Courtesy: essexheritage.org

Lynn Woods is a hidden gem near Boston, with trail running for all abilities. At 2,200 acres, it’s actually the second largest municipal park in the United States — yet many people in Boston don’t even know about it! There are 30 miles of trails and paths. The easier roads for running are the ~10 miles of fire roads. There are also some more rugged, hilly trails that are popular for hiking and mountain biking.  Scenic highlights include three reservoirs, Dungeon Rock (a well-loved underground tunnel with a history of pirate lore and treasure seekers), and a rose garden.

If sticking to the fire roads, it’s 2.1 miles between the Pennybrook Rd. gate and the eastern entrance off Great Woods Road. A perimeter loop, mainly using fire roads,  is 4.5 miles, which we’ve mapped. We’ve also included a trail map. Note that it can be a bit confusing, as in sections there aren’t a lot of distinct landmarks.

Caution: Be aware of mountain bikers.

Our thanks to Mark Rosenblum for the trail map!

 

Essentials
  • 30 miles of trails, including 10 miles of wider fire roads; Perimeter loop on fire roads is 4.5 miles (7.3 km)
  • Perimeter loop is 354 feet (108m)
  • Either entrance/parking area
  • A 20-minute drive from downtown Boston. Two parking areas -- main entrance off Pennybrook Rd. and eastern entrance off Great Woods Rd.

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A guide of running in Boston with Great Runs - The Run Show USA
2 years ago

[…] Boston: We recommend the Middlesex Fells in Stoneham, Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, and the Lynn Woods in Lynn for extensive trail running options within 10 miles of the […]

Essentials
  • 30 miles of trails, including 10 miles of wider fire roads; Perimeter loop on fire roads is 4.5 miles (7.3 km)
  • Perimeter loop is 354 feet (108m)
  • Either entrance/parking area
  • A 20-minute drive from downtown Boston. Two parking areas -- main entrance off Pennybrook Rd. and eastern entrance off Great Woods Rd.