Explore the Natural Beauty of Mystic River State Reservation
Discover the natural beauty of Mystic River State Reservation—perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors in Medford, Massachusetts.
Mystic River State Reservation is a stunning state park nestled in Medford, Massachusetts, offering tourists a serene escape into nature with scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views of the Mystic River. Ideal for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities, this destination is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Mystic River State Reservation
- Mystic Valley Pkwy, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, US
- +1617-727-5380
- Visit website
- Monday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring water shoes if you plan to wade in the river, as the rocks can be sharp.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and wildlife sightings.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the river.
- Check the weather before your visit to dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from anywhere in The Islands and head towards Route 3. Follow signs for MA-3 North towards Boston. Merge onto I-93 North and continue for about 12 miles. Take exit 32 for Mystic Valley Parkway (MA-16) toward Medford. Once you exit, follow Mystic Valley Parkway for about 3 miles. The Mystic River State Reservation will be on your left at 42.4044958 latitude and -71.0846126 longitude. Look for parking areas near the entrance.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, take the ferry from The Islands to mainland Massachusetts. Once you arrive at the terminal, locate the nearest bus stop. Board the MBTA bus route 67 towards Alewife Station. After approximately 30 minutes, transfer to the MBTA bus route 350 at the Alewife Station. Ride for another 20 minutes until you reach the stop for Mystic Valley Parkway. From there, it’s a short walk (about 0.5 miles) to the Mystic River State Reservation entrance.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can bike to Mystic River State Reservation. Start from your location in The Islands and head towards the ferry terminal. After taking the ferry, bike north on the Mystic Valley Parkway. The total distance is approximately 12 miles, and it will take around an hour to reach the park. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow local cycling laws. There are bike racks available at the reservation entrance.
Discover more about Mystic River State Reservation
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