Reformatory Branch Rail Trail

The Reformatory Branch Trail begins at Railroad Avenue near the Bedford Depot and follows a flat, wooded corridor northeast to Lowell Road in Concord, opposite Keyes Road. This easy route traces the former Boston & Maine Railroad “Reformatory Branch,” with stretches of packed dirt and gravel that remain mostly level throughout. It’s well-suited for walking, hiking, and hybrid or mountain biking, though surface conditions can become muddy after rain or during spring thaw. Shortly after leaving Bedford, the route enters wooded conservation land and crosses sections of the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Wetland views and bird-watching opportunities increase closer to Concord. The trail also passes near the North Bridge and Monument Street, where historical landmarks mark the start of the American Revolution. While dogs are permitted on leash, restrictions may apply within the wildlife refuge. Bridges across the Sudbury and Assabet Rivers are no longer in place, and the corridor becomes overgrown beyond the official endpoints. This quiet route offers an easy walk with a mix of natural scenery and Revolutionary War history.