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The D.C. area’s best bike trails, mapped

From East Potomac Park to the Capital Crescent Trail

Cyclists know that joy can be found outside. In the D.C. area, there are a wide variety of bike trails that offer outdoor adventures—ranging from paved and easy to rocky and strenuous—for both serious and amateur cyclists.

Below, we’ve mapped the best bike trails in and around D.C. From the Mount Vernon Trail to the Capital Crescent Trail, see what’s in store on two wheels.

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

Spanning approximately 184 miles, this historic park follows the Potomac River, providing views of Harpers Ferry and Great Falls. Because the route is unpaved, thin road tires are not recommended. Roughly every five miles after mile 26, visitors can find overnight camping areas and water pumps, according to TripSavvy . You can access the trail in Georgetown .

• Open in Google Maps

Sugarloaf Mountain

Expect a great workout when it comes to this scenic mountain in Frederick County, Maryland. The area has two mountain-bike trails and three hiker-only trails. Be advised that there are around four or five hills trail users have to tackle. You can check out a helpful trail map here .

Sligo Creek Trail

Spanning about 10 miles , this well-paved trail in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties is great for families who want to stay active. It’s one of the most scenic trails in the D.C. area, with its name coming from nearby Sligo Creek. During rush hour, try to avoid the parts of the trail that cross major roads.

MacArthur Boulevard Bike Path

This roughly eight-mile trail extends from Old Angler's Inn in Potomac, Maryland, to MacArthur Boulevard NW and Norton Street NW in D.C. The winding path is described by TrailLink as “a glorified shoulder at times,” but it’s still praised for having connections to the C&O Canal and the Capital Crescent Trail.

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Capital Crescent Trail

This approximately 11-mile trail offers both paved and crushed-stone surfaces in D.C. and Maryland, respectively. Expect lots of shade as well as commuters on weekdays. Going south, the ride is mostly downhill. The trail is built on the abandoned rail-bed of the Georgetown Branch of the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad, according to TripSavvy .

Metropolitan Branch Trail

The Metropolitan Branch Trail, or MBT, is a popular ride for commuters, especially because it extends through many of D.C.’s residential neighborhoods, such as Brookland , Brightwood , and Takoma . There are also plenty of murals along the roughly eight-mile trail worth checking out. It runs between Silver Spring, Maryland, and Union Station.

Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail

Built on the former road-bed of the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad, this trail runs approximately 45 miles , starting in Shirlington, Virginia, and ending in Purcellville, Virginia. It is completely paved and 100 feet wide, allowing room for cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians.

Anacostia Riverwalk Trail

The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail offers one of the most family-friendly bike rides in the D.C. area. The trail is approximately 20 miles long, following the Anacostia River and providing scenic views of the city. It is about 10 to 12 feet wide.

East Potomac Park

This roughly four-mile loop is paved and mostly flat. It also offers plenty of room for joggers and cyclists to share the trail. During cherry blossom season, it’s lined with different species of cherry trees in bloom. At Hains Point, visitors can watch planes take off and land at Reagan National Airport across the water.

Fairfax County Parkway Trail

This trail spans 28 miles , cutting through Fairfax County from north to south. According to the Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling , there are some rough patches in the trail.

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Holmes Run Trail

In Virginia, this partially paved trail travels roughly five miles between Alexandria and Fairfax County. It’s made of asphalt, concrete, and crushed-stone surfaces and follows a scenic route through residential areas.

Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail

For a trail with plenty of access points for cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail is a great choice. It has multiple benches and sightseeing telescopes along approximately one mile.

Mount Vernon Trail

Starting from Roosevelt Island on the Potomac River and passing through Old Town Alexandria, this paved, 18-mile ride offers great views of the monuments. The trail is relatively flat, although there’s a hill before getting to George Washington’s former home.

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Washington D.C.

Cycling routes in

Find the right bike route for you through Washington D.C., where we've got 3,217 cycle routes to explore. The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly or uphill type. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of May and August.

Find cycle routes in Washington D.C.:

Flat routes | Hilly routes | Uphill routes | Downhill routes | Quick rides | Long tours | Top rated routes

Top user routes in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States of America

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• 170 m

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• 557 km
• 813 m
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Find the perfect cycle route in Washington D.C. that suits your bike

Routes from washington d.c., routes to washington d.c..

• 116 m
• 173 m

North Kensington, Maryland, United States of America

• 242 m

Brookmont, Maryland, United States of America

• 164 m

Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America

Join the fast growing global cycling community

Are you ready for the full cycling experience.

Explore your two-wheel options.

Over 18,000 (or 5%) of DC residents bike to work on a daily basis. 

DC has over 160 miles of trails and bike lanes.

0 EMISSIONS

The average car commuter in the DC region drives 34 miles and emits 22 pounds of CO2 daily. The average cyclist, regardless of distance biked, emits zero pounds of pollutants.

75% OF TRIPS

Cars are used for 75% of trips under one mile. Imagine how different the city would look if those became bike trips instead.

With more than 3 million uses a year, Capital Bikeshare is the third-largest bikeshare system in the US, after New York and Chicago.

$308 PER YEAR

The average annual cost of operating a car is roughly $10,000, but it only costs $308 per year to maintain a bike.

#7 BEST BIKE CITY

Compared to the biggest US cities, DC ranks #7 for bike-friendliness based on factors like the length of bike lanes, the share of bike commuters, access to bike stores and repair shops, air quality, weather, and availability of bike clubs.

Explore DC by Bike

Capital bikeshare, shared lane markings, signed bike routes.

Live Scooter / Ebike Finder

Experience metro DC on two wheels. Capital Bikeshare is the region’s bikeshare system, with over 5,000 bikes and more than 600 stations across 7 jurisdictions: Washington, DC; Arlington, VA; Alexandria, VA; Montgomery County, MD; Prince George’s County, MD; Fairfax County, VA; and the City of Falls Church, VA. Designed for quick trips with convenience in mind, it’s a fun and affordable way to get around.

On-street bike lanes are on-road bicycle facilities designated by striping, signing and pavement markings. The District currently has more than 75 miles of on-street bike lanes.

Climbing Bike Lanes are on the uphill side of the road, with a shared lane on the downhill side.

Bike/Bus Lanes A dedicated lane shared by both cyclists and buses.

Protected Bike Lanes Sometimes referred to as cycletracks or separated bike lanes, protected bike lanes have painted buffer zones with physical barriers to separate them from motor vehicle lanes. Protected bike lanes are currently located on 15th St NW, 1st St NE, 6th St NE, L St NW and M St NE and NW.

