State: MD Length: 2.60 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Anacostia River Trail begins in Cottage City, Maryland, at the split of the Anacostia River into its northeast and northwest branches. Those traveling south on either the Northeast Branch Trail or Northwest Branch Trail can seamlessly join the Anacostia River Trail, which continues southward ever closer to the Maryland–District of Columbia border. All three trails—along with several others—are part of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System. Starting from the north, the Anacostia River Trail runs through a mixture of open space and forest along the river's shoreline. The trail crosses under busy Bladensburg Road/US 1 and passes the backyards of residences in the town of Colmar Manor before the route splits into two parts. Continue on the west side of the river, and your journey will quickly end at Colmar Manor Community Park, which features playgrounds, a picnic pavilion, ball fields and an equestrian trail. If you opt to take the bridge over the Anacostia River before the park, you will wind up in Bladensburg's Waterfront Park. The popular park contains restrooms, a water fountain, playground, picnic pavilion and boat rentals, and used to be the southern endpoint of the trail. However, a recent extension southward leads the trail past industrial properties and into more open space along the river. The trail then ends abruptly in a wetland restoration area, which is a great spot for wildlife and bird watching. In the near future, a northern extension of the District of Columbia's Anacostia Riverwalk Trail will directly link the two riverside trails via a route under US 50 and an Amtrak corridor and through the Kenilworth Aquatic Garden
State: DC Length: 12 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is an important component of the transportation network in the nation's capital and a priority project under President Obama's America's Great Outdoors initiative. The planned 20-mile trail, spanning both sides of the Anacostia River, will connect DC residents in 16 waterfront neighborhoods to their workplaces, schools, shopping, recreational amenities and the outdoors.
State: MD Length: 29.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Anacostia Tributary Trail System includes a number of trails linked together and managed by the National Park Service. The trail include: the Anacostia River Trail, the Northwest Branch Trail, the Northeast Branch Trail, the Indian Creek Trail, the Paint Branch Trail, the Lake Artemesia Trail, and the Sligo Creek Trail.
State: MD Length: 12.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 11-mile BWI Trail was primarily designed for area commuters; however, the trail also makes for a great recreation venue. Despite being close to BWI-Thurgood Marshall Airport, much of the trail is mercifully peaceful, especially the segment through Friendship Park's pine forest. Aviation buffs will enjoy the northern terminus of the trail in Andover Park, where they can view the general aviation runway. You'll find a few restaurants along Aviation Boulevard, Dorsey Road and Elkridge Landing Road, and vending machines at the Amtrak station. Restrooms are available at Andover Park and the Amtrak station. At the southern terminus of the BWI Trail you can connect via the John Overstreet Connector—a short spur trail—directly to the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail.
Rail-Trail
State: MD Length: 14 miles Surface: Asphalt
If you are looking to augment your physical workout with some intellectual exercise, look no further than the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail. The scenic, paved, 13-mile community trail is brimming with history lessons and boasts a solar system of information. The trail follows the route of the Annapolis and Baltimore Short Line, which started running freight and passenger service in 1880 and helped shape this suburban region near the nation's capital. Today, the 112-acre linear park winds through parks, neighborhoods and natural wooded areas. The trail also passes the Marley Station shopping mall, and the Ranger Station at mile marker 6.3, where public grills and a large field-perfect for disk throwing-make an ideal picnic stop. Portions of the route are sponsored by volunteers who fill the flowerbeds and kiosks along the trail, lending it a colorful, seasonal flair. Along the trail you will find a literal alphabet of historical markers, from A to Z. The A marker, at mile 0.1, is the Winchester Station House at Manresa near the Annapolis start of the trail. At mile 13.3 you will find the Z marker identifying the Sawmill Branch, the area's source of water and power in the early 18th century. To follow along with each marker, you will want to pick up a flyer at the Ranger Station. Near Harundale Mall you will come upon the Planet Walk, a linear museum with educational displays for the sun and each planet. Sponsored by NASA, the planets are true to scale and have educational storyboards that teach about our solar system. The trail, and its educational opportunities, end in the small town of Glen Burnie. But you may continue on the BWI Trail loop for an additional 12.5 miles around the Baltimore Washington International Airport.
State: VA Length: 3.25 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
Running parallel to Beulah Street from Franconia to Fort Belvoir in southeast Fairfax County, this paved trails provides a link to numerous neighborhoods along its route.
State: VA Length: 3 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Blake Lane Sidepath runs for 3 miles, linking Oak Marr Park and Recreation Center with neighborhoods, Oakton High School and other parks. Most of the trail is concrete and the width of a standard sidewalk. Use caution at all road crossings.
State: VA Length: 1.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Bluemont Junction Trail is a 1.5 mile paved trail branch off the Washington and Old Dominion and marks the spot where the Southern railroad met another line from Rosslyn. This shady trail connects Bluemont Park to Ballston. Visitors will find the Bluemont Park entrance and parking lot at 601 W. Manchester Street in Arlington, VA. The park boasts picnic areas, playground,s ball parks and of course the trail. Enjoy!
