Review
Intro
This 700-acre park, located in Needham, is a great place to go for a ride or run, especially if you can't spend all day on the trail. A short 30-minute drive from Boston will have you in the parking lot and ready to tackle the many trails that snake their way around the marshland.
What Makes It Great
Cutler Park is by no means a huge destination, in terms of size, at least. That being said, there is plenty to keep everyone interested here. Hills, boardwalks, and the beautiful surrounding scenery of the marshland are sure to please all parties who visit. Beginners will especially thrive at Cutler Park, as many of the single-track trails are well packed and the terrain is not technical.
In addition to the park’s short distance from the city, Cutler Park features a variety of wildlife for visitors to enjoy. Notable points of interest are Kendrick Pond and the ever-famous Charles River, which winds its way throughout the park and continues onward into the heart of Boston. Cutler Park also features a freshwater marsh, the largest found amongst the Charles River. Riding amongst the trees, around the marsh, and alongside the Charles, riders will likely forget they are only 14 miles away from one of the largest metropolitan areas on the East Coast. A great map of the park and its trails can be found at: http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/dcr/parks/trails/cutler.pdf
Who is Going to Love It
Beginners will have a fantastic time riding around Cutler Parks well-kept and moderate trails. There are no sections that are overly technical, allowing for riders to focus on taking in the beautiful scenery of the park. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will both enjoy this park immensely, as there are numerous sections of the park that feature unique flora and fauna that are difficult to find around this proximity to Boston. Ducks, geese, herons, hawks, and deer are just a few of the wildlife species that you are likely to encounter throughout the park during your visit.
Although enjoyable at anytime of the year, autumn is the definitely best time to visit, as many of the wet spots that dot the landscape in spring and summer have dried and the New England foliage is in superb form.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
Take Exit 19A off Route 95. At the first set of lights, make a right onto Second Ave. At the end of Second Ave., make a right onto Fourth Ave. At the end of Fourth Ave., make a right onto Kendrick St. Look for the reservation sign on the left side of the street, before the PTC office building. Park in the lot with the sign.
There are no parking or day-use fees to be worried about and dogs are welcome here. As always, just be sure to pick up after your friend so that others may enjoy this beautiful piece of land without tarnish.
