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This page describes some of my favorite bike routes in the mid-Atlantic region. All these routes are suitable for hybrid or similar bicycles. Titles shown in red are pending completion. |
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This page describes some of my favorite bike routes in the mid-Atlantic region. All these routes are suitable for hybrid or similar bicycles. Titles shown in red are pending completion. |
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I used to have lots of cue sheets. Now I realize that there are many phone apps that automate this process and allow the information to be shared with other devices. I expect it is just a matter of time before I start using this technology and share it via this web page. But I'm not there yet. If you have suggestions for such apps that are free, easy to use, and interact with a wide range of devices (including desktops), please let me know. |
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This state-centric page describes the bicycling routes I've ridden or intend to ride in the mid-Atlantic region. It is very focused on Maryland and Washington, D.C. Please send me an email if you find
I do not intend to list every bike route in the mid-Atlantic region but if I've biked it, I will list it along with some good places to access the route. In 2021-2022, I started using a Google Maps application programming interface (API) to simplify the reporting process, linking my notes to a map that also links back to my notes. I also spent a lot of time learning JavaScript so I could create clickable maps to enable readers to find access points using a graphical user interface (GUI). Hopefully, the time I invested into creating this website will make it easier for you to find and get to your destination, thereby minimizing your effort and maximizing your time and enjoyment bicycling. For the maps that I've created, left click on the marker to display a choice of hyperlinks: Get Directions: Clicking this pulls up a Google Maps page that will show the access point and allow you to click on the "Directions" button so you can enter your location and get directions to the access point or parking area. Saki notes: Clicking this will take you back to my text writeup of the route where you may find links to my blogs for this area. I tried to be thorough in reporting the location of the access point and where to park. I often do not report hours and fees because they are subject to change so I recommend checking out any links I post to get this information. Pay attention to the "Date last updated" field. If it is recent, you can be assured it is accurate, but things change over time so if I haven't been there for awhile, then don't take my word as law. Happy bicycling!  |
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LOCATION: As of 2024, this Sussex County, Delaware trail goes from Lewes to Milton. Eventually, it will extend to Georgetown.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 17, 2024 NOTES: This ~10-mile trail can be linked with other trails/roads to form a scenic and easy 15-mile loop. BLOGS: June 17, 2024 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Delaware Greenways - Georgetown-Lewes Trail TrailLink - Georgetown-Lewes Trail AllTrails - Georgetown-Lewes Trail Wolfe Neck / Gordons Pond route The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Gills Neck Road
Public Library
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LOCATION: Cape Henlopen State Park to Rehoboth Beach, Sussex County, Delaware.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 17, 2024 NOTES: This 5.2-mile gravel trail can be linked with other trails/roads to form a scenic and easy 15-mile loop. BLOGS: June 17, 2024 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Delaware Greenways - Gordons Pond Trail TrailLink - Gordons Pond Trail Delmarva Trails & Waterways - Cape Henlopen State Park: Gordon's Pond Trail Wolfe Neck / Gordons Pond route The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Dune Road
Ocean Drive
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LOCATION: Rehoboth Beach to Lewes, Sussex County, Delaware.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 17, 2024 NOTES: This 5.8-mile trail can be linked with other trails/roads to form a scenic and easy 15-mile loop. BLOGS: June 17, 2024 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Delaware Greenways - Junction & Breakwater Trail Lewes Chamber of Commerce - Junction and Breakwater: Biking and Hiking Trail TrailLink - Junction & Breakwater Trail AllTrails - Junction and Breakwater Trail Wolfe Neck / Gordons Pond route The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Gills Neck Road
Public Library
Wolfe Neck Road
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LOCATION: The ride is roughly between Leonardtown in Saint Marys County, Maryland almost to La Plata in Charles County, Maryland.
I choose to start and end at College Circle parking lot at the College of Southern Maryland, Leonardtown Campus which is on the southeast side of the route. Saint Mary's County ADC map 16 B3. See map. DATE LAST UPDATED: April 24, 2016 NOTES: There are various rides that go by this same name. The one described here is a somewhat flat 103-mile circuit route on southern Maryland roads. It is called Amish 100 because it goes by a lot of Amish land. Here's a map I put together that has the mileage in green, small road names added, and possible rest stops in red. And here's a cue sheet from the source that I put into a single page where you can see everything at once. Smaller font text in the cue sheet are my notes, and not from the source. I found the mileage to be dead on accurate. My notes, not as much. There is once or twice where I say to ride to the end of the road but that is not the case though it looked that way on the map at the time. I just haven't gotten around to updating my notes. On the cue sheet, it mentions a rest stop around mile 56.65. We never found that. BLOGS: April 24, 2016 |
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LOCATION: This 13-16.1-mile (depending on the source) paved rail trail runs from Glen Burnie to Annapolis in Anne Arundel County.
DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: The northern side of the trail has higher elevation than the southern side. Consider combining this trail with the BWI Trail via the John Overstreet Connector. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Anne Arundel County - B&A Trail Bike Washington - Baltimore & Annapolis Trail TrailLink - B&A Trail: Map shows public parking access AllTrails - B&A Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: North Lot
Kinder Farm Park
West Earleigh Heights Road
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LOCATION: This 11-12.5-mile (depending on the source) paved trail circumnavigates the BWI Airport.
DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: Consider combining this trail with the B&A Trail via the John Overstreet Connector. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Bike Washington - The BWI Trail TrailLink - BWI Trail: Map shows public parking access. BWI Airport - The BWI Hiker-Biker Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Andover Park
Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area
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LOCATION: Various options for this route are all centered around the scenic and natural Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Dorchester County.
Many people park and commence their ride at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 2145 Key Wallace Drive Cambridge, MD 21613-9536. Dorchester County ADC map 29 G2. See map. Here, you'll find a restroom, plenty of parking, and route maps. But if you plan on being out after they close, you should consider one of the many other parking options at the Chesapeake Living link shown below. PHONE: 410-228-2677 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: If you like natural scenery and hate hills, this might be a good choice. Most of it is on roads that receive light traffic. This area is popular with birdwatchers. Keep your eyes open for bald eagles. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge - Biking Friends of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Chesapeake Living - How to Soar Through Blackwater Wildlife Refuge? On a Bike!: This shows good places to park Ride with GPS - Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge |
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LOCATION: This 19.7-mile Baltimore County, Maryland rail trail reaches its southern terminus at Ashland Road in the Hunt Valley area (Cockeysville) to its northern terminus at the Mason-Dixon Line.
The northernmost part of the trail ends in Pennsylvania and continues as the Heritage Rail Trail County Park. PHONE: 410-592-2897 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: The trail is eight to ten feet wide with a stone dust surface and little change in elevation, though the northern side is slightly higher. The most popular activities on the trail are hiking, jogging, bicycle riding, and horseback riding. While it is not paved, it is quite hard. The trail from Monkton and further south often receive heavy use on weekends and the parking in these areas may be filled by late morning on a nice day. In 2007, the Board of Public Works approved the renaming of the North Central Railroad (NCR) Trail to the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail. The board also approved the dedication of the trail's Monkton Train Station in honor of Dr. Brown, who served as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) secretary under Governors Harry R. Hughes and William Donald Schaefer from 1983 to 1995. Brown was the major driving force in developing the abandoned North Central Railroad as the state's first multi-use recreational trail, which was dedicated in 1984. This trail is part of Gunpowder Falls State Park. BLOGS: November 17, 2007 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Maryland DNR - Gunpowder Falls State Park - Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail TrailLink - Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail: Map shows places to park NCR Trail Snails Bike Washington - The Northern Central & York County Heritage Trails Bike Washington - Northern Central Railroad Trail - Northern Section Bike Washington - Northern Central Railroad Trail - Middle Section Bike Washington - Northern Central Railroad Trail - Southern Section The following sites are listed in order of south to north: Ashland
Paper Mill
Phoenix
Sparks
Glencoe
Monkton
Parkton
Bentley Springs
Freeland
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LOCATION: This one-way, 4.3-mile dirt road connects Patuxent River Park with Merkle Natural Resources Management Area in Prince George's County.
The CADT starts at Selby's Landing. PHONE: 301-627-6074 and 443-510-9920 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: Hours are limited. Check the Maryland DNR link shown below to find out when it is open to the public. Consider a combination bike/hike route where you bike along the CADT and stop to hike all the short foot trails that branch from it. If you do this, you can expect the following: I highly recommend doing this ride as the Patuxent River Park to Merkle Natural Resources Management Area Loop. BLOGS: April 2, 2006, March 4, 2007 and May 26, 2007 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Maryland DNR - Critical Area Driving Tour |
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LOCATION: This six-mile trail takes one from the west side of Kent Island, Maryland to the east side and across Kent Narrows to Long Point Park.
