Local Bike Trails and Routes: Explore the Beauty of Boston on Two Wheels

Boston is known for being an excellent place to bike, and for good reason: in addition to cyclist-friendly rules and layouts, it also offers a network of diverse trails, with options ranging from the scenic to the seriously challenging.

Whether you’re looking for something casual or a demanding ride that will push your limits, there's always a perfect route waiting for you somewhere in Boston. You just have to find it!

For convenience, we’ve listed a few of our favorites below. Check them all out for an excellent sampling of the cycling our city has to offer.

Moderate and Scenic:

The following options are perfect for those seeking a casual, scenic experience.

Charles River Bike Path: This paved path is a Boston classic. It stretches for about 24.9 miles along the Charles River, offering stunning water views and easy riding. Perfect for families and leisure cyclists, but not ideal for road bikes due to some bumpy patches.
Emerald Necklace: This interconnected park system features a network of paved paths, perfect for a leisurely ride. Explore the Boston Common, the Back Bay Fens, and the Arnold Arboretum, all at a relaxed pace.
Minuteman Bikeway: This mostly flat, multi-use trail of 10.1 miles follows a historic route used by colonists during the Revolutionary War. It's an excellent option for a car-free exploration of history and nature.

A Little Tougher, But Just as Beautiful!

Want to combine beautiful locales with a bit of sweat, too? These rides are for you:

Southwest Corridor Park: Following the path of the old Boston Elevated Railway route, this car-free option of 4.1 miles winds through several Boston neighborhoods. Enjoy some gentle inclines and a mix of urban and park scenery, but be prepared for some bumps and cracked pavement to keep you on your toes.
Neponset River Greenway Trail: A South Boston favorite, this trail runs for about 8.2 miles through the Neponset River valley. Stunning scenery combines with a steady paced path, for an engaging and gorgeous ride.

Challenging Rides and Mountain Biking:

Not for the faint of heart, these rides will push your limits and get your pulse pounding every time.

Breakheart Reservation: Located northwest of Boston, Breakheart Reservation offers challenging inclines and breathtaking views. Its “techy” trails reward difficult climbing with some of the best descents in the region. Rugged terrain makes this ride ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a workout.
Blue Hills Reservation: Blue Hills offers some of the most demanding cycling terrain in the Boston vicinity. 20 minutes or so will take you from the city to steep climbs and technical descents on this massive trail system, which is sure to exhilarate and challenge any cyclist.