Learn About America’s Independence on Battle Road Trail

Step into one of the most significant hours in America’s history with a hike or bicycle trip along Battle Road Trail in Lexington, Massachusetts. The pathway follows the route of the Minute Men, who gathered in Lexington to stop the advancing British troops intent on capturing the Patriot’s stockpile of weapons and munitions in Concord.

As the British marched on toward Concord, more Patriots learned of the raid and more members of the militia poured in from nearby towns, harassing the British advance by firing from behind trees and stone walls.

Today, the route between Lexington and Concord is a wide, peaceful path through forests and riverside wetlands, traveled by walkers and visitors on bicycles, wheelchairs and strollers. And the only things hiding in the trees and behind the stone walls are birds and small woodland animals.

Walk or bike the entire 5-mile route at once or drive between major points and walk the shorter sections. You’ll want to stop at several of the historic houses open to visitors, and at Minute Man Visitors Center, near Jacob Whittemore House. Begin at the center to pick up a map of the route showing the events of April 19, 1775.

The trail ends at Meriam House, and a drive along Lexington Road leads past Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women. From the center of Concord, follow Monument Road to the famous North Bridge, scene of the battle when the Minutemen faced the British troops, forcing their retreat.

This was the first battle of the American Revolution. At the bridge, you’ll see the well-known statue of the Minute Man.