Are you looking for new bike routes to explore in Boston? Urban cyclists who live near Beantown should add these seven incredible cycling paths to their bucket lists. Mark up your city map, then jump on your 21 speed bike and get going.
Deer Island
If you don’t mind taking a quick ferry ride, you’ll love this state park area in the Boston Harbor. Deer Island features 60 acres of pristine park land and nearly 5 miles of bike paths to explore, including a 2.6-mile path along the waterfront. While you’re there, you can have a picnic, browse the island’s historic structures and learn more about harbor history, scenic overlooks, restrooms, and a visitors center.
The Emerald Necklace
Head to the Arnold Arboretum to access this gorgeous 25-mile bike path. Not only will you enjoy unmatched scenery on the winding route through lush gardens and nature preserves, you’ll also explore several of the most notable landmarks in the city. Visit the official website for this bike path to learn more about the 1,100 acres of parkland. You can also download a PDF map that makes navigating the Emerald Necklace a breeze.
Jamaica Pond
Although the path around the pond is just under 3 miles, it ranks as one of the most serene experiences in the greater Boston area. The cyclist path is separate from the pedestrian path here, which you may prefer if you plan to pick up speed. The pond route connects with Olmsted Park so you can extend your outdoor experience by taking a 9-mile path out to Leverett Park. Along your way, you can refill your water and use the restroom. In the summer, don’t miss the free concerts at Jamaica Pond.
Millennium Park
This popular spot for bikers has it all, including 6 miles of trails with downtown and Charles River vistas. For a longer ride, you can use connector trails to access nearby Nahanton Park in Newton for boat rentals, fishing and birding. Here, you can get on the Lower Neponset River Trail for a 5-mile waterfront ride from Dorchester to Milton.
Park Dudley White Bike Path
Commonly called simply the Charles River Bike Path, this route provides more than 13 miles of waterfront access. Although it’s sometimes busy on the path, it’s worth the crowds to take in the views of the river through Boston, Cambridge and Watertown. Explore bikes for men and women to find the perfect cycle for this urban favorite, then head to the Museum of Science to access the trail head.
Minuteman Bikeway
For a more private experience with a healthy dose of Boston colonial heritage, jump on this 11-mile rail trail. The route from Lexington to Arlington is almost identical to the route Paul Revere famously took on his historic midnight ride.
Stony Brook Reservation
Locals love this scenic spot, which features nearly 500 acres of parkland and ponds. Cyclists can explore the area with 12 miles of paths through the reservation. You’ll also find fishing, a swimming pool, a tennis court, and picnic areas. To access to reservation, head to West Roxbury.
Spring is here, so it’s the perfect time to shop bikes for women and men and plan your Boston bike excursion on one or more of these incredible routes.
