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Central MA Rail Trail (Sterling)
4.5 ★★★★★ 68 Google reviews · Running trail in Sterling, Massachusetts · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Central MA Rail Trail (Sterling)'s own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Dog-free trail running through a wetland and woodlands with wildlife and 2 parking lots.
What runners say about Central MA Rail Trail (Sterling)
“Beautiful and largely flat stretch of trail running along the water in parts and then through the woods.”
Great place for all ages: walk, wheelchair, bicycle, stroller/carriage, and children’s bikes. This section of the trail has a parking area at both ends. Portajohn at the parking area near the cider mill shop off Waushacum Ave.
This is a great section of the rail trail. It goes along the shore of West Waushacum Pond then between it and another body of water called The Quag. It also goes over a bridge where the two ponds meet. Very popular with bicycles and hikers, there is a good sized lot at the southern end of the section on Gates Rd.
A wonderful place for a walk or run any time of year. If you're a runner, then you'll enjoy the soft and smooth surface under your feet, which is a lot more pleasant (and safer!) than road running. I've seen all kinds of wildlife while walking the trail including a bald eagle, a great blue heron, and swans.
Beautiful and largely flat stretch of trail running along the water in parts and then through the woods. We'll maintained and good for biking, walking and running. From the bridge (being rebuilt in July 2022) are good views of Mt. Wachusett across the water on a clear day.
Trail conditions & character
“If you want to bike around here I suggest you go the the Gates Road parking lot.”
“Beautiful and largely flat stretch of trail running along the water in parts and then through the woods.”
“People brings dogs and in the fall it is magical tons of nice benches to talk and make memories.”
“Trail and mainly flat with a few minimally rocky areas but nothing a stroller can't handle so don't be afraid to take a nice walk with the baby.”
“Trail and mainly flat with a few minimally rocky areas but nothing a stroller can't handle so don't be afraid to take a nice walk with the baby.”
“This trail has no elevation, all flat packed cinder, wide enough for several people to walk side-by-side.”
“Portajohn at the parking area near the cider mill shop off Waushacum Ave.”
Plan your run at Central MA Rail Trail (Sterling)
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewachusettgreenways.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Sterling
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
North Dike - Wachusett Reservoir
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Tranquil open space with views and a walking path, plus a reservoir to fish in.
Mass Central Rail Trail (West Boylston)
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Hiking, biking, and dog walking are allowed on this quiet trail with picnic tables.
Trout Brook Recreation Area
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Kid-friendly place with clean facilities featuring woodland trails for hiking, biking and running.
Wachusett Dam and Wachusett Reservoir
4.8 ★★★★★ 332 reviews
Park on 2.2 square miles around a reservoir, offering picnicking, hiking, winter sports & fishing.
Central Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 425 reviews
Small park featuring shady trees, benches, a fountain and a sculpture honoring Spanish War vets.
