Stride StoriesRunning tour · Boston
Pond to the Arboretum
1.9 mi run
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The stories on this route
Olmsted Park
Look out over Leverett Pond, the open water in a mostly wooded park, and find its islands. The National Park Service calls this whole park man-made.
Pinebank
Look at the grass rectangle outlined in granite, set flush with the ground. That's the outline of a mansion called Pinebank, and it had more lives than most.
Jamaica Pond
Look across Jamaica Pond. It's a kettle hole, left behind by retreating glaciers. About 68 acres, and 51 feet deep at the center. It's the largest body of fresh water in Boston, and it was an early water source for the city.
Soldiers Monument
Look up at the granite monument where Centre and South Streets fork, and the soldier on top, leaning on his musket. The 1871 book of the dedication describes him as "contemplating in sorrow the loss of his comrades." Look through the pointed arches for the obelisk inside.
Loring-Greenough House
Look at the square Georgian house set back behind the fence, with a balustrade crowning its hipped roof. It's the last of Jamaica Plain's many country estates from its time.
Arnold Arboretum
Look through the main gate, at the trees with their labels. This is the Arnold Arboretum, North America's first public arboretum.
Stories researched October 2026 · every fact checked against a source
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