The Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle, which runs every May at the Blessing of the Bay Boathouse in Somerville and celebrates the return of the river herring, includes a 5K run/walk race and three paddle distances and our FREE bike ride.

This year, starting at 10am, our friends at Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA), will have a “Herring on Wheels” themed art installation with a roller skating performance and music, family friendly activities, and vendors. Experience the sights and sounds at the Boathouse before we lead a family friendly 11 mile bike ride at 11am.

There is a price for the run & paddle aspects of the event. For anyone that’s looking to join/ participate in the 5K event before the Bike portion (please register using this link) – please use the access code: PARTNER2025 – It’s a 25% discount code.

There are no financial obligations to attend the bike ride. Anyone is welcome to join the ride for free, but only after filling out our waiver (at least once every year). And if you don’t have a 2025 Bike to the Sea Membership then you can only go on 1 ride organized by Bike to the Sea per year. Basic memberships cost $30 and are available here.

Parking – On street parking is available. Additionally, parking at the Somerville District Courthouse, 175 Fellsway, is a .5 mile walk to the Boathouse.

You may view the route map on Ride with GPS.

You can also make a general donation to MyRWA at any time here to thank the organization for keeping the Mystic River and its surrounding communities beautiful and healthy.

Note: please check this page on Bike to the Sea's website for the latest updates and info for this event.