Marblehead Rail-Trail:
Massachusetts
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Description:
Shaped like a Y, this 4.1-mile rail-trail connects two seaside towns. From the trail junction in quaint Marblehead, one branch meanders through conservation areas and past harbor overlooks to Salem, notorious for its 1692 witch trials. The second branch offers a longer route heading toward Swampscott through Marblehead's residential areas, offering a more local look at this seaside community.
The intersection of Bessom Street and Roundhouse Road in central Marblehead marks the apex of the trail, and a good starting point. Follow the sandy path on the west side of Bessom Street a quarter mile to the trail junction beside a fenced utility yard. Time to choose: to the right lies Salem, while the left branch leads down the coast toward Swampscott.
The branch toward Salem begins with a natural, sandy surface, and soon enters Hawthorn Pond Conservation Area, a 9.8-acre preserve with marshes, ponds, streams, and four interconnected nature trails. Take care as you emerge from the conservation area on West Shore Drive, as traffic can be heavy.
Up next is Wyman Woods Conservation area, a 33.5-acre mix of wetlands and mature forests that gives way to beautiful views of Salem Harbor. On warm days, trail users can hike down a sandy path to the water's edge for a refreshing dip or stop along the wooden railroad bridge for a particularly inspiring view of the harbor.
Entering Salem, the trail crosses Route 114; use caution at this major artery. Beyond, artistic gates modeled after antique high-wheel bicycles mark the path, and the surface switches to smooth asphalt. You'll soon pass Salem State College, then enter a commercial area. The trail ends at Canal Street.
The alternative branch of the trail toward Swampscott also begins on a natural sand and gravel surface. Crossing Pleasant Street, you'll pass the public high school, where ball fields and playgrounds offer ample open space for a quick stretch or a relaxing break. Students use the route as a commuter corridor.
From the high school, the asphalt trail continues along a raised corridor through residential areas, with plenty of paved access roads to Marblehead beaches. The trail ends at the Temple Emanu-El parking lot.
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Parking & Trail Access:
To reach the main trailhead, take State Route 128 to Exit 25 and head south on State Route 114 south to Marblehead. In town, 114 becomes Lafayette Street and then Pleasant Street. Follow Pleasant Street into town, then turn left on Bessom Street. Just past the shopping center on the right, take your first right turn onto Roundhouse Road. The trailhead is across the street.
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Seasonal Restrictions:
None
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Reviews: [1 trail ratings]
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Don't get lost
By ferris on August 15, 2010
The split is not marked, but simply follow the chain link fence at the power substation and it will lead you to the other arm.
Nice Trail
By boldog on May 09, 2010
The trail gets less defined as you travel on it from Salem to Swampscott. I could tell when it turns around after the forks at the midway point in Marblehead but there are no mile markers or a sign to confirm the other end. When it gets tight so that it's only good for walking it's time to turn around.

Nice trail though; no standing water; pretty flat. If you get off the trail at any point you will probably find a beach or shop. I'm from Connecticut but I love coming to this area.
Marblehead Trail Condition(s)
By glenzx on May 27, 2009
As a recent transplant to Marblehead, I'd note that the trail has been moderately 'updated' with an all-weather crusher refines type surface (gray hard-packed gravel) and is generally in good shape. The street crossings, even at busier roads - are no problem, as most drivers stop and yield to the trail users, even if cycling. The folks in Swampscott, MA are pushing to extend the trail along the same RR right-of-way and bring the trail all the way down to 'Walker Street'. See their website at http://spirit01907.org/ for more information. The Swampscott continuation would put the trail very close to the Swampscott MBTA Commuter Rail stop.

My 2 1/2 year old boy is learning how to ride his bike on these great trails, and all the parks and open spaces - as well as natural areas - are a nice break from the two-wheeled lessons. It'd be great to see more of the trail / right of way developed!
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