Alewife Linear Park

A Green Corridor Through the City

Located between Cambridge and Somerville, the Alewife Linear Park stretches about 2 miles from the Alewife MBTA Station to Cedar Street in Somerville. Built in 1985 as part of the Red Line Extension project, this green strip sits right above the subway tunnel between Davis Square and Alewife Station.

Covering about 3.3 acres, this slender park offers landscaped areas alongside a smooth, paved pathway that's completely off-road. It acts as an important connection in Boston's growing network of connected paths that cyclists sometimes call "bike highways."

Connections That Matter

The park connects several important trails, linking the Minuteman Bikeway (which goes all the way to Bedford) with the Somerville Community Path. Thanks to this connection, you can travel from Bedford into downtown Boston almost entirely on car-free paths.

The western end begins at Russell Field, where you can find well-maintained sports facilities including football and baseball areas. Along the way, the park provides easy access to Samp and Comeau Fields and the Francis McCrehan Memorial Pool - great if you're looking to mix up your outdoor activities.

More Than a Path

While many use this park for commuting, it's equally valuable as a place to unwind. The paved trail welcomes everyone - walkers, joggers, cyclists, and even in-line skaters share this community space.

One of the park's best features is its tree-lined corridor that offers welcome shade on hot days while adding to the urban forest. This green tunnel is particularly magical during fall when the leaves change color, and in spring when everything blooms anew.

Autumn leaves carpet the ground as sunlight filters through trees

Photo: Tim Sackton (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A Community Space

Scattered across the park are places to sit and simply enjoy being outdoors. These quiet spots have become treasured resources for North Cambridge residents and anyone passing through.

You might appreciate the freedom from traffic - this car-free route threads through urban neighborhoods, connecting homes with transit stations and community resources. Just keep in mind that the path can get busy with fast-moving cyclists, so stay alert when walking.

Historical Touches

The park follows former train tracks, preserving this historical transportation corridor as public green space instead of letting it disappear to development.

As you travel from Cambridge into Somerville, you'll pass by Maxwell Green, a newer development built where a cardboard box factory once stood. Look for the historical information displayed there if you're curious about the area's industrial past.

Practical Details

The park opens at dawn and closes at dusk for most of the year. During warmer months (April 1st through October 31st), hours extend until 10:00 p.m., giving you more time to enjoy evening strolls or rides.

If you need a break during your journey, the area around Davis Square offers plenty of spots to grab a bite or rest before continuing on your way.