Watertown-Cambridge Greenway

Massachusetts

4 Reviews

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Watertown-Cambridge Greenway Facts

States: Massachusetts
Counties: Middlesex
Length: 2 miles
Trail end points: School St & Arsenal St (Watertown) and 250 Fresh Pond Pkwy (Cambridge)
Trail surfaces: Asphalt
Trail category: Rail-Trail
ID: 10603739

Watertown-Cambridge Greenway Description

Connecting the cities of Watertown and Cambridge, the 2-mile 12ft-wide paved Greenway runs along the former corridor of the B&M Railroad’s Watertown Branch. The southern end of this multi-use trail begins in a busy shopping area on the site of a former U.S. Army arsenal. Trees separate the trail from nearby offices and stores. 

Shielded by trees, the trail curves north though a mix of residential and commercial areas in East Watertown and West Cambridge. There are several tunnels along the route, allowing you to stay on the trail and avoid crossing busy roads. After travelling under Huron Ave, the trail enters the Fresh Pond Reservation, passing under the leafy tree canopy and hugging the eastern edge of the Fresh Pond. The Fresh Pond Reservation is home to a number of recreational areas and facilities, including quite a few parks. Kingsley Park, Butterfly Meadow, and the Fresh Pond Reservation Dog Park (which has a sandy dog-friendly beach and pond access) to name a few. 

The Watertown-Cambridge Greenway ends by the Fresh Pond Reservation and Cambridge Water Department buildings, where it connects with the Fresh Pond Bikeway.

Looking for another nearby trails or a longer adventure? The south end of the trail connects to the Watertown Community Bike Path, whose western endpoint is near the Charles River Bike Path. Also referred to as the Charles River Greenway, the trail offers a paved route along the Charles River to Boston and neighboring communities. Accessible via the Charles River Bike Path and just south of the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway, enjoy the Watertown Riverfront Park and Braille Trail (147 Charles River Rd #101). 

As an alternative travel option for both commuters and recreational users, the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway offers an accessible and pleasant experience in nature. 

Parking and Trail Access

NOTE: Parking at Fresh Pond Reservation is only for permitted Cambridge Residents.

For other parking options, looking for parking at Arsenal Park (485 Arsenal St.).

Watertown-Cambridge Greenway Reviews

Important connector and not too crowded

Now extends from Fresh Pond in Cambridge/Alewife to near Watertown Sq, and connects to the Charles river paths (at a few points) and many shopping needs. Pavement is good except a spot near School St.

No Parking

Contrary to the symbol on the map, parking is NOT available at the Fresh Pond end, even on Sundays, unless you live in Cambridge, and even then, "Permit Required". I drove almost two hours to get there and back, and never got to walk it.

Great connector trail

It might not be long and the Watertown end is developing some nasty root bumps, but it's a fantastic way to connect from the 'burbs to Boston. Now that it's finally finished, I can ride from Bedford to downtown Boston (via Minuteman and Charles River paths, etc.) virtually all off road. So glad it's complete!

short but great trail

It’s a nice short trail, and I don’t think many people know about it.

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