Green Lanes DDOT has painted many bike lanes green in “conflict zones” to improve visibility of both the bike lanes and the cyclists.

Bike Trails Bicycle facilities physically separated from traffic, but intended for shared use by a variety of groups, including bicyclists, pedestrians and joggers.

The backbone of the Anacostia Riverfront in DC, connecting residents, visitors, and communities to the river, one another, and numerous commercial and recreational destinations.

A link in the national shore-to-shore American Discovery Trail, this trail provides miles of uninterrupted trails along the tributaries of the Anacostia River.

An established recreational greenway following the route of the old Baltimore & Annapolis Railroad from Glen Burnie to Annapolis.

A 12.5-mile scenic trail that encircles BWI Airport property and connects hikers, bicyclists, walkers and joggers to community resources, public transportation and area attractions.

Rails-To-Trails converted the old Georgetown Branch of the C&O Railroad from a railroad bed to this paved trail with gentle gradients.

This noise-protected trails runs along I-66 in Arlington County and is accessible 24-hours a day and lit at night.

An East/West running trail that follows Four Mile Run, linking the W&OD Trail and the Mt. Vernon Trail.

A scenic, recreational 5.7 mile route through Henson Creek Stream Valley Park in southern Prince George’s County.

An eight-mile linear park and trail running parallel to Metro’s Red Line from Union Station in DC to Silver Spring, Maryland, connecting to the Capital Crescent Trail.

An 18.5 mile path along the Potomac River, parallel to the George Washington Parkway, connecting to the Custis and Washington & Old Dominion trails.

This popular 18-mile asphalt trail runs from Lake Needwood in Montgomery County into DC.

The shared lane marking is a pavement marking with a variety of uses to support a complete bikeway network; it is not a facility type and should not be considered a substitute for bike lanes, cycle tracks, or other separation treatments where these types of facilities are otherwise warranted or space permits.

Signed bike routes are typically found along less congested residential roads or routes with minimal traffic hazards. Signed bike routes are indicated by signs and designated by the jurisdiction having authority over the roadways included in the bicycle route system.

LEARN THE BASICS

Offered for all skill levels, join a certified Washington Area Bicyclists Association (WABA) instructor teaching biking for transportation, fun and fitness.

Download the Pocket Guide to DC Bike Laws to review the rights and responsibilities of cyclists on DC streets.

From commuter amenities to protected bike lanes, learn more about how to help improve bicycling in the Washington, DC area.

Experience DC on Two Wheels

Download the DC Bike Map

Explore all the bike-friendliness Washington, DC has to offer. The map is colorful and easy-to-read, making it a perfect guide for experienced and new riders to venture out and experience DC by bike.

DC bike maps can be picked up in person at a variety of DC bike shops and at Washington Area Bicyclist Association ( WABA ) events. Businesses, residents, visitors, and commuters can request a complimentary copy mailed to them by emailing  [email protected] .  

RESOURCES & INFORMATION

• What are the Benefits of Biking?
• How Do I Bike Safely in the City?
• Any Tips for Beginners?
• Long-range Bike Master Plan
• What Bike Trails are Available in the Area?
• What are my Biking Options in DC?

Biking Benefits:

• Fast Commute to Work Biking to work saves time and is often the fastest way to get around in the District, especially during rush hour.
• Meeting People in the Community Biking helps you get familiar with a neighborhood and increases the likelihood of meeting your neighbors.
• Improved Health Biking improves your health and lowers your risk of serious illness like cardiovascular disease and type two diabetes.
• It’s Good for the Environment Twenty bikes take up the same space as one car, and biking produces zero pollution.
• Improved Performance at Work Biking, as a form of aerobic exercise, improves time and workload management, helping you feel motivated and more prepared to deal with stress.
• Better Sleep Biking for just 20-30 minutes every other day can help you fall asleep faster, sleep better and longer.

Safety Best Practices:

• Wear a helmet. Helmets dramatically reduce the risk of head injury in a bicycle accident.
• Ride on sidewalks only when necessary and always yield to pedestrians. Riding on the sidewalk is illegal in downtown Washington, DC.
• Follow all traffic laws. Bicyclists are required to obey all regulatory signs and traffic lights.
• Use hand signals. Tell motorists, cyclists and pedestrians what you intend to do. Be predictable!
• Beware of parked cars. Don’t ride too close to parked vehicles. Ride at least 5 feet away from parked vehicles, if possible, and watch for people exiting—doors can open at any time.
• Be careful at intersections. Watch for crossing vehicle traffic at intersections, even if you have the right-of-way.
• Never ride against traffic. Ride with traffic to avoid potential crashes.
• Ride in single file , except when passing.
• Be alert. Scan the road. Always know your surroundings.
• Be Vocal. Give an audible signal when passing other people on bicycles, and pass only on the left

Tips for Getting Started:

• Start Slow. Go on a few short rides around your neighborhood before you venture out further. Take it easy to start off with, and have fun!
• Find good routes. Remember: The best route by car might not be the best by bike. Some of the best bicycle routes are hidden from the busy car-filled streets. Use our transit map to plan the quickest safe route.
• Get the right equipment. Make sure your bike fits your body and is working well. DC has many great local bike shops that can help you get what you need.
• Make a goal. Take at least one trip a week by bike instead of driving. Add more trips as you feel ready. Practice discipline and self-forgiveness, and remember—the more you ride, the more fun it will be, and…the more you’ll ride.

For more than a decade, the District has been building a citywide network of on-street bike lanes, signed routes and other bicycle facilities. These efforts are successful in not only attracting a rapidly-growing number of cyclists, but also making streets safer for all users—drivers, pedestrians, transit riders and cyclists. moveDC is a collaborative effort led by DDOT to develop a bold and implementation-focused vision for DC’s transportation future. Continued expansion of the bike network, bike parking and the bikeshare program are moveDC priorities that will help ensure a safe and convenient bicycling environment in the District for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

GOAL 1: MORE AND BETTER BIKE FACILITIES

• Improve and expand the bike route system and provide functional and distinctive signs for the system.
• Provide bike facilities on roadways.
• Complete ongoing trail development and improvement projects.
• Improve bridge access for bicyclists.
• Provide bicycle parking in public space.
• Encourage bicycle parking in private space.

GOAL 2: MORE BIKE-FRIENDLY POLICIES

• Update District of Columbia laws, regulations and policy documents to address bicycle accommodation.
• Provide training to District staff.
• Review District of Columbia projects to ensure they provide bicycle accommodation.