State: VA Length: 10 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
This trail parallels Braddock Rd. and New Braddock Rd. though the southern part of Fairfax County in Northern Virginia. The trail provides connections to the George Mason University Fairfax Campus, as well as numerous nieghborhoods and the Fairfax County Parkway Trail, and the Ox Road Sidepath.
State: DC, MD Length: 11 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Gravel
The 11-mile Capital Crescent Trail follows the route of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad's Georgetown Branch rail line of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. It begins in Silver Spring, Maryland, east of the Rock Creek Trestle and curves westward and south through Maryland into Washington, D.C., to end in the heart of historic Georgetown. For the 7 miles between Georgetown and Bethesda, the Capital Crescent Trail is paved, and much of it includes an adjacent gravel trail for joggers. Between Bethesda and Lyttonsville (3 miles), the trail is surfaced with crushed stone; this segment is called the Georgetown Branch. From Lyttonsville the Georgetown Branch Trail continues for 2 miles as an on-road bike route into downtown Silver Spring. Future plans call for creating a hard surface alongside the proposed Purple Line light rail between Bethesda and downtown Silver Spring, where the Capital Crescent will connect to the Metropolitan Branch Trail. The asphalt section of the trail connects Georgetown to Bethesda. In Georgetown, the trail travels with the Potomac River on one side and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath on the other side. From the trail, you can watch the rowing crews of Georgetown University at practice or possibly jog past a senator. Deer, foxes, rabbits, many species of birds and the three different color phases of ubiquitous local squirrels—white, grey and black—also share the trail. In Georgetown near Thompsons Boat Center and in west Silver Spring at Jones Mill Road, the trail connects to Rock Creek Park, a densely forested area that closes its roads to car traffic on weekends and becomes a playground for non-motorized uses. The loop of the Capital Crescent and Rock Creek Park totals 22 miles and takes you past the National Zoological Park and the
State: MD Length: 1 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
When complete the Catonsville Short Line Trail will follow a 2.5-mile segment of the former Catonsville Short Line Railroad, which ran from Charlestown to Catonsville. As of 2013, the trail runs between Shady Nook Avenue and Charlestown Retirement Community on the east side of the Baltimore Beltway, a distance of 1 mile. West of the Beltway, a 0.5-mile section of trail has also been cleared around Mellor Avenue across from the Catonsville Armory. Plans call for more clearing, as well as improving the trail surface of both sections in addition to linking the two sections. Take care when crossing the streets because there are no pedestrian crossings.
State: VA Length: 4.25 miles Surface: Asphalt
This paved path runs parallel to Centreville Road, providing an safe alternative transportation method along this busy suburban roadway in Western Fairfax County. The trail runs from just south of the Centreville Rd/267 entrance/exit to the intersection of Highway 50 in Chantilly. There are curb-cuts and crosswalks at most of the major road intersections.
State: DC, MD Length: 184.50 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park (a.k.a. C&O Canal Towpath) follows the route of the Potomac River for 184.5 miles between Georgetown in Washington, D.C., and Cumberland, Maryland. Hundreds of original features, including locks, lock houses, aqueducts and other canal structures, are reminders of the canal's role as a transportation system during the Canal Era, which peaked in the mid-19th century. The C&O Canal Towpath was one such engineering feat that, unfortunately for investors, was largely outdone by the competing railroad that parallels the towpath in many places. Today, however, recreationists of all types can enjoy this mostly level, continuous trail through the spectacular scenery of the Potomac River valley. Every year millions of visitors hike or bike the C&O; the peak season is from May through October. Weekends from spring through fall are busy, especially around Washington, D.C. and Great Falls National Park in Maryland. The trail provides campgrounds (both private and public), picnic areas, porta-potties and lookout points along the way. In addition, you'll find many amenities, such as cafes and restaurants, B&Bs and motels, bike shops, museums and retail shops, as well as sites of historical importance. A handful of visitor centers operated by the National Park Service sell guidebooks and provide information about the canal towpath, its history and local points of interest. You can even stay the night in one a handful of restored lock houses (visit the National Park Service website for more information). Of particular importance is the role the canal itself played during the American Civil War, which was as a dividing line between North and South. Troops and both sides of the conflict lobbied ammunitions across the water and crossed the river and canal numerous times, raiding enemy camps, sabotaging canal operations and marching to—and retreating from—battles, including the Gettysburg Campaign. Though many aren'
State: MD Length: 1.40 miles Surface: Boardwalk
Between 1900 and 1935, the Chesapeake Beach Railway whisked vacationers from Washington, DC, to the grand hotels, beaches and boardwalk of the resort town of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. Now tourists and residents alike can enjoy a different kind of luxury as they walk or pedal on the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail, which occupies a portion of the abandoned railroad corridor. Unusual for a rail-trail, the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail rests almost entirely on a wooden boardwalk just above serene Fishing Creek and the marshlands surrounding it. Bicyclists needn't worry, though—unlike some boardwalks, the trail is open for bicycling, and the width is adequate for such use. Start your journey at the water park in downtown Chesapeake Beach. If you have the time, be sure to check out the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum located just a few blocks from the trailhead. The museum is the last remaining depot of the railway still standing on its original site. The railroad's last known passenger railcar also sits behind the building. As you trek away from downtown, the trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding marshland and forest. A spur to the north will connect you with the residential developments of Bayview Hills and Richfield Station. Cross Fishing Creek to join its southern shore and you may be treated to a sighting of a bald eagle. The trail once again crosses Fishing Creek and then abruptly ends; be sure to bring your camera and binoculars, as this is one of the best spots along the trail for bird watching.
