Owned by the Town of Arlington but located entirely within Lexington, Great Meadows is 183 acres of flat marshy plain and wooded uplands, a legacy of a 19th-century water-supply system, with the Minuteman Bikeway forming its southern edge and boardwalks crossing the wetter sections.
What to expect
Trails
Trail network circles the wetland plain through wooded uplands with some boardwalk sections; length not precisely confirmed but AllTrails lists loops around 2…
Parking
Not confirmed · unconfirmed
Dogs
Off-leash hours generally run park opening to 9am under Arlington's dog bylaw, with leashes required the rest of the day; the Lexington portion is reportedly off-leash all day
Hours
No gate; open access via the bikeway and street entrances
Accessibility
Not confirmed; unpaved trail with boardwalk sections
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Arlington Department of Public Works, Parks & Recreation Division
781-316-3301 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Parking not sourced yet
Check the town or agency pages before you go.
What's here
On site
Info kiosk
Boardwalks and visitor facilities improved by Friends of Arlington's Great Meadows
Common questions
Where do I park for Great Meadows?
There is no dedicated parking lot at the trailhead. Visitors typically park near the Waldorf School of Lexington on Lowell Street.
Why is Arlington land located in Lexington?
The town of Arlington bought the land in the mid-19th century for a water-supply system that was later discontinued, leaving Arlington-owned land entirely inside Lexington's borders.
Is there an entry fee at Arlington's Great Meadows?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Arlington's Great Meadows?
Off-leash hours generally run park opening to 9am under Arlington's dog bylaw, with leashes required the rest of the day; the Lexington portion is reportedly off-leash all day
Is Arlington's Great Meadows wheelchair accessible?
Not confirmed; unpaved trail with boardwalk sections
What rules should I know at Arlington's Great Meadows?
Over half the property is protected wetland; stay on marked trails and boardwalks.