GOAL 3: MORE BICYCLE-RELATE EDUCATION, PROMOTION AND ENFORCEMENT

• Educate motorists about safe operating behavior around bicyclists.
• Educate bicyclists about safe bicycling.
• Enforce traffic laws related to bicycling.
• Establish a Youth Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Education Program.
• Distribute the District of Columbia Bicycle Map to a wide audience.

Learn more about DDOT’s Long-range Bike Master Plan

A scenic, recreational route through Henson Creek Stream Valley Park in southern Prince George’s County.

It’s no secret that Washington, DC is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country. In addition to the abundance of bike lanes, trails, and infrastructure, there are also multiple biking options accessible in the District. goDCgo has put together guides to help you navigate biking in the District.

• Biking in DC PDF 1.36mb
• Bike Fact Sheet PDF 2.54mb

Share your love of biking

I take two wheels because.

I like to feel the breeze in my helmet hair.

@Bikeshare makes it exceptionally easy to get around town.

it’s liberating to not have to follow a schedule. My bike is always there for me when I need it.

it reduces air pollution and improves air quality in DC.

See what others are saying #bikeDC

MAPS & TOOLS

Finding a good route is important when you are trying to get around metro DC by bike. Fortunately, there are maps, apps, websites and tools to help you find your way.

• APPS & TOOLS
• HELPFUL LINKS

State & District Maps

• District of Columbia Bike Map PDF 24.9mb
• Maryland Bike Map PDF 3.61mb
• State of Virginia Bike Map PDF 8.57mb

City & County Maps

• Arlington County, VA Bike Map PDF 7.55mb
• City of Alexandria, VA Bike Map PDF 14.41mb
• Fairfax County, VA Bike Map PDF 21.75mb
• Montgomery County, MD Bike Map PDF 41.16mb
• Prince George’s County, MD Bike Map PDF 4.02mb
• City of Takoma Park, MD Bike Map PDF 2.4mb

To order a printed version, visit CommuterPage.com. For bulk copies, visit our brochure requests center .

https://www.capitalbikeshare.com/how-it-works/get-the-app

Allows you to view all station locations and the number of available bikes and docks, purchase a pass, unlock a bike, and ride right away!

https://citymapper.com/dc

The ultimate transport app that uses open data, mobile, and payment technology to make transport sustainable and hassle free; particularly useful for bike and dock availability.

https://transitscreen.com/products/citymotion

You’ll be able to get real-time information for all your mobility options anywhere and everywhere you go. Data is sorted by what’s most useful at the exact time and moment you open the app.

goDCgo Transit Map

http://washcycle.typepad.com/bikemap/

A robust, interactive transit map that shows metropolitan DC’s complete bike network. From bike-friendly roads to dirt paths and trails, this handy tool will help you get going on two wheels.

https://helbiz.com/

Helbiz is your new urban mobility partner. Simply tap to instantly unlock, ride, and leave your e-bike anywhere for the next person to use.

RackSpotter

http://www.rackspotter.com/

Web tool identifying bike parking locations throughout the Washington, DC region.

Ride The City

http://www.ridethecity.com/dc

Web tool helping you find safer bike routes.

Ride Report

https://ride.report/

Ride Report tracks your miles, maps your routes, and awards ride streaks for your daily errands and commutes.

https://www.strava.com/

Social network connecting runners and cyclists through the sports they love.

https://transitapp.com/

Transit is your real-time urban travel companion. Get accurate real-time predictions, simple trip planning, step-by-step navigation, service disruption notifications, and departure and stop reminders. You can also easily find and grab the closest bikeshare.

WashCycle.com

Map specializing in bike shops, trail access, incidents, and DC routes.

An initiative of Arlington County, VA to encourage and enable more people to go by bike more often.

The complete recreational biking guide to the Washington, DC area.

Metro DC’s bikeshare system available for use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Helpful biking resources from the District Department of Transportation.

Understand all your options when it comes to biking in Washington, DC.

DDOT requires operators to make dockless vehicles accessible to all Washingtonians.

Source of research and best practices for advocates working to increase awareness about better transportation options.

A DDOT initiative offering planning assistance for DC Schools that are interested in improving safety for student walkers and cyclists.

Cycling advocacy in the nation’s capital.

WABA aims to create a healthy, more livable region by advocating for better bicycling conditions and by providing bike education to area residents.

Report information about bike crashes to WABA to ensure fair treatment of cyclists involved in accidents.

Discussion forum presented by BikeArlington, goDCgo, and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA).

Information about bringing your bike on the Metrorail and Metrobus.

Plan your next two-wheel adventure with our Transit Map.

A membership with Capital Bikeshare offers 24/7 access to thousands of bike at hundreds of stations in Washington, DC; Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, and Falls Church, VA; and Montgomery County and Prince George’s Country, MD.

SINGLE TRIP

Additional $0.05/min on a classic bike or $0.15/min on an ebike

24-HOUR PASS

Unlimited 45-minute rides in a 24-hour period

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

$7.92/month.

Unlimited 45-minute rides

SIGN UP FOR THE LATEST

Subscribe to the goDCgo Newsletter to receive the latest news about what’s happening with biking in DC!

Custom Bike Route Maps

Find the Bike Route for You!

We teamed up with the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) to customize the best local routes for cyclists of any skill level. Whether you’re looking for a beginner route, more advanced route, or just a scenic ride, you’ve got options.

• Find a Trail
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• Create A Guidebook
• Create A Custom Route
• Search By Map
• Trails Near Me
• Get The TrailLink App
• TrailLink Unlimited
• Submit Trail
• Search trails Close

Self-Guided Bike Tour

Washington, dc.

Our bike tour provides about 16 miles of trail riding roundtrip, allowing you plenty of time to explore the many attractions the trail connects along the way. You’ll be riding right in the heart of Washington, D.C., pedaling through Rock Creek Park (a massive natural oasis for the city), skirting around the National Zoo and traveling near historical homes that can be toured. Our route forms a V shape with its centerpoint in the charming and historical neighborhood of Georgetown and connects two trails, the Rock Creek Park Trail and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park , with an option for hopping on a third, the Capital Crescent Trail .

Begin your journey in northwest Washington at the trail parking lot near the intersection of Beach Drive NW and Broad Branch Road NW; a yellow “Bike Xing” sign marks the spot. If you’re taking public transportation, the closet Metro stop is Van Ness Station , which is on the Red Line and one mile from the trailhead. If you don’t have a bike, you can do this tour in reverse, renting a bike from Fletcher’s Boathouse in the Palisades neighborhood of D.C.