State: MD Length: 2.60 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Grass, Gravel
The College Park Trolley Line Trail provides a safe pathway for students, from kindergartners to doctoral candidates, to walk and bike to school in College Park. The short, paved trail follows the route of the trolley that once ran from Washington, DC, to Laurel between 1903 and the mid-1950s. With service roads on both sides of the trail, trail users have easy access to three schools, and there is a partial route for college students heading to nearby University of Maryland. Of course, you don't have to be earning a degree to use the trail. Local residents use the path for after-dinner walks, commuters take it as a shortcut to the Metrorail system and house cats find it a good place to wait for an indulgent hand to give them a pat. The trail sits on a raised berm and crosses several quiet neighborhood roads, where you can easily pick up the pathway. Plans are underway to pave the section between Calvert Road and Paint Branch Parkway; anticipated completion is summer 2013. Phase 5 will add another 2 block section in the Lakeland area. Mostly shaded nearly all year by walnut, maple and flowering trees that tower near the trail from neighboring yards, the rail-trail also serves as something of a home-and-garden tour. Residents of the quirky Sears bungalows and rambling colonials along the trail use their yards to showcase their green thumbs. Additionally, several businesses within a block of trail, including an impressive herb shop and a corner convenience store, provide diversions during a short stroll.
State: VA Length: 1.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: VA Length: 40 miles Surface: Asphalt, Ballast, Concrete, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Cross County Trail is a multi-use trail that generally follows the various stream valleys in Fairfax County, Virginia. Some sections are wheelchair/mobility scooter accessible but not all sections. Some sections are suitable for horseback riding, and the entire length of the Cross County Trail is open to foot traffic and bikes. Some sections are too rough for road bikes, but mountain bikes and hybrids will have no problem. The trail winds through northern Virginia's hardwood forests, much it bottomland—as it follows stream courses that braid their way throughout the county. Some of the trail passes through the forest and meadows of county parks, while other sections pass through county owned land that borders wooded subdivisions. In addition, trail users will find nearby shopping and business districts. A small portion of the trail follows the Washington & Old Dominion Trail (aka the W&OD Trail). The northern end begins in Great Falls National Park, at the legendary Potomac River. Heading south, the trail extends to the Occoquan River, passes through Laurel Hill, site of the former Lorton Prison, now an expansive county park with lots to offer. Trail users will see lots of wildlife, such as deer, fox, muskrat, amphibians, and many species of bird, including hawks and owls. NOTE: Periodic flooding in some areas can wash out sections of the trail in extreme events at worst. At best, spring rains can make sections muddy. Use caution and check the local website (link to the right) for trail alerts.
State: MD Length: 6 miles Surface: Asphalt
Maryland's Cross Island Trail spans Kent Island in Queen Anne's County, providing multiple points of access to everything from libraries and schools to ball fields and the waterfront. It's an impressively signed, well-maintained, beautiful community asset. Begin at Terrapin Nature Park, a parcel of protected land for birds and native plant life. Just past the nature area, to the left of the trail, is an old graveyard with fewer than a dozen cracked and weather headstones tucked among the trees. If you can spot it, it's worth a peak. From here, the trail quickly winds through neighborhoods and stands of white pines and hemlocks. At the first mile marker, you come to Old Love Point Park, a recreation area with baseball and soccer fields. Continuing along, the trail passes through farm fields, and you'll be able to see a lighthouse in the distance that indicates how close you really are to the seashore. At mile 3.8, you will have to do a short back-road jog to reconnect with the trail, but a blue-painted bike lane makes this a simple transition. Back on the path, you'll come to a long wooden bridge that provides the first unhindered view of the water. This lovely expanse is a gem of the Cross Island Trail. Before reaching the marina in Kent Narrows, you must head uphill to cross over the causeway on the parallel US 50, where there is an extremely wide shoulder. At the marina, you have a choice: head left to Chesapeake Exploration Center or right to continue along the trail. Here, the trail becomes a series of sidewalks and access points to the waterfront and its restaurants and boat slips.
State: VA Length: 4 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Custis Trail is a popular urban route that links Virginia's D.C. suburbs with the District itself, connecting to both the W&OD Railroad Regional Park Trail at the latter's 4-mile marker and the Mount Vernon Trail at Roosevelt Island. The trail can be difficult for the aerobically challenged—its hills are quite a workout and more so if you are traveling east to west. The Custis Trail parallels I-66 but concrete barriers keep the traffic noise down. In places the trail is narrow and has a few blind curves, so cyclists should take them slowly to avoid colliding with the many runners and walkers you'll encounter. The trail begins in Rosslyn at the intersection of Lee Highway and Lynn Street and follows a wide sidewalk up the hill as it heads west. Beyond the Key Bridge Marriott Hotel, the trail turns to asphalt and becomes more narrow; the uphill climb is a grunt. The trail then crosses over I-66 and follows it to where the Custis hooks up with the W&OD Trail. From this area you can also cross the W&OD to the Four Mile Run Trail. Linking all these trails together provides more than 70 miles of non-motorized corridor.
