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Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop

Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop

Easy

3.2

(20)

riders

Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop?

This loop is classified as an easy gravel ride , making it suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. It features a relatively small elevation gain over its 12.7-kilometer distance, requiring minimal technical expertise.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

The route offers a mix of surfaces. It is largely composed of paved sections, making it accessible, but also includes unpaved areas and winding trails within the wooded parts of Auburndale Park. This blend contributes to its appeal as a gravel biking trail.

Q: Where can I park for the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop?

You can find parking at Norumbega Park , which serves as a convenient starting point for the loop.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The loop offers diverse scenery. You'll pass through Auburndale Park (Auburndale Cove) , which provides river frontage along the Charles River. Further along, Forest Grove Park offers picturesque views of Mt. Feake cemetery, and you'll also encounter the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area , known for its wetlands.

Q: Is the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the parks along the loop are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations and other trail users.

Q: What is the best time of year to ride this loop?

The loop is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter can also be scenic, with opportunities to spot bald eagles near Forest Grove, though conditions may vary.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to access this trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Auburndale Park, Forest Grove Park, or the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area. They are publicly accessible.

Q: Does the trail connect to other paths for longer rides?

Yes, the loop connects to the Charles River Path, which allows for extended rides and further exploration along the river. This is a great option if you're looking to lengthen your outing.

Q: What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. You might spot various bird species, especially in the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area. In winter, bald eagles have been known to frequent the area near Forest Grove Park.

Q: Are there any facilities available along the route?

Auburndale Park (Auburndale Cove) offers amenities such as picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a versatile spot for recreation beyond just biking.

00:49

12.7km

80m

Gravel riding

Discover the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop, an easy gravel biking route that takes you along the scenic Charles River. This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) journey features a mix of paved and natural surfaces, winding through open woods. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 248 feet (76 metres),…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Forest Grove Park

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

4.87 km

Norumbega Park

Highlight • Parking

Norumbega Park is a pretty small park with a 1.5-mile loop that offers views of the Charles River. The trail around the park is more of a walking path, but …

Tip by

6.00 km

Auburndale Park (Auburndale Cove)

Highlight • Rest Area

This park has riverfront acreage, basketball and tennis courts, ball fields, a playground, and picnic tables plus grills.

Tip by

6.28 km

Flowed Meadow Conservation Area

Highlight • Natural

Flowed Meadow Conservation Area, in Waltham, is a serene haven. Its meandering trails, wetlands, and diverse flora and fauna offer a tranquil escape for nature lovers.

Tip by

6.69 km

Forest Grove Park

Highlight • Forest

The open woods in this small, forested peninsula are great for picnicking and birdwatching. Sometimes bald eagles overwinter on the far side of the Charles River from here.

Tip by

12.7 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.55 km

2.95 km

2.73 km

1.24 km

237 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

10.4 km

1.10 km

778 m

447 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Thursday 7 May

18°C

8°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop?

This loop is classified as an easy gravel ride, making it suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. It features a relatively small elevation gain over its 12.7-kilometer distance, requiring minimal technical expertise.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

The route offers a mix of surfaces. It is largely composed of paved sections, making it accessible, but also includes unpaved areas and winding trails within the wooded parts of Auburndale Park. This blend contributes to its appeal as a gravel biking trail.

Where can I park for the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop?

You can find parking at Norumbega Park, which serves as a convenient starting point for the loop.

What can I see along the route?

The loop offers diverse scenery. You'll pass through Auburndale Park (Auburndale Cove), which provides river frontage along the Charles River. Further along, Forest Grove Park offers picturesque views of Mt. Feake cemetery, and you'll also encounter the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area, known for its wetlands.

Is the Auburndale Park and Forest Grove loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the parks along the loop are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations and other trail users.

What is the best time of year to ride this loop?

The loop is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter can also be scenic, with opportunities to spot bald eagles near Forest Grove, though conditions may vary.

Are there any permits or fees required to access this trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Auburndale Park, Forest Grove Park, or the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area. They are publicly accessible.

Does the trail connect to other paths for longer rides?

Yes, the loop connects to the Charles River Path, which allows for extended rides and further exploration along the river. This is a great option if you're looking to lengthen your outing.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. You might spot various bird species, especially in the Flowed Meadow Conservation Area. In winter, bald eagles have been known to frequent the area near Forest Grove Park.

Are there any facilities available along the route?

Auburndale Park (Auburndale Cove) offers amenities such as picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a versatile spot for recreation beyond just biking.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Boston Marathon, Marty Sender Greenway, and Washington Street trails.