This starting location is a stone’s throw from one of D.C.’s hidden gems: the Hillwood Estate , the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post, whose parents founded the Post cereal empire. The home serves as a museum, showcasing extensive collections of Russian and French art, and the grounds feature landscaped gardens.

From the trailhead, the trail meanders south through the woodlands of Rock Creek Park and, in some sections, you’ll be riding along the eponymous Rock Creek. In about a mile, you’ll begin tracing the perimeter of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo . This free attraction is home to 1,500 animals and definitely worth exploring if you have time; at its entrances, the zoo has bike racks at which to lock up since bicycles are not permitted on the grounds. 

Just over a mile and a half south of the zoo, you’ll be in close proximately to two more historical homes: Tudor Place , which was the home of descendants of George Washington, and Dumbarton House , a Federal-style building circa 1800. Short on-road excursions along residential streets can take you from the trail to the homes, both of which are on Q Street.

A half mile south of Q Street, you’ll make your connection to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, better known as simply the C&O Canal Towpath. Though we’ll only utilize part of its route for this bike tour, the trail stretches 184.5 miles all the way to Cumberland, Maryland, where it connects with the Great Allegheny Passage , itself spanning 150 miles and reaching Pittsburgh. The C&O features numerous locks, aqueducts and other historical structures; for more details visit the National Park Service’s website .

If you’re ready for lunch, a block north of the towpath is M Street, the main thoroughfare through Georgetown, where you’ll find no shortage of restaurant options. If you’re in the mood for Italian, try il Canale or Filomena ; for American dishes, Old Glory BBQ or Clyde’s ; and, for sushi and Japanese cuisine, there’s Bluefin . 

Alternatively, if you want to get a closer look at the Potomac River, which divides D.C. from Virginia, continue traveling south on the Rock Creek Park Trail just a tenth of a mile farther; under the Whitehurst Freeway, a spur trail heads west for about a block to a connection with the paved Capital Crescent Trail. The rail-trail’s passage through Georgetown Waterfront Park will give you nice views of the river. You could turn around here and head back to your starting point, or continue on the Capital Crescent, which goes for another 11 miles in a C shape, crossing into Maryland and traveling through Bethesda and on to Silver Spring.

If you remained on the C&O Canal Towpath, you’ll pedal west on the crushed-stone trail. For the most part, you will be riding below street level with the vibrant sounds of the city above you. Soon, you’ll be closely paralleling the Capital Crescent Trail, but you may not realize it at first with the dense tree cover between them.

About 3 miles into your journey on the towpath, you’ll reach Fletcher’s Cove, where you can check out the historical boathouse, which has been in operation since the 1850s. If you want to get out on the water, the boathouse rents kayaks, canoes and rowboats. The Abner Cloud House , built by a miller in 1801, is also located here. Once you’ve explored the area and had a rest, it’s time to turn around and head back to your starting point, catching any attractions you missed along the way.

Things to see and do in Washington, DC

Abner Cloud House

Built in the early 1800s by a miller, this house is the oldest structure on the C&O Canal.

Georgetown Waterfront Park

Georgetown's picturesque park along the Potomac River offers fun features like a labyrinth, fountain rain gardens and pollinator gardens.

Georgetown's picturesque park along the Potomac River offers fun features like a labyrinth, fountain rain gardens and pollinator gardens.

National Zoo

Situated in the D.C.'s Rock Creek Park, the 163-acre zoo is home to 1,500 animals.

Situated in the D.C.'s Rock Creek Park, the 163-acre zoo is home to 1,500 animals.

Dumbarton House

This Federal-style building (circa 1800) helps educate the public about life in the city during the countries early years.

Tudor Place

This elegant home belonged to descendants of George Washington.

Hillwood Estate

This former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post, whose parents founded the Post cereal empire, serves as a museum, showcasing extensive collections of Russian and French art. Its grounds also feature...

Rock Creek Park

Across more than 1,700 acres, this wooded park provides much needed green space in the heart of the city. It's traversed with a bike path and crisscrossed with hiking trails.

The Georgetown House

If you're in D.C. to ride trails, you can't get much closer than The Georgetown House, a boutique hotel located on the C&O Canal Towpath.

Americana Hotel

Decorated with an early 1960s vibe, this hotel is tucked between two busy shopping and dining meccas just outside D.C.: Pentagon City and Crystal City. To head into D.C., you're only a few blocks from...

Pod DC Hotel

This moderately priced hotel is located in D.C.'s Penn Quarter, across the street from the city¿s Chinatown and just a few blocks from the Metro and the National Mall.

Old Colony Inn Alexandria

Located in Virginia's Historic Old Town, this hotel offers a good value if you don¿t mind being outside of D.C. proper. This quaint hotel is only blocks from the popular Mount Vernon Trail and the...

Kimpton Hotel Madera

Located in the trendy Dupont Circle area, this hotel has an artistic sensibility and is only about a half mile from the Rock Creek Park Trail.

Old Glory BBQ

This Georgetown offers finger-lickin' good barbecue from different regions of the U.S.

Craving wood-fired pizzas, authentic Italian cuisine and a bottle of wine? Look no farther than this well-loved restaurant decorated with colorful contemporary art and located less than a block from...

Filomena Ristorante

Serving delicious Italian food in Georgetown for more than three decades, this is a go-to place for a hearty meal after a ride on the nearby C&O Canal Towpath.

Come here for fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine in D.C.'s Georgetown neighborhood.

Clyde's of Georgetown

Since 1963, Clyde's has been a D.C. favorite serving up classic American fare just a block from the C&O Canal Towpath.

Since 1963, Clyde's has been a D.C. favorite serving up classic American fare just a block from the C&O Canal Towpath.

Fletcher's Boathouse

Located on the C&O Canal Towpath, Fletcher's Boathouse offers plentiful options for enjoying the outdoors with rentals of bikes, kayaks, canoes, rowboats and paddleboards.

Capital City Bike Tours

Located just a few blocks from the National Mall, this outfitter provides bike rentals and guided bike tours.

Bike and Roll DC

With four D.C. locations, including one less than 2 blocks from the National Mall, this bike shop is a good bet for arranging your bike rental. They also offer guided tours by bike or Segway.

Big Wheel Bikes

Located at the corner of 33rd and M Street in Georgetown right near the C&O Canal. Has rentals of all kinds and also has trail-a-bikes, baby seats, and trailers.

Help us to connect you with more trails!

TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (a non-profit) and we need your support!