State: VA Length: 15.70 miles Surface: Dirt
The Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail (DRHT) is currently a private-use trail only, which means a permit is required to use it. Friends of the DRHT are working to create public access to the trail, which traverses scenic forested landscape abounding with wildlife in Virginia's Northern Neck. The rail-trail follows the route of the old Dahlgren Branch Line from Dahlgren Naval Surface Warfare Center west toward Fredericksburg. Currently, horses are no allowed on the trail but Friends of the DRHT hope to secure permission one day. For more information, contact Friends of the DRHT.
State: MD Length: 5 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
Downs Park Trail is located in Downs Park on the Chesapeake Bay just north of Gibson Island. The 3.5-mile perimeter trail is paved, popular for walkers and cyclists alike, and an additional 1.5 miles of natural surface trail are offered. The trail passes through a heavily wooded corridor, skirting the bay and Bodkin Creek inlet. The 245-acre park also has ball fields, handball and basketball courts, boating, group camping areas, picnic pavilions, fishing pier, beaches (including a dog beach), visitor center and playground. There is a fee; park hours are 7 a.m. to dusk, Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays).
State: VA Length: 28.30 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Fairfax County Parkway Trail parallels the Fairfax County Parkway (Route 7100) in Fairfax County, Virginia. While this concrete and asphalt surface trail varies in width and condition, most the trail is usable for walking, biking, and inline skating. The trail connects to many other community trails and side paths along its route, as well as the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Railroad Regional Park near Reston. There is a gap in the trail near Burke, which can be bridged by using the side paths along Ox Road and Burke Centre Parkway.
State: DC Length: 7 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
Washington, D.C.'s Fort Circle Park Hiker-Biker Trail links some of the District's dozens of Civil War era forts (now national parks) that were built to defend the city from attack by the southern Rebels. The trail runs for 7 miles through a heavily forested greenbelt between Fort Mahan in the north and Fort Stanton in the south. But don't let the woods fool you, this is an urban trail with several busy road crossings, and navigating the starts and stops could get tricky in places. The trail is signed in most places but it also gets overgrown in summer, and muddy after rain, so be prepared to brush through vegetation along the route. The best way to see the trail is by guided bike tour (mountain bikes are best), offered the last Saturday every month (seasonal) with a Park Service ranger. The tours last 2 to 3 hours, covering 4 to 8 miles. Along the way, you'll learn about the history of D.C.'s forts and the Civil War. Cyclists meet at Fort Dupont's activity center. If you don't have a bike, the Park Service will provide one for you with advanced notice. In fact, it's best to call whether you bring your own bike or borrow one, to let them know you're coming: 202-426-7723.
State: VA Length: 6.20 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Four Mile Run Trail traverses the Four Mile Run stream valley and has many twists and turns, not to mention steep sections (mercifully short). In places, the trail more or less parallels the W&OD Trail, connecting to it in several places. Four Mile Run takes off from Bluemont Junction Park and heads to the Mount Vernon Trail where the latter meets the southern edge of Ronald Reagan National Airport and the Potomac River. The trail is wooded and crosses creek in numerous places. It's popular with runners, cyclists, dog-walkers and families. You'll also find a dog park off the trail in Shirlington. Phoenix Bikes, non-profit community bike shop, operates out of the Barcroft Sports Complex along Four Mile Run near George Mason Drive.
State: MD Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Dirt
Tucked in the meandering, wooded hills of the sprawling yet understated multimillion-dollar estates of Great Falls, just outside Washington, DC, is the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park. Home to the already famous C&O Canal Towpath, the Great Falls section of the park also hosts this unique rail-trail circuit. The trail begins at the hillside just beyond the historic, early 1800s-era Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. Start at the well-marked post and head up a series of stairs that are cut into the hillside and reinforced with logs. This is not your traditional rail-trail. Only part of it runs on the former railroad corridor, so prepare for some gentle uphill climbs. (The trail is off-limits to bicycles.) The trail, marked by a blue blaze, immediately takes you into the surrounding airy forest. After less than a mile, you reach the beginning of the actual loop. Take note: Detours on yellow-blazed spur trails along the route take you to the Maryland Mine ruins, where gold was processed from 1867 to 1939. Upon reaching the start of the loop, go either left or right; both ways will take you back to this starting point. If you head to the right, you will first come to the Woodland Trail Spur (one of six trail spurs along the loop), where you'll cross a tiny creek and the surface will change from dirt to gravel. If you are on the trail in the spring, several stands of red bud will be blooming, providing a vibrant color contrasts to the grayish-green of an awakening forest. At certain points, you may have to scramble over, under or around impressive felled trees, but they only add to the trail's woodland feel. When you return to the beginning of the loop, take the path back down to the visitor center and explore the rest of the park. Don't miss the nearby Great Falls overlook, which provides stunning views of the waterfall that separates the upper
State: MD Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Grist Mill Trail at Patapsco Valley State Park course for 2.5 miles through the heavily wooded park between Ilchester Road and Lost Lake. The trail is gentle and wheelchair accessible. It passes by the Swinging Bridge and Bloede's Dam. The bridge crosses the Patapsco at Orange Grove and allowed locals to cross the river to work in the Orange Grove Flour Mill. The mill burned in 1905, but you can cross the bridge to view the ruins. Bloede's Dam, on the National Register of Historic Places, is said to be the world's first submerged electrical generating plant, which was housed under water inside dam. You may not come within 300 feet of it both above and below the dam. Patapsco Valley State Park was created in 1907 and is one of Maryland's oldest state parks. As a consequence, the area has many historic sites and also preserves a valuable greenway in this urban area. Railroad remnants can also be seen, like that of the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad, which ran between Baltimore and Ellicott City.
