Green Spaces of Tufts
Before coming to Tufts, I was a four year varsity Cross Country and Track and Field athlete. I enjoyed running around new places and finding green spaces to explore. Upon arriving here, I was thrilled with the sprawling wonders of nature just a few miles away that I could adventure to and discover. Getting outside for a few hours a day is something I truly value and wanted to emulate when coming to college.
My favorite places to run have been the Somerville Community Path and Green Line Extension, both of which offer amazing resources with their paved bike paths. Located right off both sides of the Davis Square T Station, this community trail runs in either direction connecting Somerville with the city of Boston, just by foot or bike. Running or walking or biking down this paved path is an awesome way to explore the nearby neighborhoods on foot!
Going towards Arlington on the Holland Avenue entrance, this path connects with the Minuteman Bikeway expanding into more miles of paved-path beauty. Going towards Boston behind the College Avenue entrance, the Green Line Bikeway Extension spans more miles to take you along the Green Line section of the T, with many places to hop on/off the train along the way. If you feel like you’ve wandered too far to get back to campus on foot, the T will take you right back to the Medford/Tufts station!
The Middlesex Fells Reservation is also incredibly close to Tufts with entrances in Medford and Winchester. Home to many wildlife, beautiful trees, and ponds, these acres of wooded forest are a wonderful place to visit in all seasons. Going up to Wright’s Tower is a must to see a view of Downtown Boston from above—if you look closely, you can even spot Tufts! Just a short walk from the Governors Avenue/South Border entrance in Medford, this outlook provides a scenic outlook into the hustle and bustle of city life while enjoying the comfort of the protected nature reservation. Many walking paths wind through the Fells, just be careful running or biking, it can get steep and rocky!
Mystic Lake is another great opportunity to get outside and go swimming when the weather is warm (or cold, if you want a polar plunge). You can run, walk, bike, or drive just over 2 miles down Boston Avenue to the Tufts Bacow Sailing Pavilion or Mystic Lakes State Park to enjoy some freshwater swimming. The Tufts Bacow Sailing Pavilion, home of the Tufts Sailing Pavilion offers docks to chill out on or jump off, while the State Park offers a nice sandy beach for wading and swimming as well.
Whether it is going to one of these locations or exploring something new, it is great to get outside and go on an adventure! Green spaces and waterways both provide opportunities for recreation, exercise, and relaxation, promoting well-being. These areas are vital for connecting with nature and connecting with the outdoors.