Washington, DC Trails

Anacostia River Trail

Overview Winding along its namesake river, from Maryland into southeast D.C., the Anacostia River Trail (also known as the Anacostia Riverwalk...

Sligo Creek Trail

The bustling D.C. metro area seems light-years away from the parklands bordering the Sligo Creek Trail in the Maryland suburbs northeast of the city....

Mount Vernon Trail

Overview    Hugging Arlington’s Potomac River waterfront, the Mount Vernon Trail links Gateway Park in Rosslyn with George Washington’s Mount...

Rock Creek Park Trails

Overview Located in the northwestern neighborhoods of Washington, D.C., Rock Creek Park serves as a lush natural oasis spanning more than 1,700...

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Overview Following the Potomac River, the C&O Canal Towpath traverses the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park for 184.2 miles between...

Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park (W&OD)

The Washington and Old Dominion Trail (W&OD), one of suburban Washington, D.C.’s most popular rail-­trails, is a fantastic link between the state’s...

Capital Crescent Trail

Detour Notice: As of September 2017, the Capital Crescent Trail east of downtown Bethesda was closed due to the construction of the Purple Line...

Metropolitan Branch Trail

Overview    Connecting Union Station, historic D.C. neighborhoods, and the bustling beltway town of Silver Spring, the Metropolitan Branch Trail...

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Getaways Living Sports Travel

Try this diy bike tour of beautiful washington, d.c., by rebekah kelley • july 28, 2022 0 6527.

Wondering What to Do With These Long Summer Days? How About Some Outdoor Biking Fun?

To access a map of the area from the National Park Service click here . You can also participate via RideSpot and share your photos.

Stop 1: Start at the Trail Head/Get Your Bike/Canal Boat Tours

Stop 2: World War II Memorial/Constitution Gardens

Stop 3: Smithsonian Institution Building/Carousel

Stop 4: Hirshhorn Outdoor Sculpture Garden

Stop 5: U.S. Capitol Building

Stop 6: National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Stop 7: The Washington Monument

Stop 8: Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Memorial

Stop 9: The Reach Plaza and Gardens at the Kennedy Center

Stop 10: Washington Harbour & Georgetown Waterfront Park

Additional information . . . to keep you safe and comfortable.

Bathroom and Parking

Food & Beverage

Bike Rentals

Bike Security

DC Bike Ride

tags Altor Lock Altor Locks Apex Lock bike lanes Bike Locks Bike paths Bike rentals Bike safety Bike touring Biking D.C. C&O Canal Capital Bikeshare Carousel on the Mall DC Bikeride Georgetown Waterfront Park Heritage Canal Boat Tours Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Maya Lin Memorial to Signers of Declaration of Independence Museum of Natural History National Mall outdoor sculpture Pavilion Cafe SAF Lock Smithsonian Castle The Kennedy Center The Lincoln Memorial the Reach The Washington Monument The Watergate Complex The World War II Memorial Thousand helmet U.S. Capitol Building Vietnam Memorial virtue skinfood Yoko Ono Wish Tree

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Biking in Washington DC: A Guide to Bicycling the Capital Region

Things to Know about Biking in Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia

 Tony Webster (CC BY 2.0) / Flickr

Washington, DC is a great city to explore by bike with 40 miles of bike lanes and more than 800 miles of biking trails throughout the metropolitan region. While the traffic around the nation's capital has gotten more congested in recent years, the capital region has become more bike-friendly than ever before. 

Guided Bike Tours, Bike Rentals & Bike Sharing

Taking a guided tour with Bike and Roll is a fun way to visit Washington, DC's most famous sights. Three-hour tours of the city are offered daily from March through November. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, pick up a bike and a map and plot out your own adventure. If you live or work in the city or are planning an extended stay, you can sign up for DC's Capital BikeShare self-service bike rental program. Riders can pick up and return a bike to multiple locations throughout the region. Bikestation at Union Station offers secure bike parking in addition to changing rooms, lockers, bike rental, bike repair and retail sales. Bike rentals are available through several vendors in Washington DC: Big Wheel Bikes  (Georgetown), Bikes to Borrow (Adams Morgan) ,   Fletchers Boat House  (C & O Canal), and  Revolution Cycles (Georgetown). 

Bike Trails

Hundreds of miles of bike trails in the Washington DC metro area make bicycling a popular activity for local residents and visitors. Trails wind past scenic locations and must-see landmarks, including the Kennedy Center, Georgetown, Arlington National Cemetery and Old Town Alexandria. See a guide to the best bike trails in the Washington DC area.

Bike Valets

The Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA)  provides bike valet services for major events in the Washington DC area including the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the Taste of Georgetown and more. The bike valet is free and keeps your bike safe under the supervision of an attendant.

Commuting Around Washington DC By Bike

Bicycling is a healthy, economical and environmentally friendly way to get to work. Commuter Connectionshas a bike commuting guide providing information on planning your route, bikes and transit, the Guaranteed Ride Home program and much more.

Annual Biking Events

Biking events are becoming very popular in the Washington DC area. Bicycling is a wonderful way to improve your health and a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Some bike events raise money for Washington, DC area charities, while others just offer a day of fun and activity. See a guide to bike events in the Washington DC area.

Washington DC Area Bicycling Clubs

• All American Bicycle Club - Damascus, MD
• Babes on Bikes - Women's Biking Group
• DC Velo Club - Racing 
• Evolution Cycling Team - Racing in Northern, VA
• Frederick Pedalers - Frederick, MD
• National Capital Velo Club - Racing
• Oxon Hill Bicycle and Trail Club - Southern Maryland
• Patuxent Velo - Racing  in Southern Maryland
• Potomac Peddlers - Metro Area
• Potomac Velo Club - Racing in Metro Area
• Reston Bike Club - Reston, VA
• Route 1 Velo - Racing in Greenbelt, MD

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Washington, D.C. Guide: Planning Your Trip

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Travel Guide to Visiting Washington, D.C. on a Budget

What to See and Do on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

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Washington DC Monuments & Memorials Bike Tour

• From $65 USD
• Washington, DC

3 hours From $65 USD Washington, DC

• Description
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Tap above to jump to different sections of this tour

• Day tours by bike
• United States

Experience the unforgettable in Washington DC

Washington DC’s historical significance as a city simply cannot be overstated. Take the bike tour that shows you why by taking you to the Washington Monument, National Mall, Tidal Basin, and the city's most magnificent memorials, with the added benefit of bike rental.

You’ll ride the National Mall, where hundreds of thousands amass to hear inaugural speeches, and which stretches between the United States Capitol and the Washington Monument. Park your bike in the shadow of the world’s tallest obelisk as you take in an unforgettable view of the White House.

