Boston is a city of historic streets and vibrant neighborhoods, and there’s no better way to explore them than by bike. With an expanding network of bike lanes and scenic paths, cycling has become a popular and efficient way to navigate the city. Whether you’re a seasoned urban rider or a casual tourist, biking in Boston offers a unique perspective on its landmarks and hidden gems.
Boston’s Best Bike Paths and Trails
Scenic Rides and Commuter Routes
Boston and the greater metro area are home to an impressive collection of bike paths that cater to all skill levels. One of the most popular and scenic options is the Charles River Bike Path, which, according to TrailLink.com, is a paved, 22-mile route offering stunning views of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. For a ride with a sense of history, the Minuteman Bikeway follows a former rail trail through historic towns where the American Revolution began.
Other notable routes include the Emerald Necklace, a chain of parks and green spaces designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and the Southwest Corridor Park, a popular commuter route that links several of the city’s neighborhoods. For more adventurous cyclists, there are even gravel trails and off-road paths just north of the city at the Middlesex Fells Reservation.
Bike Rentals and Safety
If you don’t have your own bike, there are plenty of rental options available throughout the city. Bluebikes, Boston’s public bike-sharing system, is a convenient and affordable choice with numerous docking stations. For a more personalized experience, local shops like Urban AdvenTours and Landry’s Bicycles offer a variety of bikes for rent, from city cruisers to performance road bikes.
When biking in Boston, safety is key. According to the City of Boston’s official website, cyclists are required to follow all traffic laws, including obeying traffic signals and riding in the same direction as vehicles. According to the Massachusetts government site, the law also states that you must use hand signals to indicate turns, and it is a requirement for anyone under the age of 17 to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, skateboard, or scooter. By staying alert and following the rules, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding ride through the city.