DATE LAST UPDATED: July 30, 2022 BLOGS: February 6, 2011 and July 30, 2022 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The Cross Island Trail - Kent Island The following sites are listed in order of west to east: Terrapin Nature Park
Old Love Point Park
Long Point Park
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LOCATION: This paved rail trail runs about 2.5 miles north/south in Easton, Maryland near the historic district.
DATE LAST UPDATED: April 10, 2021 NOTES: This trail is well maintained and tree-lined. It is a very pleasant place to explore. You can bike it but since it is pretty short, I suggest walking it. Biking through the historic district can be a little tough because of all the traffic along the main roads but on the quieter roads, it is really nice. There is a great public restroom at 38.784778, -76.065917 in ROTC Park. South of this restroom are various dirt trails that run through an open grassy area and then to North Fork Tanyard Branch. These are separate from the rail trail. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Discover Easton - Easton Rails-To-Trails TrailLink - Easton Rails-To-Trails The following sites are listed in order of north to south: A. James Clark Sports Complex
Magnolia Street
Dutchmans Lane
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LOCATION: This is a 15-mile linear greenway trail in western and southwestern Baltimore City, Maryland.
PHONE: 410-396-0440 NOTES: The eastern half of the trail is largely through urban areas. You'll ride through industrial sections of the city along with the nice Federal Hill area. Catch a bite to eat at the numerous small restaurants in Federal Hill...just be forewarned that many are closed on Sunday. Most of the trail has signs. Many are the generic looking green "bike lane" signs while others read "Gwynn Falls Trail." If you stick to these signs and have a copy of the Gwynn Falls Trail Map, you should be fine. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Gwynn Falls Trail TrailLink - Gwynn Falls Trail Baltimore City - Department of Recreation and Parks - Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park The following sites are listed in order of east to west: Broening Park
Carroll Park Golf Course
Leon Day Park
Winan Meadow at Leakin Park
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LOCATION: This trail follows Henson Creek in Prince George's County, Maryland.
PHONE: 301-699-2255 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: This trail is only 5.7 miles long and paved. BLOGS: January 13, 2008 and April 12, 2008 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Prince George's County, Maryland - Department of Parks and Recreation - Henson Creek Trail TrailLink - Henson Creek Trail AllTrails - Henson Creek Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Temple Hill Road
Fort Foote Road
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LOCATION: This rail trail runs from Indian Head to White Plains in Charles County, Maryland.
PHONE: 301-932-3470 DATE LAST UPDATED: July 4, 2020 NOTES: This 13-mile paved rail trail is flat, well-maintained, and quite popular. The western side is more open and sunny while the eastern side is more shaded. There are lots of nice water views of Mattawoman Creek and natural marsh land. Various parking lots with porta-johns or real restrooms dot various parts of the trail. It is very smooth and good for skating, which is permitted. BLOGS: August 20, 2016 and July 4, 2020 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Charles County, Maryland - Indian Head Rail Trail TrailLink - Indian Head Rail Trail Facebook - Indian Head Rail Trail The following sites are listed in order of west to east: Mattingly Avenue
Bensville Park Spur
Theodore Green Boulevard
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LOCATION: This trail runs mostly north/south in the western half of Baltimore City.
DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: This is an 11-mile paved trail. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Jones Falls Trail Jones Falls Trail Connected! - Map TrailLink - Jones Falls Trail: Map shows places to park The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Western Run Park
Inner Harbor
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LOCATION: This 6.4-mile (some sources say 7.2) trail runs mostly north/south in Montgomery and Prince George's Counties, Maryland. Much of it passes through the scenic Fairland Park and Little Paint Branch Park.
NOTES: Many of the paved paths in Montgomery County, Prince Georges County, and Washington, D.C. are networked together (see Northeast Branch Trail) so finding a reasonably safe route to one gives opens up a gateway of biking opportunities to the others. If you live near Savage, then this is the closest of these trails that I know of and it isn't too difficult or dangerous to access the northern side on an early weekend morning. Once you pick up the trail, it is pretty easy to follow. Look for the blue dashed centerline. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TrailLink - Little Paint Branch Trail AllTrails - Little Paint Branch Park and Bike Path TrailForks - Little Paint Branch Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Fairland Park - Gardens Ice House
Cross Creek Park
Beltsville West Park
Beltsville Community Center
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LOCATION: This route passes through three lovely towns in Talbot County, Maryland: Easton, Oxford, and Saint Michaels.