Next, you’ll ride around the Tidal Basin, forming part of West Potomac Park, where 250 million US gallons of water from the Potomac River rush through the basin twice a day to flush the Washington Channel. Cycle past numerous awe-inspiring memorials, including those to Thomas Jefferson, Martin Luther King Jr., Franklin D Roosevelt, John Paul Jones, and George Mason. Capture your reflection in the stunning blue waters of the basin itself, along with the Jefferson memorial which sparkles a stunning white in the sunshine.

Onwards to the WWII Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial for moments of a different reflection, before your day tour continues to the Lincoln Memorial. History buffs will instantly recognize this Greek-style building as the site of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, and where the words of Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech echoed off the walls.

Your guide will be on hand for the whole bicycle tour to give you tips and facts about the sites, local exhibits, events, and venues.

View more photos

National Mall, Capitol, Washington Monument, White House, Tidal Basin, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial, John Paul Jones Memorial, George Mason Memorial, WWII Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial

What’s included

• Bike and helmet rental
• Experienced guide
• Illustrated map

Meeting place & directions

Unlimited Biking - 998 Main Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024

Traveler photos

  Write a review

An informative and easy way to get around DC

· washington dc monuments & memorials bike tour.

Bicycling in DC was the best decision I made as a mode of transportation for sightseeing. Joe Brady was a wealth of knowledge and I discovered areas of DC that were unbeknownst to me.

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Was a fun leisure ride with interesting historical sites to see along the way.

What a great way to see Washington DC, stopping off at each site, and having time to explore for 10-15mins. Guide was very knowledgable and gave us a lot of interesting facts.

• 4/5 Bikes + equipment
• 4/5 Scenery
• 5/5 Local tour company services
• 4/5 Route selection
• 5/5 Guides (if applicable)

The best way to explore the National Mall area

I took this tour the first day I got to DC, with the idea to see most of the Mall area and visit all its major landmarks, and it completely stood up to my expectations. The bike store is so conveniently located, so the bike pickup was practically on my way downtown. Surprisingly, all bikes were in great condition, almost new.

The tour program is great, it took us to all the main points of the area, with our knowledgeable guides telling stories about each of the places.

Since I love long-distance biking, and this tour is leisurely paced, I kept my bike for the entire day, and in the afternoon, I cycled to Alexandria and took lunch there. It's an amazing ride, with a bike path all along the way, which takes you directly to the charming not-to-be-missed old town of Alexandria.

Very nice and educational trip in Washington DC

I enjoyed this trip so much! I’ve been in DC a few times before but after this tour, I know so much more about history and memorials of the Washington DC than ever before. This bike tour is a great way to relax, have fun and get educated about DC history. Bikes were in an excellent condition and we had awesome guides!

• 5/5 Bikes + equipment
• 5/5 Scenery
• 5/5 Route selection

A really great way to visit the monuments!

I've been to DC a few times but this was by far the best experience. Cycling is such an effective and FUN way to explore the monuments and memorials. The guides were really knowledgeable and gave us a lot of interesting facts at each stop. We had a large group and I think splitting into two smaller groups would have made it even more enjoyable.

Great way to easily see many memorials and monuments!

This tour was a great way to see the monuments and memorials in DC. It was quick and easy to bike between the different tour stops and saved so much time compared to walking. At each stop, our guides took time to discuss the history behind the memorial and then allowed time to explore independently. The biking was very easy, even with a few road intersections and some pedestrian traffic around the more popular monuments. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone exploring the area. I imagine it is even more lovely at night with all the lighting on the monuments!

The ideal sightseeing experience

Coming from the UK, I'd seen the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, National Mall etc on the TV and I knew I had to see these places in person one day. I was so glad and appreciative to find a tour that took me to the best of Washington DC in just a few hours - I could tick all these sights off my travel list, and there really was no comparison between seeing pictures and standing right there on the steps with Lincoln looming above me.

Our guides Josh and Eric B were very knowledgeable and had a relaxed manner that was easy to engage with. I learned a lot of interesting facts at each site and was grateful for a compact introduction before being given time to independently explore the monuments. The tour was paced so you didn't feel rushed like you sometimes can do - the guides looked after our bikes and I was able to read every quote at the FDR memorial, which was my favourite. The guides were also great for stopping so I could grab a bottle of water mid-ride.

Overall, this was a really atmospheric ride that was equal parts educational and engaging. Also to add is that the bike was really good quality (Cannondale) with a pouch for storing your phone so there was no fear of it slipping out of my pocket. I kept the bike until the evening, so I was able to extend my trip with a cycle to Alexandria which took me past the Pentagon with planes from the Reagan Airport soaring overhead.

I'd recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see the best of DC without tiring themselves with long walks between the monuments.

A great way to see the main monuments of DC

While I was anticipating a more bike-intensive tour, I was pleasantly surprised at the historical emphasis of this ride. The biking was easy and leisurely, we only rode about 10 minutes between each monument. But, the guides were super knowledgeable and gave a lot of insight into the cultural and historical significance of each place. It was a perfect way to explore and learn about the city. Would definitely do it again with someone who's never been to DC. Also, the shop was super organized, we got our bikes assigned and fitted in no time.

• 3/5 Route selection

Great guides, fun and easy way to see all the sites

Super easy and fun way to see the monuments. Our guides were great. I definitely recommend. I just wish we took the long way to visit the monuments so we could get more riding in. :-) DC is a great city to ride.

The Perfect Way to Explore DC!

After visiting DC a few times on foot, this time I went by bike. This is truly the best way to get from monument to monument! The time you save by not walking is spent getting a small history lesson and an in depth view of each location. Our guides were wonderful and very knowledgeable! I only wish that there were more focus on the history of each stop.

The biking itself was minimal, almost entirely on bike paths, and can be done easily by beginner cyclists. There are some spots where you must cross the road and be aware of traffic, however.

Even though a lot of the monuments are currently under spring cleaning and construction, I had a great time on this adventure! We had good weather, fun guides and comfortable bikes! If you take a trip to DC, you'll have to make time for this excursion!

Monuments & Memorials Tour it is!

This is a great tour! You will definitely see many monuments and memorials, some of which I didn’t even know existed, and I’ve travel to DC quite a bit. There’s not a lot of biking on this tour, so if you’re looking for a real work out, this isn’t it, but it is great to do with families – smaller children, grandmas and grandpas etc. Highly recommend! Our guides, Eric B and Josh were amazing!!

