Outdoor Recreation in Lexington

Almost 1,300 of Lexington’s 10,000 acres are deemed Conservation Land. Fifty miles of walking trails cross these wetlands, fields and forests offer many opportunities for picnicking, nature study, sledding, and cross country skiing.

Trail Walking and Picnicking

ACROSS Lexington

A network of marked trails and paths for walkers, runners and trail bikers. The routes use existing public ways to connect the town center with various historic sites, schools and conservation areas. Residents and visitors will gain enjoyment and fitness as they travel around town without a car.

Battle Road Trail

This trail starts at Wood St. and Old Mass. Ave. in Lexington and ends in Concord, providing pedestrian, stroller, handicapped and bicycle access through farmland, natural landscapes and wetlands. The path is part of the Minuteman National Historic Park. Parking lots exist along the trail for those who do not wish to cover the entire 5.5 mile distance.

Belfry Hill

This is a quick, pleasant hike, but not stroller-friendly. From Cary Library, cross Clarke St. and leave the town’s bustle behind as you climb stone stairs to the top of Belfry Hill. Atop this hill stands a replica of the Belfry whose tolling once warned Minutemen of the Redcoats’ arrival. Stop and see the battle panorama at the Visitor’s Center across the road.

Chiesa Farm

One of Lexington’s most scenic properties, 23 acres of conservation land, a mile of trails, with an open rolling field visible along Adams St. Access is from Sedge Rd., near Diamond Middle School, and from Adams St. across from Fiske Elementary School.

Great Meadow

After some playtime at Adams Playground (Mass. Ave. and Pleasant St.) by the Waldorf School, cross over the Minuteman bike path to Great Meadow. There are some wonderful hills, boardwalks, and trails for hiking, cross country skiing, and nature walking. In the summer, keep your eyes open for blueberries.

Hastings Park

Located on Lincoln St., opposite the Hayden Recreation Centre. In July and August, band concerts are held in the gazebo on Tuesday evenings at 7:15 p.m. Visit www.lexingtonchamber.org/events for more information. This is also a popular sledding spot.

Landlocked Forest

Visitors will find miles of gorgeous and easily navigable trails, providing year-round recreation: hiking, mountain biking, dog walks, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A wide variety of plant and animal life can also be enjoyed. The main trailhead to the Forest is located on Turning Mill Road in Lexington, under the power lines.

Minuteman Bikeway

Built along an abandoned railroad corridor, the bike path is nearly 11 miles long. It begins near the Alewife MBTA Station in Cambridge, passes through Arlington and Lexington, and ends one mile into Bedford. The bike path can be used for walking (with and without strollers), cycling, rollerblading and even cross-country skiing in the winter. Please note that it can get congested on weekends and that no motorized vehicles (like scooters) are allowed.

Paint Mine

Forty-eight acres, 2.3 miles of trails, Paint Mine hosts its namesake feature: a natural ochre pigment historically utilized to manufacture paint. Boston Edison ' s powerline right-of-way makes up a large portion of this property, but the majority of the area consists of woodland with vegetation that is more characteristic of northern New England. Access trails are from Grove St., Turning Mill Road, Estabrook School' s parking area, and Robinson Road.

Parker Meadow

There is a mile of trails near Lexington Center with access to the Minuteman Bikeway. It features a picturesque pond with an open meadow and woodland. Access the area from Minuteman Bikeway, Hancock St., and Revere St. There is a small parking pull-off area on Revere St. that is just east of the bikeway.