Minuteman Bikeway (Cambridge, MA)

I wish I could give this rather interesting route the same rave reviews as the East Bay Bike Path, but alas, it fell short of my expectations.

I decided to make the trek through Boston traffic in order to scope out the Minuteman Bikeway yesterday. I started off along the Charles River path, rode up Mass Ave. and then over to Rindge Ave. where the path begins at Alewife Station. For a few miles it's relatively interesting scenery with some parks and ponds dotting the sidelines, however, once it hits Arlington, the path gets rather wooded and secluded. It's easy to imagine how this path was once a a bustling railway, judging from the many industrial buildings along the route. Yet, this makes for a somewhat boring ride.

I should add that I never felt unsafe or insecure on the route. By design, the path seems to be an advantageous alternative to public transportation for many southbound workers. But, as far as bike trips are concerned, it doesn't hold up to some of the other places I've gone. If you're looking for a safe passage through Boston's northern neighborhoods, this is great. If you're looking for some exercise along scenic routes, it'd be best to look elsewhere.