A fun and interesting ride around the monuments

Our guides showed us around the monuments of DC at a relaxed pace and were full of fun and interesting facts about each monument. Even while visiting the ones I had already seen before I learned a lot!

A fun way to learn about history!

This was such a comprehensive tour of the National Mall monuments and memorials. My husband and I had a great time riding our bikes, learning about our country's history, and taking photos of the memorable sites. Our guides were very knowledgeable DC locals. I learned new facts and fun trivia tidbits. Did you know there is a time capsule at the MLK Jr Monument? The pace of the tour is leisurely, with plenty of stops to experience the monuments and memorials, take pictures, or get refreshments.

A relaxed and fun way to explore the iconic monuments of DC!

This was a well-organized tour with informative guides. Biking from one monument to the next by bike was a really fun way to get around and see the sites easily and quickly. At each spot, we were given enough time to explore the monuments on foot . Biking was easy and bikes were in good condition. A great experience.

• 4/5 Local tour company services
• 3/5 Guides (if applicable)

Perfect way to see the monuments!

I had a great time on the tour! I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to see lots of great sites in a short amount of time. The guides were very knowledgeable about each place and gave you plenty of time to explore each location.

Great way to see the monuments

Great bike tour of DC’s most popular monuments. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave us ample time to explore the sites at each stop. Not too much biking so perfect for unexperienced riders, looking to learn but not break a sweat. Would recommend!

The best monuments/memorials in one tour

I can't think of a better way to see all the monuments/memorials in one trip. Of course you can't drive your car to each of the monuments and park. I suppose you could walk it, but it would be a very long walk. So seeing them by bike is about perfect.

Despite growing up in DC, I learned a lot on this tour. For instance, I didn't realize that the Washington Monument was at one time the tallest building in the world (later surpassed by the Eiffel Tower). And that it remains the tallest unreinforced stone structure in the world (no steel, just stone). (The wording used by the guide was something about "tallest free standing" structure, but I think he meant "tallest unreinforced structure".)

Every monument and memorial is a highlight. For me the MLK one was especially cool as I had not seen before. I just thought it was really well done and the guide really described it well. Another highlight was at the end, standing on the steps of the Jefferson memorial, you could see many of the monuments/memorials visited earlier, the White House, the Potomac, National Cathedral and all over DC actually. It's a great view. I had also not seen the FDR memorial before, and while I found it interesting, its message was not quite as easy to grasp as the others, for me at least.

There were two tour guides in our group of nearly 20 people, and they were knowledgeable about each monument. During each stop, one guide would keep an eye on all the bikes so that we could walk around and explore the monument for 10, 15 or 20 minutes, depending on the monument/memorial. It was really well organized and planned. The guides were friendly and available for questions and also had tools to help adjust the bikes if needed. One guide was wearing a badge on his shirt about how he wanted tips. I didn't know that ahead of time and didn't bring cash, and wouldn't know what they'd expect even if I had. So I kind of wish there was more communication and clarity on this aspect, as it made me wonder if the guides are already paid or if they are volunteers. In any case, the guides were great.

The bikes were good quality, well maintained, comfortable and easy to ride. I think the bike I rode was a Cannondale, which I understand is a very good quality bike. The starting location was very convenient and Unlimited Biking has a great location in DC. Along the ride there were opportunities for food and bathroom breaks, and it was overall a very easy and educational day tour.

I recommend this tour if you are interested in an easy and fun way to see all the monuments. This really is the easiest way to do that. I don't recommend this tour if you are looking for lots of exercise on a bike, as there really isn't all that much actual bike riding on this tour. But luckily, we were able to keep riding the bikes afterwards (without the guides) so we rode on to Old Town Alexandria and back, which was a nice ride for both exercise and scenery. Highly recommended.   SHOW MORE 

• 4/5 Guides (if applicable)

Great tour and friendly staff!

This bike tour was a fantastic way to see all the historical monuments and having a guide full of useful information gave depth to the places we visited. Will definitely be taking advantage of biking day tours in the future because you can cover a lot more ground in a short amount of time. I loved seeing the Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall, so much history, absolutely amazing!!!

Best way to see the monuments!

Loved seeing the music monuments on a bike. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and able to engage with everyone on the tour. Can’t recommend it enough. We were able to stop at each monument to explore it on foot while our guide looked after our bikes.

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The 184.5 mile long Chesapeake & Ohio Canal is located along the north bank of the Potomac River , starting in Washington, DC and ending in Cumberland, MD. The canal was built between 1828 and 1850, and it operated sporadically between floods until 1924. In 1954, US Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas organized an eight day hike up the canal's towpath in an effort to save it from being converted to a parkway. His efforts succeeded, and in 1971 the canal became a National Historic Park .

Today, much of the canal has been drained of water and reclaimed by the forest. However, the canal's towpath remains a favorite of hikers, joggers, and bicyclists. Like myself, many local cyclists have considered trying to bike the entire 184 miles between Georgetown and Cumberland, MD. I started biking large sections of the lower 60 miles with high school buddies back around 1981. (This was before ATBs so I used my "Sear's Best" Ross 10-speed). Since then, I've completed five "through trips". Thanks to the new Great Allegheny Passage Trail , it is now possible to ride 330 traffic free miles from Washington, DC all the way to Pittsburgh, PA, as we did in 2007 . You can also read about my earlier trips in 1995 , 2003 , and 2004 .

Before you start out on your epic journey, I strongly recommend trying some shorter trips to prepare yourself. The towpath is not paved (the surface is typically clay and crushed stone), so it is a bit rough. Therefore, you will need to build up some calluses on your butt before starting out (no joke). The first 20 miles is the most heavily used and is a good place to practice.

Pittsburgh to DC: GAP and C&O Bike Tour

Ride car-free from pittsburgh pa to washington dc on the famous gap and c&o canal rail-trails, pittsburgh to dc on the famous gap & c&o canal rail trails.

Conde Naste magazine included this unique trail system in its “most beautiful rail-trail list” and you’ll quickly see why. On your way from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington, DC, the multitude of natural, cultural and historically significant sites will astound you.

The initial 129 miles of this tour are on the Great Allegheny Passage from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, MD, located on abandoned railroad beds. The final 190 miles from Cumberland, MD to downtown Washington, DC, are on the C&O Canal Towpath , which is the heart of the  C& O Canal National Park. You will not believe the tranquility and the beauty of this park; located in the middle of the suburban east coast. Read our in-depth blog post on the C&O Canal Towpath History here. 