State: MD Length: 15 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Gwynns Falls Trail is a 15-mile continuous corridor connecting dozens of west and southwest Baltimore neighborhoods with parks, historical and cultural landmarks and the urban business district. The trail leads a circuitous route through its namesake park and southeast to downtown Baltimore. The greenway provides a fantastic off-road way for cyclists and pedestrians to access the city and urban nature corridors, including more than 2,000 acres of publicly owned land within the Gwynns Falls stream valley. The Gwynns Falls Trail generally follows the creek to the Middle Branch the Patapsco River and also Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park itself has 10 miles of natural paths.
State: MD Length: 5.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Henson Creek Trail is located in the southwestern portion of Prince George's County, Maryland, and connects the growing District of Columbia suburbs of Fort Washington and Oxon Hill with the bedroom communities of Camp Springs and Temple Hills. The trail follows the course of Henson Creek for its entire route. Extending from Temple Hill Road southward to Oxon Hill Road, the trail passes through Henson Creek Neighborhood Park, crosses Brinkley Road through the Henson Creek Stream Valley Park, and then passes Rosecroft Raceway—a historic harness racing track—and a number of residential neighborhoods. The Tucker Road Community Center and Athletic Complex and Henson Creek Golf Course are also accessible via the trail. After crossing under busy Indian Head Highway/State Route 210, the Henson Creek Trail reaches its southern terminus at Oxon Hill Road (located about 1 mile south of the new National Harbor development). A grassy shoulder immediately adjacent to the paved trail accommodates equestrian users for the entire length of the greenway, but beware: Erosion is affecting portions of the route and caution should be exercised at all times. In the distant future, an extension farther north along the creek to Suitland Parkway will allow for a longer ride or run through the quiet scenery.
State: VA Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
This short trail parallels Herndon Parkway along the east side of the Town of Herndon in Northern Virginia. Much of the trail is the wide of a standard sidewalk, and includes crosswalks and curb-cuts at most street intersections. The trail also connects to the W&OD Trail, just north of Spring Street.
State: VA Length: 4.10 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
Holmes Run Trail offers a scenic pathway through the heart of a busy residential area in Alexandria, a suburb of Washington, DC. It's popular with bikers, joggers, and parents with children. The paved trail begins adjacent to Cameron Run Regional Park and Great Waves Waterpark. From there, it continues along a small stream, where you're likely to see geese and other water fowl, and past Ben Brenman Park, which offers a playground, restrooms, picnic areas, and parking. You'll pass through some fairly heavily wooded sections until the trail ends at North Chambliss Street.
State: MD Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
Maryland's Indian Creek Trail is one of the shorter components of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, but it serves as a vital link between the town of Berwyn Heights, Maryland, and scenic Lake Artemesia to its south. The trail runs entirely through dense woodlands, providing an abundance of shade and making this trail slightly cooler than others in the humid summer months. Begin your trek at Lake Artemesia, which contains trailheads for the Lake Artemesia Trail, Northeast Branch Trail, and Paint Branch Trail. About 1 mile north of the lake, the trail enters Indian Creek Park. The park features a playground, T-Ball field and a popular outdoor skating rink. The trail ends in the north at busy Greenbelt Road/State Route 193.
State: MD Length: 13.40 miles Surface: Asphalt
Located just 18 miles south of our nation's capital, the Indian Head Rail Trail offers a unique natural outdoor experience, seemingly far removed from development and life's often chaotic pace. The trail is the result of the generous gift of an abandoned railroad corridor—originally built in 1918 to transport supplies for the Navy's Indian Head Powder Factory—through the Department of the Interior's Federal Lands to Parks Program. The 13-mile, paved Indian Head Rail Trail traverses roughly halfway across Charles County, connecting the small towns of Indian Head and White Plains. Cyclists, hikers and nature enthusiasts can experience the surroundings of mature forests, natural wetlands and occasional farmland as they pass through the Mattawoman Creek stream valley and some of southern Maryland's most scenic and undeveloped natural areas. Along the way, trail users may encounter wildflowers, butterflies, dragonflies, wild turkeys, deer, herons, bald eagles, egrets and a variety of waterfowl. Near mile marker 2 there is a spectacular view of the backwaters of Mattawoman Creek, which winds on its course towards the Potomac River. The trail also offers numerous bridges, interpretative signs and benches.