One good place to park is Bradley Park, which is located at the north terminus of the Saint Michaels Nature Trail. This is on the south side of Railroad Avenue, at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and North Street, Saint Michaels, Maryland 21663. Talbot County ADC map 11 K3. See map. Other parking options are shown at the Chesapeake Living link shown below. DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: This 30+ mile, lollipop route is one I learned from Tom and Christine of the Maryland Outdoor Club. One of the features of this route is taking the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry across the Tred Avon River. Be sure to check the ferry hours, prices, and confirm that it is running before commencing this ride. Only a one way ferry trip will be needed. There is a porta-john at both ends of the ferry. BLOGS: June 9, 2007 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Chesapeake Living - The Oxford Loop: This shows good places to park Bike Washington - Oxford Loop Ride with GPS - St. Michaels/Oxford Loop |
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LOCATION: This 16.2-mile bicycle ride from Patuxent River Park to Merkle Natural Resources Management Area is a loop that passed through the Critical Area Driving Tour (CADT), heads to the Wildlife Sanctuary, then returns on paved street roads.
Start at the Patuxent River Park Visitor Center. Prince George's County ADC map 27 J11. See map. DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: The following is a cue sheet: BLOGS: May 26, 2007 |
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LOCATION: This seven-mile paved trail runs north/south and parallel to Romancoke Road (route 8) on Kent Island, Maryland.
DATE LAST UPDATED: August 2, 2014 NOTES: This trail is also known as the Kent Island South Trail. To lengthen the ride, explore some of the neighborhoods on the south end. BLOGS: August 2, 2014 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TrailLink - Kent Island South Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Matapeake
Romancoke
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LOCATION: In 2012, I did this organized ride which started and ended at Carroll Park, 1500 Washington Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21230. Baltimore City and County ADC map 42 H2. See map.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 10, 2012 NOTES: Here are the maps and cue sheets we were given for this ride. BLOGS: June 10, 2012 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Tour dem Parks, Hon! through Baltimore's parks and trails |
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LOCATION: This trip is described as
A 100-mile cycling route through Maryland's only seaside county, featuring great rural landscapes, curious and historic towns and villages, spectacular waterfronts, abundant travel amenities, and more nature than one could possibly imagine. The trip begins in Berlin, Maryland... Start and end at Main (route 818) and Broad Streets, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Worcester County ADC map 7 D11. See map. DATE LAST UPDATED: August 15, 2010 NOTES: If you hate hills and traffic, then this is the route for you. It is pretty scenic. Much of the south section goes by corn fields. You'll get some odors from the chicken farms but out in the country on the Maryland eastern shore, that is hard to avoid. Some of the west side is through wooded terrain. The only bad traffic I encountered was briefly in Pocomoke City. I first learned about this route after picking up a lovely "ViewTrail 100 - Explore Maryland's Beach & Beyond by Bike" brochure. Not sure where I got it but you can request one from Maryland - Worcester County, Maryland. I am not aware of any public restrooms along the route. Your best bet is to just find a fast food restaurant in Berlin or Pocomoke City. Unfortunately, there aren't too many of these in Berlin but if you are starting here, it may not matter much. I recommend packing some hydration drink mix powders and refilling your water bottle in Pocomoke City. In Pocomoke City, I suggest taking a short detour to where Linden Avenue turns into Old Snow Hill Road (route 756) at Ocean Highway (route 13) at 38.075159, -75.558997. There are fast food restaurants here that wouldn't mind if you used their restroom if you bought yourself a little something to eat too. BLOGS: Challenge Weekend 2010 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Map My Ride - ViewTrail 100 Bivy - ViewTrail 100 |
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LOCATION: As of January 2023, the WB&A trail is comprised of two discontiguous sections. The Prince George's County part contains six completed miles. Neighboring Anne Arundel County has completed about three miles between Odenton and the Piney Orchard community. These sections are separated by the Patuxent River.
