Visit the Mass Central Rail Trail
104 Miles from Northampton to Boston
The Mass Central Rail Trail (MCRT) is the backbone of an extensive network of trails in Massachusetts. As the longest developing rail trail in MA, the MCRT joins 27 communities through public, shared-use paths. From Northampton to Boston, the MCRT provides countless opportunities to discover new experiences, connect with local communities and access nature. Everyone is welcome.
It’s time to get out and explore!
Essential Trips on the MCRT
Explore History and Nature on the MCRT Norwottuck Branch
Picked as one of the signature rides of the MassTrails10, this 8.3-mile route starts in Northampton and ends in Amherst, providing a pleasant connection between two bustling college towns. Plenty of parking, food and shops in downtown Northampton and nearby bikeshare and public transportation.
Tour Wayland and Weston
This featured route is a 9.4 mile out and back beginning in Wayland. A relatively flat, paved trail with lots to see along the route.
Scenic trip in Rutland
This 8-mile out and back goes through woodlands, historical sites and gorgeous views to the Charnock Cut – the highest point on the MCRT.
Tour Along the Quinapoxet
This 11-mile loop takes you through pristine woodlands in the Wachusett Reservoir watershed, next to the Quinapoxet River.
From Somerville to Boston
A 15-mile out and back through Cambridge and Charlestown, near the Charles River.
A Shared Commitment to Support the MCRT
Established in 2025, the Mass Central Rail Trail Alliance is working to support the many communities and groups who build, manage and maintain the MCRT. Dedicated individuals from communities and groups across the trail are driving progress through a collective effort to build and support each section of the MCRT.
As part of the MCRT Alliance, the Wachusett Greenways, East Quabbin Land Trust, Clinton Greenway Conservation Trust and others are helping to establish the MCRT as a world class trail within the extensive system of trails in MA and in the U.S.
Explore the MCRT near you with this interactive map
How to use the map
The Mass Trail Tracker is a great way to see every segment of the MCRT (highlighted in yellow), including segments that have yet to be completed, plans for completion, and on-road work-arounds. This map also provides information on the groups managing each section.
For those looking a route across the entire MCRT, check out the RideWithGPS route East to West or West to East.