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March 21, 2022
Cycling
February 16, 2022
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Upper Charles Trail
4.2
(6)
22
riders
24.8km
01:30
100m
100m
The Upper Charles Trail invites you to an easy touring cycling adventure, covering 15.4 miles (24.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 321 feet (98 metres). Expect to spend about 1 hour and 29 minutes enjoying the ride. As you cycle, you'll pass through scenic woodlands and alongside tranquil waters, such as Louisa Lake, offering pleasant views and chances for wildlife spotting.
Planning your visit is simple, with amenities like parking and restrooms conveniently located at key access points along the route. For instance, Fino Field in Milford provides a good starting point with available parking. While much of the trail is flat, be prepared for varying surface conditions, including smooth asphalt, hard-packed crushed stone, and some unpaved sections.
This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical elements. You can discover unique features like the Phipps Tunnel and the impressive eight-arch Bogastow Brook Viaduct, which add character to your journey. The trail offers a welcoming experience for cyclists of all levels, making it a notable option in the region for a relaxed ride.
3.0
(1)
3
riders
27.0km
01:40
130m
130m
Pedal through the heart of MetroWest Massachusetts on the Upper Charles Trail Loop, an easy 16.8-mile (27.0 km) touring cycling route that offers a delightful escape into nature. You'll glide past tranquil waters like Louisa Lake and through scenic woodlands, with the entire journey taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. The trail's gentle 418 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain makes it a perfect choice for a relaxed ride, suitable for cyclists of all abilities.
For a smooth start, head to Fino Field in Milford, which provides convenient parking and restrooms. The trail features a mix of asphalt and crushed stone surfaces, though be aware that some sections, particularly in Holliston, might be unpaved with dirt or gravel. This makes it generally accessible, but road bikes with very narrow tires might find the unpaved parts a bit challenging. No special permits are needed, and the trail is well-maintained for your enjoyment.
This rail-trail boasts a rich history, built on former railroad beds and featuring impressive historical structures like the unique Phipps Tunnel and the beautiful eight-arch Bogastow Brook Viaduct. The local communities take pride in the trail's cleanliness and even showcase trailside art in some areas. It's an excellent opportunity to observe local wildlife as you cycle through marshes and along water bodies, making it a notable natural feature in the region.
4.7
(3)
25
riders
The Upper Charles Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through picturesque New England scenery. You'll pedal past tranquil forests and bogs, enjoying views of Milford Pond and Louisa Lake Park. The trail's surface varies from smooth asphalt in Milford to packed dirt and fine gravel in other sections, making it an engaging ride for those who appreciate diverse terrain.
For planning your visit, the K-Mart/Double Tree Hotel area provides a convenient starting point with ample parking, though it's not a formally designated trailhead. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but a hybrid or gravel bike is recommended for comfort across the changing surfaces. This easy 18.1-mile (29.2 km) route, with only 400 feet (122 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 43 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Upper Charles Trail is rich in history, utilizing former railroad beds. You'll encounter unique landmarks like the curved-wall Phipps Tunnel and the impressive eight-arch Bogastow Brook Viaduct. This well-maintained trail showcases strong community pride and offers a safe, off-road option for cycling, connecting several Massachusetts towns.
Details
Informations
Distance 535 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
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