Clipper City Rail Trail and Harborwalk Loop
Clipper City Rail Trail and Harborwalk Loop
4.6
(3572)
14,587
hikers
01:42
6.61km
30m
Hiking
Hike the easy Clipper City Rail Trail and Harborwalk Loop for scenic river views, public art, and historical insights in Newburyport.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.56 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
3.37 km
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
3.48 km
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
4.15 km
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
4.69 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
6.61 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.99 km
364 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.16 km
774 m
163 m
142 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 10 May
20°C
9°C
28 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail offers convenient access to downtown Newburyport's shops and restaurants, suggesting parking options would be available in the downtown area. The trail also links directly to the Newburyport MBTA Station, which often has parking facilities.
The Clipper City Rail Trail provides excellent connectivity, linking the Newburyport MBTA Station directly to the waterfront. This makes it very accessible via public transportation.
While the trail is a multi-use pathway, specific dog regulations (like leash laws) are not detailed in the provided information. However, multi-use paths in urban areas typically require dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival.
The trail is suitable for year-round use due to its paved nature. However, for the most pleasant experience, spring, summer, and fall offer vibrant scenery and comfortable temperatures. The Harborwalk section provides beautiful views of the Merrimack River, which can be enjoyed in any season.
Yes, as a paved, multi-use pathway, the trail can generally be used in winter. However, conditions may vary depending on snow and ice. Always exercise caution and check local weather conditions before heading out.
No, there is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to access the Clipper City Rail Trail and Harborwalk Loop. It is a public multi-use pathway.
The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use pathway. It is noted for being almost completely flat, with less than 100 feet of elevation gain. This gentle terrain makes it suitable for various users, including those with strollers and wheelchairs.
Yes, the trail is almost completely flat and paved, making it highly suitable and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
The full continuous loop around the core of Newburyport is approximately 3.3 to 3.9 miles long. For hiking, the estimated duration is about 1 hour and 40 minutes, but this can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the sights.
The loop connects diverse parts of Newburyport, offering a mix of urban and natural scenery. You'll enjoy the scenic Clipper City Rail Trail — Harborwalk section along the Merrimack River with views of the water and the Gillis Bridge. The trail also features public art installations, historical interpretive signs, unique seating options, and passes through residential areas and parks.
Yes, along the route, you can see several notable landmarks. These include the Rear Range Light, the Front Range Lighthouse, and Hilton's Marina. The trail itself, particularly the Clipper City Rail Trail (West) and the Harborwalk section, is a highlight with its public art and historical markers.
Yes, the Clipper City Rail Trail is part of a larger network. It connects to the Old Eastern Marsh Trail via the Gillis Bridge Connector and forms part of the Coastal Trails Network and the Border to Boston Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Clipper City Rail Trail and the Harborwalk.
Last September I did most of this walk and wanted to do the whole thing. Cold day but I was bundled up. Did my heart good to see kids still going sledding.