The John Overstreet Connector is a 1.5-mile trail segment that links the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail and BWI Trail. The short—but vital—trail is named after Overstreet, a retiree from Glen Burnie, Maryland, and a great advocate for bicycle safety in Maryland. The connector begins at the end of the B&A Trail at Dorsey Road, passes through Saw Mill Creek Park and joins the BWI Trail at the intersection of Newport Road and Stewart Avenue.
State: MD Length: 6.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
When complete, the Jones Falls Trail will extend 10 miles between Baltimore's Inner Harbor and the Mount Washington Light Rail Station. Currently, a paved, off-road section runs from the Woodberry Light Rail Station south to Penn Station. A highlight of the journey is passage through Druid Hill Park, which offers a natural escape from city life. The park houses the Baltimore Zoo, the Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, and many other historical structures. After exiting the southeastern side of the park, the character of the trail's surroundings becomes more urban. Along the way, the Baltimore Street Car Museum is a worthwhile stop. The on-road portion of the trail begins past Penn Station and whisks you south to the Inner Harbor, a major tourist destination with restaurants, shops, museums, and other attractions. Navigating this section of the trail can be somewhat tricky; look for painted green trail markings along the ground to help guide you. Just before the Inner Harbor, you'll pass the Phoenix Shot Tower, a red brick pillar built in 1828 that stands more than 200 feet above downtown. Molten lead was once dropped from its top into a vat of cold water at the bottom to produce shot for pistols, rifles, and other weapons. It's one of only a handful of similar buildings around the country. Construction of the trail's northern segment, from Druid Hill to Mount Washington, is underway and will incorporate Cylburn Arboretum and Mount Washington Arboretum.
State: MD Length: 5.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Kent Island South Trail is one of two popular recreational trails (along with the Cross Island Trail) on Maryland's Kent Island, the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay. The trail runs parallel to Romancoke Road/State Route 8 for its entire length. The trail begins at Matapeake State Park and ends at Romancoke Pier, offering an off-road route for bicyclists, walkers and runners from the Chesapeake Bay to Eastern Bay. Along the way, the trail passes several residential neighborhoods and the Blue Heron Golf Course. Nearly half of the route runs through woods, while the other half passes through open fields.
State: VA Length: 4.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Gravel
In Northern Virginia's suburban community of Springfield, Lake Accotink Park provides a wilderness escape amid the city surroundings. The 500-acre park features picnic areas, miniature golf, an antique carousel, a 55-acre lake with canoe and kayak rentals and, of course, trails. The Lake Accotink Trail follows part of the former rail bed of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, along which soldiers and materials were transported during the Civil War. Historical markers outline the railroad's history and help mark the entry to the park. At the trail's start, it's impossible to miss the still-operating trestle bridge running high above Accotink Creek. The creek's dam, constructed more then 50 years ago, created a popular fishing hole. As you leave the picnic and boat-rental area behind, the trail shoots up a short, steep hill toward the woods surrounding the lake. The first half of this route hugs the lake's curves as it travels deeper into the small woodlands preserve that provides shade and wonderful views of marshland and the lake. When you reach the fork in the road at the trail's midpoint, either continue straight to get another 0.75-mile jaunt on the rail-trail before it dead-ends at Rolling Road, or follow the trail marker indicating a right turn to loop back to your starting point. This 4.5-mile option takes you down a short hill and onto neighborhood sidewalks for three or four blocks and past an elementary school before you return to the park. On the main route, several stairs lead downhill to a bridge and back to the Lake Accotink Trail, which circles around the other side of the lake, to the creek and surrounding marshland. Your round trip will end with a wonderful view of the antique carousel and geese swimming in the shallow lake waters.
State: MD Length: 1.35 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Lake Artemesia Trail—one component of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System—completely encircles its scenic eponymous lake in Prince George's County, Maryland. The trail is also a great starting point for longer treks, as it directly connects with the Paint Branch Trail, Indian Creek Trail, and Northeast Branch Trail. Lake Artemesia was developed during the 1976 construction of the adjacent Washington Metro rail line. A fishing pier can be found on the north end of the lake, and restrooms and a water fountain are located near the trail's midpoint. Several gazebos dot the lake's shoreline as well, making the man-made lake a beautiful place for a picnic, rest, recreation or exercise. A popular birding trail can also be found nearby.
State: VA Length: 5.40 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail runs parallel to Linton Hall Road in western Prince William County. The trail services a number of the surrounding communities, such as Broadlands, and acts as a recreation and transportation route for the local residents.
State: VA Length: 0.30 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Opened in September 2009, this multi-purpose trail is the first phase of a connector trail that will connect to the future extension of the Warrenton Branch Greenway. A walking/mountain bike trail that will connect the other two-thirds of the trail is currently under development and will be open in the spring of 2010. When the Greenway extension is completed in future years these trails will provide a multipurpose trail from the Town of Warrenton to the Community College.
