The Waltham section of the Charles River Bike Path follows the river, passing through parks, historic sites, and residential neighborhoods. The path is mostly paved and flat, with some sections of gravel and dirt. The path connects to other trails in the area, such as the Minuteman Bikeway and the Mass Central Rail Trail. 

The Charles River Bike Path also referred to as the Charles River Greenway, offers a paved, 22-mile route from Boston to its western suburbs. The trail is also part of a larger, developing network called the East Coast Greenway, which stretches from Maine to Florida.

A large section of the trail, beginning on its eastern end and extending 16 miles, is named after Dr. Paul Dudley White, a prominent cardiologist and proponent of preventative medicine such as exercise. This Dr. Paul Dudley White Bike Path hugs each side of the Charles River through Boston, Cambridge, and Watertown.

In many sections of the route, there are multiple parallel trail options for those who prefer an unpaved surface or would like to stay further from the road activity. Several architecturally interesting bridges will greet you as you enter Cambridge from Boston, allowing you to create shorter routes on both sides of the river as opposed to the larger loop. While busy roads parallel the trail on both sides of the river, most of the route has trees and green space along the way. Along the way, you can enjoy watching boats skim by and even try your hand at a variety of water sports that are available to the public at numerous locations.