Coolidge Corner to Great Blue Hill via Stony Brook Reservation loop

This moderate road cycling loop is approximately 35.7 km (22.2 miles) long and typically takes about 1 hour and 59 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The route is primarily on well-paved surfaces, making it suitable for road bikes. However, be aware that some sections within Stony Brook Reservation, like the Gavin Path, might be overgrown with missing chunks of pavement, and the Overbrook Path has eroded pavement and water diverters that act as speed bumps. Within the Blue Hills Reservation, while many double-tracks are gravelly fire roads, this specific route sticks to mostly paved roads. You'll encounter significant grades, particularly on segments like Summit Avenue and Summit Road in the Blue Hills.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from urban sections to the natural beauty of Stony Brook Reservation and Blue Hills Reservation. Notable highlights include the panoramic views from the Great Blue Hill Summit, offering extensive vistas of Boston and the south shore. Other points of interest include Bellevue Hill, Turtle Pond, and the Dell Ave Rock Urban Wild.

This route is generally considered a "moderate road ride" requiring "good fitness." While it's primarily on paved surfaces, the significant elevation gain of around 385 meters (1280 feet) and the presence of challenging climbs within the Blue Hills Reservation mean it's not ideal for absolute beginners. Cyclists should be reasonably fit to enjoy this loop.

The route can be enjoyed in various seasons, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended. Winter cycling is possible, but be mindful of ice and snow conditions, especially on less-maintained sections or shaded areas.

This route is designed for road cycling, and while dogs are generally allowed in many parts of the Blue Hills Reservation and Stony Brook Reservation, they must be kept on a leash. However, cycling with a dog on a leash can be challenging and potentially unsafe on a road cycling route, especially given the traffic and varied terrain. It's generally not recommended for this specific type of activity.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Blue Hills Reservation or Stony Brook Reservation for cycling. Both are public parklands managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and are freely accessible.

While the route starts from Coolidge Corner, you can access it from various points, especially near Stony Brook Reservation or Blue Hills Reservation. Parking is available at several locations around both reservations. For example, there are parking lots within Stony Brook Reservation and at various trailheads in the Blue Hills. Check local DCR websites for specific parking lot locations and availability.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other paths. Notably, it covers a significant portion (36%) of the Claire Saltonstall Bikeway. You'll also find smaller segments that overlap with the Walking City Trail (Sections 1, 2, and 3), the Boston Marathon route, and the Pierre Lallement Bike Path.

Coolidge Corner, the starting point, is a vibrant area with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. As you venture into Stony Brook and Blue Hills Reservations, amenities become scarce, so plan accordingly. However, there are options for refreshments and food in towns bordering the reservations, such as Hyde Park or Milton. For accommodation, Coolidge Corner and the surrounding Boston area offer a wide range of choices.

The varied terrain and significant climbs, particularly within the Blue Hills Reservation, make this route an excellent choice for interval training. The steep grades on segments like Summit Avenue (7.3%) and Summit Road (9.2%) provide natural challenges to push your limits, followed by flatter or downhill sections for recovery, allowing for an effective workout.