Newburyport & Plum Island

Newburyport is a lovely, historic coastal town 35 miles north of Boston. It features a quaint and festive town center, with well-preserved and restored buildings, waterfront parks, a great beach at Plum Island, bike paths, and the beautifully landscaped Maudslay state park. We have four great running options:

Waterfront Out to Plum Island. 4.5 miles (7.2 km) one-way. Starting at Cashman Park, run along waterside paths and Water St., for 2.5 miles, with nice views to the Merrimack River. Then, Plum Island Turnpike is a 2 mile, open road with great marsh and water views, and a good shoulder for running. Once on Plum Island, you can run paralleling the beach on Northern and Southern Blvd. for 2 miles — not a lot of water views but a great summer beach house colony and Plum Island Lighthouse. MAP

Clipper City Rail Trail. 3 miles (4.8 km) one-way.  A pleasant, paved path that runs from Newburyport Commuter Rail station to the water for 1.2 miles, where you can continue along waterfront paths. Industrial at first, then pleasant through downtown. Can also run over the Bridge, and continue along the trail for another mile. Nice marsh views on the northern side. MAP (to water). MAP (over bridge & north side).

Maudslay State Park. This 480-acre park features 19th century gardens and plantings, rolling meadows, towering pines, and one of the largest naturally-occurring stands of mountain laurel in Massachusetts. One can easily put together a 4-5 mile run here. See this MAP of the trails and guide to suggested walks/rides. A local favorite is the 5 km trail named after Travis Landreth, a local elite runner who sadly passed away at the age of 24.