Minuteman Bikeway: The Perfect New England Fall Ride

Yellow foliage along the Minuteman bike trail

Massachusetts sees some of the most brilliant fall color in all of New England, which is no short feat considering the entire Northeast region is so gorgeous this time of year. Since moving here, I am basically out and about every weekend searching for new hotspots for leaf peeping. Mike and I have hiked at so many gorgeous preserves and biked so many beautiful tree-lined trails since moving to the Providence metro.

One of our favorite leaf peeping adventures thus far has been our ride along the Minuteman rail trail. This scenic 10.5 mile paved path passes through 4 different beautiful cities, all known for their spectacular fall foliage. The course starts at Bedford and ends at Cambridge (those wishing to continue on can connect to the Charles River trail in Cambridge).

This is one of the more popular rail trails in the state. Rail trails are basically multi purpose recreational paths which run along a former railroad course. I didn’t know what they were before moving here, but I can I am now a fan. Most of them are pretty flat, and thus, enjoyed by walkers, bikers, and joggers. This is one of the best rail trails in the state, second only to the CCRT in my experience.

It’s a historic journey as well as a workout. An old vintage Boston & Maine Railroad passenger car stands on display near the start of the ride. Along the way, you will also pass through historic Arlington (home to the Uncle Sam Memorial Statue) and Lexington.

Boston and Maine railroad — The B & M railroad which was started in 1835 and operated until the 1980’s.

A leaf peeping oasis

Even though we did not take our ride during the peak of fall foliage, we were still able to experience amazing views. Beautiful orange, red, and yellow trees greeted us as we casually biked along. Scattered leaves, gently falling down, gave us that fall feeling. I really love autumn and this is hands down the best bike ride I’ve ever taken in October. It’s also the best color I’ve seen anywhere in Massachusetts or Rhode Island to date.

Orange foliage along the Minuteman bike trail

Yellow fall colors on the Minuteman trail

Brilliant fall colors along the Minuteman Bikeway — Minuteman Bikeway

Easy & smooth riding conditions

The path is wide enough to accommodate all types of exercisers, including joggers, walkers, and even rollerbladers. We saw a decent number of people out, but it did not feel overcrowded at all. We did plan the ride on Sunday which is a bit slower traffic wise. There were just enough fitness buffs out for fun people watching conditions.

Mile markers are located along the path, although I prefer to use a GPS watch to track mileage, pace, and time. The ride was relaxing, scenic, and a great workout. The entire path was lined with trees, so basically the entire ride was aesthetically pleasing. I love taking my workouts outside on the weekends as I am staring at a computer screen for much of the workweek. I really can’t stand stationary bikes. The mileage seems to go by so slow and I feel like it hurts my knees more.

The path is almost completely flat, enabling you to enjoy the ride instead of struggling through an intense uphill battle. Since we were taking a lot of photos, this worked out to our advantage. A bit hard to take pics with one hand while biking, but it was hard not to with all the gorgeous colors.

Despite one small interruption (you will have to cross an intersection in Arlington), the ride is relatively smooth with no major road crossings. Make sure to walk your bike across the sidewalks during this small section ($20 tickets are given out to those who do not follow the rules!).

Healthy food midpoint

If you need a healthy snack or caffeine boost to help you through your ride, you are in luck! Conveniently, a Trader Joe’s and Starbucks are located directly on the path around mile 6. We stopped for a quick granola bar and apple at Trader Joe’s. If you are a Trader Joe’s fan like me, then you know that they carry an awesome selection of ready made salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Even better, you can enjoy a few of their pumpkin treats this time of the year. I am a big fan of the Pumpkin Bars – I pack a few in my hiking backpack all the time in case I need a quick snack.

Historical attractions along the route

You will find a number of historical monuments along the route. What I love most about the New England area in general is the ability to enjoy a mix of history, nature, and recreation basically wherever you go. Most notably, the Uncle Sam memorial is located directly on the route in Arlington.

Uncle Sam Memorial in Arlington, Massachusetts

Other historic sites to check out:

Old Schwab Mill: The oldest continuously operating mill.
Tower Park: A picnic area which was once the site of a battle between the British & Colonial militia.
National Heritage Museum: A small, free museum for history buffs to check out.
Hancock Clarke house: Site where Paul Revere warned Sam Adams & John Hancock of the incoming British troops.
Rail Diesel Car 6211: Vintage passenger, restored and open to the public.

You can read more about these sites and find out where they are located on the map I’ve provided at the end of this post.

A Rails to Trails Hall of Fame Recipient

I definitely recommend everyone living in or visiting the Boston metro to take a ride, walk, or jog along this beautiful path. Obviously, it will be easier if you live in the area as you don’t have to rent a bike but there are options if you do need to. Fall is the best time to plan a visit as the scenic colors make it so much easier to keep going. This flat, fast path is easy enough for beginning cyclists and walkers in my opinion.

The Minuteman path has been included in the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame best rail trails in the country. You will find many of these award-winning trails in this part of the country – another one of my favorites is the East Bay in Providence which runs along the water for most of its’ course.

Colorful foliage along the Minuteman Path in Boston

Mike & I are hoping to get in another trip before the fall season is over. Who knows maybe next time we will get to experience even more dazzling fall color, although I can’t imagine it getting any better than this! I will keep my fingers crossed. A fall trip to Boston would not be complete without a stroll, ride, or run along this amazing rail trail.