The Middlesex Fells Reservation, more commonly know as The Fells, is located just seven miles north of Boston. The Fells is over 2000 acres in size, has over 25 miles of trails and is owned and managed by the DCR. For more information about the Middlesex Fells, visit the DCR's website or the local Friends group at http://www.fells.org.

Because of its location and beauty, the Fells has become a victim of its own success. Previous years of overuse and a lack of trail maintenance have led to a significant conflict among trail users. Some groups have even suggested that mountain bikes be BANNED from the Fells!

In 1996 NEMBA, under the direction of Mark Wickersham and Krisztina Holly, organized the NEMBA/Merlin Trail Maintenance Series and the New England Mountain Bike Patrol. Both of these programs have been a tremendous success and have helped ease the user conflict in the Fells. For more information about the Patrol, visit the Middlesex Fells Trails Patrol page. For upcoming maintenance days check the Events page.

If you ride the Fells, please obey DCR policy in regards to mountain bike use. Abuse of the property and/or regulations could lead to an all-out ban of mountain biking. MDC policy states that all singletrack trails are closed to mountain bikes except for the sections on the designated NEMBA Mountain Bike Loop. Follow this link to see a map of the Fells Mountain Bike Loop.

The NEMBA Loop is a 6.3 mile ride which is very well signed in both directions. It offers some tough climbs, fun descents, and is about one third legal single track! The loop is easily accessible from the three main parking areas. Simply follow the red To the Loop signs and have a great ride.

Remember, always ride softly and responsibly !!

MDC Mountain Bike Policy

• All single track is off limits to montian bikes unless otherwise marked.
• Mountain bikes are permitted on fire roads thoughout the park, unless marked closed.
• The MDC requires all mountain bikers to wear a helmet.
• The park is closes at night to all users.
• The MDC closes the park to mountain bikes annually, from January 1 - April 15.

NEMBA Suggestions

• If you live nearby (within a five mile radius) please ride, instead of drive, to the Fells. This will help--
  • Reduce congestion in crowded parking lots
    (Vehicle's parked illegally will be towed)
  • Mountain bikers keep a lower profile
  • Keep you in better shape
• Keep group sizes to no more than five
• Avoid riding in wet conditions

Contacts For More Information

Tom Grimble
Middlesex Fells Coordinator - NEMBA
tgrimble@comcast.net

DCR North Region Office
4 Woodland Rd.
Stoneham, MA
(781)662-5230