🏆🏆🏆🏆 Charles River Greenway — Linear greenway along the upper Charles River through Milford, Holliston, and Sherborn
Upper Charles River Reservation follows the upper reaches of the famous Charles River through the suburban communities of Milford, Holliston, and Sherborn. Before the Charles becomes the wide, iconic river flanking Boston and Cambridge, it begins as a modest stream in Hopkinton — winding 80 miles through suburbia. The reservation protects wetlands, floodplain forest, and river corridor that support diverse wildlife surprisingly close to the Boston metropolitan area.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Milford/Holliston/Sherborn, MA |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| River | Charles River — 80mi to Boston! |
About Upper Charles River
Upper Charles River Reservation follows the Charles River through the western Boston suburbs of Needham, Dedham, and Dover. The reservation protects riparian habitat along the river that eventually flows through Boston and Cambridge to become one of America’s most famous urban waterways. The upper section is quieter and more natural than the famous downtown Esplanade.
Upper Charles River Reservation follows the upper reaches of the Charles River through the western suburbs of Boston. The Charles — Boston’s defining river — was once one of the most polluted rivers in America (inspiring the Standells’ 1966 song “Dirty Water”). A 50-year cleanup effort has transformed it into a recreational asset. The upper river passes through meadows and wetlands that filter water before it reaches the urban core.
Things to Do
Canoeing and kayaking on the upper Charles, hiking riverside trails, birdwatching, and fishing. The Cutler Park section features a large marsh — one of the finest freshwater marshes in the metropolitan area.
Hiking, canoeing the upper Charles, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, nature photography, and exploring the restored river that inspired “Dirty Water” — now one of New England’s cleanest urban rivers.
Insider Tips
Urban greenway: The Upper Charles River Reservation connects communities along the Charles River with trails and green space. Pro tip: Part of the larger Charles River Reservation system — one of the oldest metropolitan park systems in America (est. 1893). Paddling: The upper Charles offers quiet canoeing through suburban wetlands.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Wildflowers along the river. Fall: Foliage along the Charles. Summer: Canoeing and walking. Winter: Cross-country skiing on riverside trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I canoe the Charles River?
Yes. The upper Charles River offers quiet flatwater paddling through suburban wetlands and forests. Several launch points provide access. The river flows 80 miles from Hopkinton to Boston Harbor — the upper reaches are very different from the urban river seen from the Esplanade.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Whitehall State Park is a short drive away, and Upton State Forest is a short drive away.
