Tips
January 5, 2024
Cycling
The rail-trail was once a short spur of the Eastern Railroad from Boston to Salem. Trains would have traveled along the trail until 1959.
September 19, 2025
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Marblehead Rail Trail
4.9
(10)
29
riders
39.9km
02:25
160m
160m
Cycle the moderate 24.8-mile Nahant & Marblehead loop from Salem, featuring coastal views, beaches, and historic towns.
4.4
(7)
39
riders
67.8km
04:16
220m
220m
This Marblehead Rail Trail Rumney Marsh Reservation loop from Malden Center offers a truly diverse cycling experience, transitioning from urban connections to stunning coastal vistas and unique marshlands. You'll pedal past Marblehead Harbor, with its charming boats, and then delve into the expansive 600-acre salt marsh of the Rumney Marsh Reservation, a haven for migratory birds. The route combines smooth paved sections with stone-dust and gravel rail trails, providing a varied and engaging ride for those seeking scenic viewpoints and natural beauty.
Planning your ride from Malden Center is straightforward, with good public transport access making it an ideal starting point for this moderate touring cycling route. Be ready for a substantial 42.1-mile (67.8 km) journey with 717 feet (219 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 15 minutes. While much of the route is paved, prepare for some unpaved sections, including a gravel/dirt track through the marsh, requiring good fitness and a suitable bike.
This cycling route is notable for its historical significance, following abandoned railroad lines that date back to the Eastern Railroad Company in 1839, and its connection to larger networks like the East Coast Greenway. Beyond the natural beauty of the salt marsh ecosystem, you'll also pass through historically rich towns like Salem and Marblehead, offering a blend of natural and cultural exploration. It's one of the best touring cycling routes near Malden MA for a comprehensive North Shore adventure.
5.0
(2)
24
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.07 km
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 10 m
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