State: VA Length: 1.13 miles Surface:
From the Town of Lovettsville, VA web site:
Pedestrian/Bike Path on 287
VDOT awarded Highway Enhancement Grant Funds to the Town to develop a Pedestrian/Bike Path along 287 through the Town of Lovettsville. Loudoun County Gas Tax money has also been appropriated for this project. The Town negotiated an agreement with VDOT authorizing them to administer the design and construction of the project, which was signed in March, 2009 so that design can begin. Based on current estimates, available funding is expected to complete preliminary engineering as well as begin final design and construction for an initial phase of the trail. It is hoped that more funding will be obtained to complete the project. Completing the preliminary engineering will help to position the Town for any funding that may be available.
State: MD Length: 8 miles Surface: Asphalt
A very useful bike path in Bethesda which runs along MacArthur Blvd from Anglers Inn to the DC District Line at the DC Waterworks. Along the way it passes shops in Cabin John and Glen Echo. It makes a nice circle with the C & O Canal Towpath trail with connections at Anglers Inn, Brickyard Road and at the west and east ends of the Brookmont development. It connect's with the Capital Crescent Trail and the Little Falls Creek path at the corner of MacArthur and Sangamore Road. You can also continue along the sidewalk around the Decarlia Water Works and connect to the Capital Crescent Trail via a short dirt path at the end of Norton Street in Potomac Palisades.
State: VA Length: 0.75 miles Surface: Concrete
The Mary Washington Hospital Trail runs along the southeast border of the hospital center, proving a pleasant stroll or gentle bike ride for hospital visitors and patients.
State: MD Length: 4.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Matthew Henson Trail runs along a paved surface (rough in places from tree roots) through a narrow band of forested green space between the Rock Creek Trail just south of Veirs Road and Alderton Road at Norwest Branch Park. About 0.5 mile of the trail is boardwalk. The southwest end of the trail follows the course of Turkey Branch through Matthew Henson State Park. Northeast of Georgia Avenue the trial continues through Matthew Henson Greenway, Bel Pre Neighborhood Park (with connections to both the northern and southern stubs of Rippling Brook Drive) and Layhill Village Local Park, with an eastern terminus connecting to both the northern and southern stubs of Alderton Road.
State: DC, MD Length: 8 miles Surface: Asphalt
Following the route of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Metropolitan Branch rail line, the Met Branch Trail is a busy urban rail-with-trail that shares a corridor with Metro's Red Line, MARC commuter service, CSX freight trains and Amtrak. Currently, the trail is a mix of on-road and off-road facilities. Beginning at Union Station with a wide sidepath along 2nd Street, NE, the trail becomes an off-road pathway for 1.5 miles between L Street, NE, and Franklin Street. Via grade-separated crossings of Rhode Island, New York and Florida avenues, this section of the trail provides a link between many of Northeast D.C.'s neighborhoods, including Brookland, Eckington, Edgewood and NoMa. Continuing north, the trail is routed on 8th Street, NE, and along a sidepath on John McCormack Road near Catholic University. From here, the Met Branch follows a signed on-street bike route to Takoma Park, where a small section of off-road trail crosses the border between the District and Maryland. Future plans call for the replacement of portions of the current on-street route with an off-road trail, as well as a direct connection with an extended Capital Crescent Trail in Silver Spring.
State: MD Length: 3 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 3-mile separated multi-use path along Middletown Road allows for safe recreation and transportation along the western side of Waldorf, Maryland. The trail begins just south of State Route 228 and runs to Billingsley Road, approximately 1 mile north of the Indian Head Rail Trail. Residential neighborhoods—interrupted only by the large campus of Westlake High School—line the suburban route.
State: VA Length: 18 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail is one of the Washington, D.C. Metro area's most popular trials. Just across the Potomac River from D.C. in Virginia, the trail links Theodore Roosevelt Island Park with George Washington's Estate in Mount Vernon. The trail follows the course of the Potomac, passing through parks, yacht clubs, wetlands, neighborhoods, towns and wooded acres. The trail is mostly paved but some sections are boardwalk. In many places the winding trail is narrow, and because it is heavily used (especially on weekends), all recreationists—whether on foot, skates or bike—must use caution when passing others and when entering the trail from any of its many access points. Cyclists must dismount at a some bridge crossings. At the midpoint of the Mount Vernon Trail, navigating Old Town Alexandria can be tricky. You have two routes to choose from, both of which are on-street. From north to south, one route follows E. Abingdon Drive to Bashford Lane to Royal Street. Or you can simply ride along George Washington Memorial Parkway and pick up the trail again south of I-95/495 (on the river side of the road). The other route, more preferred by some, veers to the left (coming from the north) and picks up Union Street. From here you have easy access to Alexandria's waterfront parks, restaurants and shops. The marina boardwalk area is lively will all kinds of entertainment year-round but mainly between Memorial Day and Labor Day. You can return to the trail at the end of Union Street near the nice townhomes along the river. Recently, a superb multi-use, wide, paved trail flanks the northern side of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge (I-95/495), taking you across the Potomac River to National Harbor in Maryland. Here you'll find dozens of shops and restaurants, not to mention the occasional waterside entertainment (water-ski shows and boating events). Heading south from Alexandria, the Mount Vernon Trail passes under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and through m
State: MD Length: 4 miles Surface: Asphalt
This North Bethesda Trail is at a short trail that connects North Bethesda with access to the Capital Crescent Trail, primarily by bridging two major highways. The main aspects of this trail are the two pedestrian- and bicycle-only bridges across Interstate 270 and Interstate 495, the Beltway. Serious riders and walkers will certainly enjoy the convenience of having such dedicated bridges available, however the length of the trail, lack of actual connection to other trails or places, and the repeated reliance on streets to connect between dedicated sections make this trail either a local's only resource for low impact recreation, or a bicycle commuter's solution to crossing the nearby interstates.
