrian zone in West Concord Center where you'll need to dismount and walk your bike. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted, which is a nice bonus for those who prefer a little assistance. For those without their own bikes, the Minuteman Regional Bike Share program has stations along the BFRT, including in Acton and Maynard. The trail is well-maintained with clear signage and benches for rests.

Trail details

  • Distance: 24.9 miles (40.1 km)
  • Elevation gain: 564 feet (172 metres)
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 41 minutes

Nearby routes

Moderate

4.8

857

Minuteman Bikeway

02:01h

50.0km

190m

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