Talk about bucket list opportunities!  Your journey will visit three states- PA, MD, WV and will visit the District of Columbia , and will pass through four national parks – C&O Canal, Antietam Battlefield, Harpers Ferry and Rock Creek Park.

Your 300+ miles of car-free rail trails begin just outside of Pittsburgh, PA. It won’t be long until the buildings are exchanged for a canopy of trees. We start at 761 feet in elevation, cross the Continental Divide at 2,932 feet and end at sea level. Along the way, we will ride past remnants of the early 1900s industrial revolution when Pittsburgh Steel was king. All of this happens with a maximum grade of 2% with only a very few exceptions.

While the grade is quite friendly, keep in mind that the daily mileage averages 50 miles a day.  To maximize your enjoyment of the tour, riders will want to average 9 miles an hour.

Custom bike tour departures available for groups of 6 or more. Request a Tour Itinerary  for more detailed information and logistics.

Tour Highlights

Descend the Allegheny Front of the Appalachian Mountains

Ohiopyle Falls

Cross the Youghiogheny River on a 100'-tall railroad bridge

Ride over the 101' high Salisbury Viaduct

Transportation back to starting point

Lodging Options

Historic Summit Inn

Fairfield Inn Cumberland

Country Inn at Berkeley Springs

The Bavarian Inn

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Day 1:   Meet your guides in Boston, PA and take your first ride on the Great Allegheny Passage. You’ll pedal along the Youghiogheny River, through the stunning river gorge. A green tunnel of trees shades the trail for miles through Ohiopyle State Park. Right before town, you’ll pass over two spectacular bridges— a 100-foot-high railroad bridge over the river and the award-winning Yough River Trail bridge. Right after the bridges, you’ll find yourself in the quaint borough of Ohiopyle, where we call home!

Day 2:   Wake up at the Summit Inn, where you can see the entire way to Pittsburgh on a clear day. Today you will tackle a 73 mile ride through three rail tunnels (don’t worry 23 miles is downhill) and over the Eastern Continental Divide.  Your ride follows the meandering Middle Yough, the very waters boated by George Washington.

After a support stop, we’ll travel a short distance along the Casselman River. The ride along the Casselman takes us through a region once known for logging and coal mining. It is now dominated by wind farms! Soon enough, we are up and over the Eastern Continental Divide and cruising down into Cumberland, Maryland—our resting place for the evening.

Day 3:  Today, we will start down the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath! You’ll see aqueducts, locks, lock houses, colonial and Native American settlements, and you’ll take a peek at the 3⁄4 mile long Paw Paw Tunnel. Fun Fact: Paw Paw Tunnel took its name from the paw paw, an exotic fruit that grows on the nearby ridges. The ride continues through Greenridge State Forest and Little Orleans before finishing the day in Hancock, Maryland.

Day 4: Great stone dams, bridges, and aqueducts characterize today’s ride. These monuments stand as a testament to the labor and ingenuity of a largely immigrant labor force who tried to tame the Potomac river through times of war and flooding. You’ll have the option to take some time to explore Fort Frederick, one of the largest fortifications built by English colonists in North America, in the morning.

In the afternoon, some riders may wish to take a tour of Antietam National Battlefield, a now pastoral setting where the bloodiest battle of the Civil War was fought.  After the optional visit to Antietam, it is a short ride downhill into Shepherdstown, West Virginia, to the luxurious Bavarian Inn for the night.

Day 5:  The day’s ride straddles the dividing line between the North and the South along the Potomac River, where numerous confrontations occurred during the Civil War.  We will pass through Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park, where the Shenandoah River feeds into the Potomac. The town offers a dramatic landscape, historic shops, and cobblestone streets. Known for John Brown’s rebellion, Harper’s Ferry was the site of many key conflicts in the war. We will end the ride in White’s Ferry, Maryland. 

Day 6: Today’s ride will take us through Great Falls of the Potomac before countryside begins to peel back and give way to the buzz of our nation’s capital, Washington D.C. End your ride at the Thompson Boat House and Mile 0 in Georgetown! We will provide a shuttle back to guests’ vehicles at the conclusion of the tour.

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“The scenery, the terrain changes, the breaks at points of interest were all well orchestrated to make this trip a fun adventure! We had the best guides ever, Heather and Ralph, who pointed out all the interesting aspects of the trail, the safety issues to take note of and managed all the details to make this trip completely amazing!”

~Shannon H., St. Charles, IL

Top 3 Blog Posts For Pittsburgh to D.C. Bike Tour

History along the great allegheny passage.

The historic Great Allegheny Passage isn’t just a path through the woods. The 10-foot-wide multipurpose trail is built on railroad corridors constructed to heavy-duty standards of gentle grades, sweeping curves and major bridges and tunnels that take you through the mountains, not over them.  Read more…

Great Allegheny Passage Historic Bridges

The bridges and tunnels between Pittsburgh and Cumberland were all built in this short span of 2 years!  This was an amazing industrial feat, considering the rough terrain and numerous river crossings that were required.  Most of the original bridges are still in use by the trail… read more.

Best Restaurants on the Great Allegheny Passage 

One of the best things about bike touring is eating food. Lots and lots of it, without consequence! The Great Allegheny Passage is one of the best touring routes because it goes through many different towns. Your journey along the GAP trail can be a food tour through the Allegheny Mountains! Read more… 

Trip Information

Trip Length - Days

Tour Rating

Experienced.

National Parks Visited

Route Overview

E-bikes Allowed

Required Specifications

• 50 pounds or less weight limit
• Pedal assist only
• Removable battery
• 5+ hour battery capacity

Daily Mileage

Check In Location

Support & Gear Vehicle

Minimum Age

5 Breakfasts | 6 Lunches | 3 Dinners

2024 Pricing

PP Double Occupancy

Single Supplement*

Standard Bike Rental

*This is required if you are traveling solo or if you are traveling with someone but require seperate beds

RESERVE ONLINE BY DATE

Select your departure date and click to reserve your bike tour!

• May 12, 2024 Sold Out
• May 19, 2024 Sold Out
• June 9, 2024 Sold Out
• June 16. 2024 Sold Out
• June 23, 2024 Sold Out
• Book June 30, 2024
• Book July 7, 2024
• Book August 4, 2024
• Book August 11, 2024
• Book August 25, 2024
• Sept. 8, 2024 Sold Out
• Sept. 15, 2024 Sold Out
• Sept. 22, 2024 Sold Out
• Book Sept. 29, 2024 Sold Out
• Oct. 6, 2024 Sold Out

If your desired departure date is within 30 days, please call our office to book , it will be unavailable to book on-line.

Call 800-272-4141

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