Overview

Who We Are

The Friends of the Milford Upper Charles Trail is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the safe use of and maintenance of the Upper Charles Trail in Milford, MA

What is It?

The Upper Charles Trail is a proposed 25-mile trail that will incorporate the communities of Milford, Ashland, Sherborn, Holliston, and Hopkinton, linking the towns via an abandoned CSX rail bed. Milford was the first town to open a complete 6.58 mile section and it extends from the town center north to the Hopkinton town line, east to the town of Holliston, and south to the Milford Senior Center.

What We Do

The Friends promote the use of the Trail year-round through social media, TV, the Web, and print. We also coordinate with several Town of Milford boards on maintenance issues and enhancements to the trail.

How you can Help

If you like the trail, then please consider becoming a member. Membership starts at just $10 annually. Donations can be made through PayPal or by mailing a check to the Milford Town Hall.

Trail Stats

Total Distance: 6.58 miles

Source: Milford Upper Charles Trail Committee Final Report (March 2024)

Meetings and Events

Meeting Information

Milford Town Library
80 Spruce St
Milford, MA 01757

7PM - 9PM

Upcoming Meetings

  • June 3rd, 2026

Upcoming Events

Notices

Community Bag - May 2026

During the month of May, purchase a reusable Community Bag at the Milford Stop & Shop or Shaws to send a $1 donation to Friends of the Milford Upper Charles Trail!
Please consider purchasing a bag or two during the month of May and spread the word to friends and neighbors.
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Crossing Signals

There have been reports of traffic lights malfunctioning along the trail crossings by some trail users. If you experience this or any other problems crossing the street, please notify the Milford Parks Department at 774-462-3311.

Vegetation Removal Work

The Town of Milford, Parks Department is removing overgrown vegetation along the trail on an ongoing basis. This work is necessary to ensure that vegetation does not encroach upon the trail and to make the trail safe for all users. This may include the removal of nearby trees if they may be a hazard to trail users following inclement weather. Please use caution and proceed slowly when passing work zones.

Trail Use in Winter

While the Milford Trail is open year-round, it is not cleared of snow and ice in the winter months. Here are some tips for safely using the trail in winter weather:
  • Cycling: using a "fatbike" with tires 3-inches wide or wider can provide some flotation over snow. Fitting winter tires, with studs, to your regular bike can provide grip on ice and in snow. Bring bright lights (and spares, if battery powered) due to the reduced daylight hours in winter.
  • Hiking / walking: wear sturdy, lugged, and warm boots in addition to your normal winter wear if heading out on the trail. Bring one flashlight per person, even if heading out in daytime, due to reduced daylight hours. Add metal cleats to your boots for grip on ice. If the trail is covered in deep snow, then grab some snowshoes or cross-country skis. Use caution (remove skis) when crossing roadways.

Trail Reminders and Recommendations

For the safety, health & enjoyment of everyone, Please be aware of the following:
  • Recommended hours of use: Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset.
  • Dogs must be leashed at all times per the town of Milford By-Laws.
  • Remember to "Scoop the Poop".
  • Let people know you're passing by by saying: "passing on your left".
  • Cross intersections safely: observe flashing Red beacons, STOP and LOOK BOTH WAYS before stepping into the roadway.
  • Mile markers are located on paved area designated with a letter (ex. Trail A, 1/4 mile) in an emergency call 911 and provide letter and mile marker.
  • Leave no trace behind PLEASE HELP we keep our trail clean.