NOTES: In June 2023, a $5 million bridge will be built over the Patuxent River to connect the [two parts of the] trail: The idea behind the WB&A Trail goes back nearly 30 years, and for more than a decade, parks and rec departments in Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties in Maryland have worked to make it a reality. The Patuxent River has been a sticking point since day one, but on Friday, local officials and advocates gathered to break ground on work to finally literally bridge that one dividing line. But within about a year, a $5 million bridge will help create a single, roughly 15-mile trail that also provides another crossing from Bowie to western Anne Arundel County. - from WTOP News - Final piece of Md. trail decades in the making finally coming together ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Anne Arundel County - WB&A Trail Bike Washington - WB&A Trail The following sites are listed in order of north to south: Piney Orchard Parkway
Patuxent Road
Race Track Road
Glenarden
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LOCATION: This rail trail parallels the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Towpath and the Potomac River in Allegany County and Washington County, Maryland.
PHONE: 301-842-2155 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: This is a 28-mile paved trail. It is very scenic. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Maryland DNR - Western Maryland Rail Trail Bike Washington - Western Maryland Rail Trail AllTrails - Western Maryland Rail Trail Great Allegheny Passage - Western Maryland Rail Trail TrailLink - Western Maryland Rail Trail The following sites are listed in order of west to east: Little Orleans
Big Pool
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LOCATION: This is a 69.5-mile long rail trail that runs largely along the Raritan Canal from Frenchtown, New Jersey to Trenton, New Jersey, and then to New Brunswick, New Jersey.
DATE LAST UPDATED: April 16, 2017 NOTES: This trail is sometimes referred to as the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. From the New Brunswick terminus to the Delaware River in Trenton is about 31 miles. I don't believe there is camping anywhere near the trail here. What does this trail pass by? BLOGS: April 15, 2017 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Trail sign map - Trenton at south end Trail sign map - Delaware River TrailLink - Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail TrailLink - Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail - Itinerary New Jersey State Park Service - Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park #32 in The 50 Best Bike Trails in America - Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park D&R Canal Towpath Ride - A Tour Guide for Cyclists Wikipedia - Delaware and Raritan Canal HikingGuy - Delaware Canal State Park Towpath Hike The following sites are listed in order of west to east: Milford
Calhoun Street Bridge
Lake Carnegie
New Brunswick
Johnson Park
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LOCATION: This is a 2.5-mile long rail trail.
The south terminus is at Delaware Canal State Park, 150 Basin Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania 19007. This is where Mill Creek flows into the Delaware River, northwest of Burlington Island. New Jersey Delorme map page 47 F23. I'm sure you can find this on the Pennsylvania Delorme map too but I prefer to use the New Jersey one because this trail connects to a network of trails in New Jersey. See map. PHONE: 610-982-5560 DATE LAST UPDATED: April 16, 2017 NOTES: There is plenty of parking at the south terminus. This will put you within a mile of the south terminus of the D&L and Delaware Canal Trail/Towpath. BLOGS: April 16, 2017 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TrailLink - Bristol Spurline Park |
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LOCATION: The Delaware and Lehigh (D&L), Delaware Canal Trail, and Delaware Canal Towpath comprise a 60-mile trail that runs along the Delaware River from Easton, Pennsylvania to Bristol, Pennsylvania.
DATE LAST UPDATED: April 16, 2017 NOTES: At least some parts of this trail is comprised of rail trail and/or towpath. Much of the trail parallels the Delaware and Raritan trail on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River between Frenchtown, New Jersey and Trenton, New Jersey. A good loop is to go up on one side and down on the other. One can cross from one side to the other at the Calhoun Street Bridge. From Morrisville, Pennsylvania to the Easton terminus is 53 miles. What does this trail pass by? BLOGS: April 16, 2017 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Trail sign map - Trenton at south end Trail sign map - Delaware River Delaware & Lehigh - National Heritage Corridor Wikipedia - Pennsylvania Canal (Delaware Division) USA Today - Cycling Along the Delaware Canal TrailLink - D&L Trail, Delaware Canal Towpath The following sites are listed in order of north to south: North Point
Hugh Moore Park Road
Bristol
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LOCATION: Chester and Lancaster Counties, Pennsylvania.
DATE LAST UPDATED: April 16, 2024 NOTES: This is a ~29-mile crushed gravel rail trail. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TrailLink - Enola Low Grade Trail Susquehanna Greenway Partnership - Enola Low Grade Rail Trail AllTrails - Enola Low Grade Trail The following sites are listed in order of west to east: Turkey Hill Nature Preserve
Atlgen
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LOCATION: This 27.4-mile rail trail in York County, Pennsylvania extends from the Mason-Dixon Line in the south to the John C. Rudy County Park in the north.
