Boston is America’s walking city — so on a nice day, enjoy a Charles River walk to the Science Museum or Esplanade. See parks, landmarks and Boston history along the way. Consider taking the shuttle one way and walking the other.
A natural and wild quality pervades the Charles River’s banks upriver from the dam at Watertown Square. Unlike the riverbanks along the Charles River Basin–the well-known Boston and Cambridge Esplanades with their elegant, manicured walkways and skyline views–the Upper Charles is a narrow winding body of water bordered by a ribbon of lush vegetation. Small dams and arching bridges regularly punctuate this walk, and views of the water are short and focused, extended only to the next river bend, and frequently provided by wooden overlook decks.
The rustic, overgrown appearance of MDC’s Upper Charles River Reservation is intentional. The greenway is designed to be a self-sustaining natural environment. Even its narrowest sections evoke a wonderful wilderness-like feeling, making the tensions of city life fade.
Click on the photo for “WalkBoston’s Upper Charles River Reservation Walking Map” on Google Maps
The pathways of Cambridge spread far beyond its famous education centers. Some areas, such as the Charles River, are well known to present and former students. Still, the secrets of the leafy residential areas west of Harvard Square are likely to remain unseen until teased out by a journey on foot with an advisory text in hand.
As a whole West Cambridge presents many contrasts of natural beauty and architectural landmarks. The quality of the built environment is exceptionally high. Landscaping is mature and well-maintained. Views vary from close-up to several miles. The Brattle Street and Coolidge Hill neighborhoods and Mount Auburn Cemetery are enclaves, quiet and distinct, yet very close to Harvard Square. This tour through one of Boston’s most exquisite neighborhoods will reveal its marvels–known and unknown.
Click for “WalkBoston’s West Cambridge Walking Map” on Google Maps