By runandbike in March, 2012
I run or bike this trail starting at Rte 97 and heading towards Danvers Square. The trail is nice, but REALLY needs to be paved. The crushed stone and dirt (and mud) are prohibitive to everyone enjoying the trail. It would be much more accessible and used if it were paved. Also, some parts are dangerous if you are walking or bike riding with small kids. There are steep drop offs and in one section, near the highschool, you go over a bridge=type structure, but there's a good 20'+ drop on either side without any fencing! The trail is pretty and it's great to have, but paving it would be great--I've been ankle deep in mud there! Safety issues have to be addressed as well. Plus some markers as you cross roads (like at the AGWAY store)--hard to find the trail start at the AGWAY. You have to walk through some woods before you see a sign for the trail head.
I've been on the bikeway in Peabody numerous times and it was great to see lots of different people on it--those in wheelchairs, electric scooters, bikes, running, etc. It's much more community-friendly than the Danvers one.
By mmbutts in November, 2011
Couple of weeks ago parked at Hobart St Danvers Ma - looked liked an old station - walked south to Walmart on the trail and then back to Hobart St - really enjoyed the walk - more walkers than bike riders. Couple of days ago parked at Hobart St again and walked north to Choate Farm - very wet before Choate Farm - needs a little work. Today parked on Rte 97(alot of people do) walked south to the Swamp Walk which is really nice and then back north into Wenham for a little while - noticed alot of beaver dams, ducks and birds. Trail has been extended into Topsfield Center(across old Rte 1) - plan on doing that next weekend. Very nice trail with nice scenery.
By kshort53 in October, 2011
Accessed trail from Collins St, rode <1mile south, trail ends behind Walmart, no access at the south end. Headed north crossing Maple St and Rte 62, turned around near Danvers high school. Based upon the trail description there was likely another mile to the Choate Farm Conservation area. Trail surface is a mix of gravel and half inch stone. Little bumpy on a comfort bike with fat tires, although another rider did pass by with a hybrid bike. Saw more walkers than bikers, even passed a baby carriage. Little disappointed that many street crossings had no crosswalks although people did stop.