The southernmost part of the trail ends in Maryland and continues as the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail. PHONE: 717-840-7440 DATE LAST UPDATED: Before 2010 NOTES: This trail was previously known as the York County Heritage Trail. The northern sections tend to be more natural while the southern sections pass through small towns. BLOGS: November 17, 2007 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: York PA - Heritage Rail Trail County Park York County Rail Trail Authority - Heritage Rail Trail County Park TrailLink - Heritage Rail Trail County Park: Map shows places to park Bike Washington - The Northern Central & York County Heritage Trails York County Heritage Trail - Northern Section York County Heritage Trail - Southern Section The following sites are listed in order of south to north: Freeland
Orwig Road
New Freedom
Railroad
Glen Rock
Hanover Junction
Seven Valleys
Brillhart Station
North Pershing Avenue
Hamilton Avenue
Arsenal Road (route 30)
John C. Rudy Park
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LOCATION: The 62-mile long Pine Creek Rail Trail passes through the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania in the north-central part of the state.
NOTES: While the trail is spectacular, be sure to make time for exploring the multitude of neighboring trails if you can. In the springtime, consider kayaking, rafting, or tubing down the creek. I highly recommend sticking to the major roads when driving to your destination. Just because you see a road on your map doesn't mean it will easily take you where you want to go. The best part of the rail trail, in terms of scenery, is the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. The West Rim Trail is the much-talked-about backpacking trail in the area. One can find a nice day hike at Bee Tree Ski Trail if you can find the trails and are willing to do a little bushwhacking. BLOGS: February 15, 2009, July 3-5, 2009, October 10-12, 2009, and August 15, 2022 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Launch Sites - Pine Creek Gorge PA Canyon - Pine Creek Rail Trail TrailLink - Pine Creek Rail Trail: Good source for trail access Visit Potter-Tioga - Pine Creek Gorge Pine Creek Outfitters: These guys rent bikes, can provide shuttle service, and have a lot of good information Pine Creek Valley - Pine Creek Rail Trail - Rail Trail Parking Areas: Good source for trail access Wikipedia - Pine Creek Rail Trail The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Butler Access Area / Wellsboro Junction
Marsh Creek
Big Meadows Canoe Access Area - Ansonia
Robert McCullough Jr. Pine Creek Access - Blackwell
Ramsey Village
South Terminus
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LOCATION: This trail runs along parts of the Ohio River, Monongahela River, and Allegheny River in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
DATE LAST UPDATED: Unexplored NOTES: This is a 33-mile trail. It overlaps slightly with the Great Allegheny Passage at Point State Park. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Friends of the Riverfront - Three Rivers Heritage Trail American Trails - Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Pennsylvania TrailLink - Three Rivers Heritage Trail |
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LOCATION: Eastern shore of Virginia.
NOTES: As of 2024, The future ESVA Rail Trail will be a 49-mile walking and biking trail along the historic Eastern Shore railroad corridor. For the safety of all, the rail corridor is not yet open to the public. Instead, pay a visit to the Southern Tip Bike and Hike Trail. - from Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Southern Tip Bike and Hike Trail
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LOCATION: The Mount Vernon Trail was created in 1973 by the National Park Service. Its 18.5 miles passes along the Potomac River, next to the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The trail goes from Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, to Theodore Roosevelt Island in the Potomac River near the Lincoln Memorial. It is a paved trail that is excellent for joggers, bicyclists, skaters, or walkers who want a scenic view of the nation's capitol and the Potomac River.
PHONE: 703-289-2500 DATE LAST UPDATED: March 21, 2023 NOTES: This is a very popular trail that gets a lot of use. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: NPS - Mount Vernon Trail TrailLink - Mount Vernon Trail Bike Washington - The Mount Vernon Trail AllTrails - Mount Vernon Trail The Mount Vernon Trail - Connector to American History The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Theodore Roosevelt Island
Lady Bird Johnson Park / Columbia Island Marina
Gravelly Point
Daingerfield Island
Jones Point Park
Belle Haven
Fort Hunt Park
Mount Vernon
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LOCATION: The Virginia Creeper Trail connects Abingdon, Virginia with the Virginia / North Carolina border.
