3.2
(14)
60
hikers
07:51
30.6km
130m
Hiking
The Minuteman Bikeway offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a popular choice for a long day out. This 19.0 miles (30.6 km) hiking route, rated difficult due to its length and 7 hours and 51 minutes duration, features a mostly flat, paved surface with…
Last updated: June 10, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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12.2 km
Arlington's Great Meadows
Nature Reserve
15.3 km
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
15.3 km
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
16.3 km
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
16.5 km
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
19.1 km
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
19.5 km
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
24.2 km
Arlington Reservoir
Lake
25.0 km
Covenant Church
Place Of Worship
27.5 km
Highrock Church
Place Of Worship
28.7 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
30.3 km
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
30.3 km
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
30.4 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
30.6 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
22.9 km
3.27 km
2.30 km
1.85 km
109 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
14.6 km
8.94 km
4.25 km
1.32 km
1.16 km
308 m
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Elevation
Highest point (70 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 11 July
28°C
18°C
25 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail offers numerous access points and parking areas along its route, particularly in towns like Bedford, Lexington, and Arlington. It also connects to public transportation at the Alewife MBTA station, providing convenient access.
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is always kept on a leash, and remember to clean up after your pet to keep the path enjoyable for everyone.
The trail offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Summer provides lush greenery, while fall is particularly beautiful with colorful foliage. It can be enjoyed year-round, though it may be more crowded on weekends and during peak commuting hours.
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Minuteman Bikeway itself. As part of the Freedom's Way National Heritage Area, the trail is freely accessible to the public.
The trail is primarily a paved rail trail, offering a largely flat surface with only gradual grades. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, including hikers, walkers, and those using wheelchairs.
The trail features a diverse landscape, from natural beauty to charming townscapes. You can see historical sites like the Lexington Battle Green and The Lafayette Trail, as well as natural points of interest such as Spy Pond and the Alewife Brook Reservation. It also passes through Downtown Lexington.
Yes, the Minuteman Bikeway is well-connected. At its Bedford end, it links to the Narrow Gauge Rail-Trail and the Reformatory Branch Rail Trail. At its Cambridge terminus, it connects to the Fitchburg Cutoff Path and the Somerville Community Path, which extends towards downtown Boston. The route also passes through sections of the Minuteman Bikeway (76%), ALC ACROSS Lexington Route C (23%), ACROSS Lexington Route A (18%), ACROSS Lexington Route E (16%), and ACROSS Lexington Route L (12%).
Absolutely. The trail is consistently rated as "easy" due to its paved and mostly flat surface, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels, including leisurely strolls, invigorating walks, and wheelchair users.
Yes, along its route, hikers can find various amenities, including restrooms, benches, and designated parking areas. As it passes through towns like Bedford, Lexington, and Arlington, you'll also have access to shops and food vendors.
No, the Minuteman Bikeway is primarily an out-and-back trail, spanning approximately 10 to 11 miles one-way from Bedford to Alewife Station in Cambridge. You can turn around at any point to customize your distance.
While the trail is generally easy, it can become quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak commuting hours. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during off-peak times to enjoy the scenery with fewer people.
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