PHONE: Mount Rogers National Recreation Area: 276-783-5196 or 800-628-7202 DATE LAST UPDATED: Unexplored NOTES: This 33.2-mile long rail trail is shared with equestrians. The nickname "Virginia Creeper" came from the early steam locomotives as they slowly struggled up the mountains. In 2014, this trail was inducted in to the Rail-to-Trail Hall of Fame. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Virginia Creeper Trail TrailLink - Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service - Virginia Creeper Trail The following trail access points are listed from west to east: Whitetop
Damascus
Abingdon
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LOCATION: The Anacostia Tributary Trail System, a link in the national shore-to-shore American Discovery Trail, provides miles of uninterrupted trails along the tributaries of the Anacostia River. The southernmost point of the trail is located at Colmar Manor Community Park, and trail spurs extend northeasterly and northwesterly from there along beautiful stream valley parkland. The trail system's continuous greenway traverses a variety of natural environments including woodlands, open fields, and wetlands.
- from Experience Prince George's County - Anacostia Tributary Trail System PHONE: 301-699-2255 DATE LAST UPDATED: Unexplored NOTES: How many miles of trails are in the system? M-NCPPC and Prince George's County Department of Parks and Recreation connected and upgraded the stream valley trails into a consistent network of approximately 24 miles (39 km) of paved 6–10-foot-wide (1.8–3.0 m) off-road paths. - from Wikipedia - Anacostia Tributary Trail System As of 2023, the system is comprised of the following trails: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Anacostia Tributary Trail System TrailLink - Anacostia Tributary Trail System: Map shows public parking access Bike Washington - The Anacostia Tributary Trails Birder's Guide to Maryland & DC - Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Colmar Manor Community Park & Anacostia River Trail Various sources break the system down into smaller pieces. The structure I use is based on Wikipedia - Anacostia Tributary Trail System. Northwest Branch Trail
Northeast Branch Trail
Anacostia River Trail
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LOCATION: The Capital Crescent Trail is an 11 mile rail-trail path that goes from Georgetown in Washington, D.C. to Bethesda, Maryland. It then continues to Silver Spring, Maryland as the Georgetown Branch Trail extension.
DATE LAST UPDATED: Unexplored NOTES: The southern seven miles between Georgetown and Bethesda has a nine-foot wide asphalt surface and is in excellent condition. The northern Georgetown Branch Trail extension provides a crushed gravel surface for the last four miles between Bethesda and Silver Spring. The two parts are connected by a tunnel located under downtown Bethesda. The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Towpath closely parallels the Capital Crescent Trail for a few miles. They meet at Fletcher's Boathouse. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Bike Washington - Capital Crescent Trail Coalition for the Capital Crescent Trail TrailLink - Capital Crescent Trail: Map shows places to park The following trail access points are listed from south to north: K Street NW and 31st Street NW
Bethesda
Georgetown Branch Trail
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LOCATION: Along Pricketts Creek in Marion County, West Virginia.
PHONE: 304-363-7037 DATE LAST UPDATED: July 2, 2011 NOTES: This is a 2.5-mile rail trail which connects to a network of other trails in West Virginia. BLOGS: July 2, 2011 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: West Virginia Rails-to-Trails Council - Marion County Trail (MCTrail) Marion County Parks & Recreation - Rail Trails in Marion County TrailLink - Marion County Trail (MCTrail) The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Prickett's Fort State Park
Winfield Street
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LOCATION: These trails run along the east side of the Monongahela River with the northern side ending at the Pennsylvania / West Virginia border.
At the southern end, one can access the north side of the Marion County Trail (MCTrail). DATE LAST UPDATED: Unexplored NOTES: I don't quite understand why, but the Mon River Trail is divided into a north and south section that are discontiguous. They are linked by the Caperton Trail. Together, these trails are ~29 miles long. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Mon River Trails Conservancy TrailLink - Mon River Trail West Virginia Rail Trails - Caperton Rail Trail TrailLink - Caperton Trail |
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LOCATION: This 14.5-mile trail lies in Harrison County and Marion County in West Virginia.
DATE LAST UPDATED: July 2, 2011 NOTES: This trail follows the southeastern side of the West Fork River. BLOGS: July 2, 2011 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Marion County, West Virginia - West Fork River / Ralph S. Larue Rail Trail National Recreation Trail (NRT) Database - Ralph S. Larue / West Fork Trail TrailLink - West Fork River Trail The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Mary Lou Retton Park
Shinnston
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LOCATION: This trail runs alongside the Chesapeake and Delaware (C&D) Canal from Chesapeake City, Maryland to Delaware City, Delaware. It connects the Chesapeake Bay with the Delaware River passing through Cecil County, Maryland and New Castle County, Delaware.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 13, 2020 NOTES: The Ben Cardin Recreational Trail is 1.8-miles long and is the Maryland portion of this trail system. The Michael N. Castle Trail is the 12.4-mile long section of the canal trail located in the State of Delaware. The east end of the Michael Castle Trail meets up with the trails in Delaware City that continue for another 0.6-miles along the canal and reach to Fort Delaware State Park on the Delaware River. - from "Walk Ride USA - Michael Castle Trail & Ben Cardin Recreational Trail, C&D Canal, Delaware" Open sunrise to sunset. No horses or motorized vehicles. BLOGS: June 13, 2020 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Chesapeake Living - C&D Canal Bike Trail: What You Need to Know on the Scenic Waterfront Ride Delaware Greenways - Michael N. Castle C & D Canal Trail Ride with GPS - C&D Canal Ride Route - Chesapeake City (MD) to Delaware City (DE) MidAtlantic Day Trips - Enjoy a Perfect Bike Ride along the C&D Canal Trail The following trail access points are listed from east to west: Delaware City
Chesapeake City
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LOCATION: The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) canal follows the Potomac River for 184.5 miles from Washington D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland.
PHONE: 301-739-4200 DATE LAST UPDATED: October 12, 2015 NOTES: The canal served as a transportation route from 1828-1924. Many original structures, including locks, lockhouses, and aqueducts, remain standing. The canal's towpath provides a nearly level, unbroken trail through the natural scenery of the Potomac River Valley. The towpath also makes for an easy hike or run. There are plenty of potholes so I don't recommend it for delicate road bikes. This is a great place for bicycle camping. BLOGS: October 9-12, 2015 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Bike Washington - C&O Canal Bicycling Guide National Park Service - Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Fred - Chesapeake and Ohio Canal C&O Canal Association - Access Points: This is the source I use for the mileage shown below. The lowest miles are closest to Washington, D.C. and the highest are closest to Cumberland, Maryland. I have things sorted based on mileage. Fletcher's Boathouse (Mile 3.1)
Carderock / Billy Goat Trail, Sections B & C (~Mile 10.5)
Anglers Inn / Billy Goat Trail, Sections A & B (Mile 12.2)
Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center / Billy Goat Trail, Section A (Mile 14.3)
Violettes Lock (Mile 22.1)
Seneca Landing Park (Mile 22.8)
Edwards Ferry (Mile 30.8)
Monocacy Aqueduct / Mouth (Mile 42.1)
Nolands Ferry (Mile 44.6)
Point of Rocks (Mile 48.2)
Lock 29 - Lander (Mile 50.8)
Brunswick Bridge (Mile 55)
Canal Road (~Mile 69.5)
Big Slackwater (Mile 85.4)
River Bottom Park / Williamsport (Mile 99.5)
Cushwa Basin / Williamsport Visitor Center (Mile 99.6)
Oldtown (Mile 166.7)
Gene Mason Sports Complex (~Mile 181.8)
Cumberland (Mile 184.5)
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LOCATION: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) offers 150 miles of spectacular biking and hiking from Cumberland, Maryland to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania through Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands.
DATE LAST UPDATED: June 17, 2012 NOTES: This crushed-limestone surface rail trail is free of motorized traffic and offers a 10-12 foot wide, nearly level trail through the Allegheny Mountains along scenic river valleys. The GAP was the first path inducted into the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's Rail-Trail Hall of Fame. The GAP is an excellent place for bicycle camping. I suggest finding a shuttle service so you can leave your car at one end and only bike the trail in one direction. BLOGS: June 13-17, 2012 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Great Allegheny Passage TrailLink - Great Allegheny Passage: Map shows places to park Cycling the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath The following trail access points are listed from north to south: Point State Park
Ohiopyle State Park - Ferncliff
Cumberland
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Acryonyms
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The following are great sources for bicycling routes in the mid-Atlantic region.
Bike Washington Rails-to-Trails Conservancy TrailLink: This shows public parking access to trails. |