State: MD Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Northeast Branch Trail follows the levee along the—you guessed it—Northeast Branch of the Anacostia River from the Lake Artemesia Natural Area to Baltimore Avenue/US 1 (south of Hyattsville). The trail is one part of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which includes a number of linked trails in Prince George's County. Begin your journey at scenic Lake Artemesia, which has taken on a de facto role as a trail hub since the lake's construction in 1976. At the southern end of the lake, you can connect directly with the Lake Artemesia Trail, Indian Creek Trail, and Paint Branch Trail. South of the lake, the trail skirts the edge of the College Park Airport before entering a dense wooded forest. The trail continues through the woods past a large property used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration before emerging into Riverdale Park. The popular park contains playgrounds, ball fields, restrooms and a water fountain. The rest of the route runs through open space behind old residences in the towns of Hyattsville and Riverdale, offering great views of the Anacostia River. At the trail's southern end, connect directly with the Northwest Branch Trail to continue north to Montgomery County, or take the Anacostia River Trail to travel to Bladensburg.
State: MD Length: 7 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Northwest Branch Trail—an integral part of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System—runs between the Maryland towns of Hyattsville and Silver Spring, linking two bustling suburbs of Washington, DC. The trail is so named because it follows the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River for its entire route. The trail starts in the south in Prince George's County, just north of where the river splits into its northeast and northwest branches. Appropriately, direct connections to the Northeast Branch Trail and Anacostia River Trail can be found here. North of this trail hub, the Northwest Branch Trail runs past a succession of parks, including Melrose Park, Magruder Park and 38th Avenue Park. The trail quickly crosses the waterway, rounds a bend, and then crosses the river once more. Shortly after the West Hyattsville Metro Station, the winding Sligo Creek Trail forks off to the northwest. After crossing under East-West Highway/State Route 410, the trail runs through dense woodlands that will make you forget you are in a major population center. The large Lane Manor Park next appears immediately to the east. At Adelphi Mill Park (near the trail's midpoint), visit the only surviving historic mill in Prince George's County. Past the mill, the pathway reenters a wooded environment. A steep gravel connection at the trail's end climbs up to Oakview Drive, which leads to busy New Hampshire Avenue/State Route 650. If you are on foot or horse, you can choose to continue on the trail several miles farther north to Wheaton Regional Park; just don't take the gravel spur to Oakview Drive. This section is unpaved and is closed to bicyclists.
State: MD Length: 0.33 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The #8 Streetcar Path runs just a short distance (0.33 mile) along part of the route of the former streetcar system that once ran between Catonsville and Ellicott City. The streetcar operated from 1896 to 1963. Also part of the same line is Trolley Line #9. In 1996 the Old Catonsville Neighborhood Association cleaned up the trail, and in 1999 Catonsville Rails to Trails was formed to assume stewardship of the trail. This delightful path features a 20-foot mural of a streetcar, and historical markers along the way relate its streetcar days. In addition, you'll find a restored waiting station at Catonsville Junction.
State: VA Length: 11.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Ox Road Sidepath is a paved asphalt trail that runs parallel to Ox Rd in Fairfax County. The trails runs from the George Mason University Fairfax Campus to just south of the former Lorton Correctional Facility. The trail connects to the Fairfax County Parkway Trail in Burke. Burke Lake Park is also accessible from the trail.
State: MD Length: 2.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
Maryland is home to two Paint Branch Trails, this one in Montgomery County and another farther south in Prince George's County. This Paint Branch Trail offers a well-shaded, paved pathway stretching 2 miles through the northern end of Silver Spring, from Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Park to Fairland Road. The park offers restrooms, drinking fountains, picnic shelters, and athletic facilities. The trail is easy to follow with gentle grades. An underpass allows trail-goers to safely cross busy East Randolph Road. Views include its namesake stream and historical mills circa the 1700s.
Prince George's County's Paint Branch Trail (not to be confused with Montgomery County's Paint Branch Trail farther north) runs for 3.5 miles between Lake Artemesia and Cherry Hill Neighborhood Park in the Washington, DC suburb of College Park. The trail is a part of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which provides miles of off-road paved paths along the various branches of the Anacostia River. The Paint Branch Trail begins in the south at scenic Lake Artemesia, where you can connect directly with the Indian Creek Trail, Lake Artemesia Trail, and Northeast Branch Trail. The trail exits the Lake Artemesia Natural Area at its southwest corner, where it travels under Washington Metro railroad tracks and enters a wooded area. After crossing busy Route 1 (trail users must travel south along the sidewalk for a short distance before rejoining the off-road route), the trail continues past the eastern edge of the main campus of the University of Maryland. Soon the trail reenters a heavily-wooded landscape, passes under University Boulevard/State Route 193 and skirts the edge of the Paint Branch Golf Course. The final section of the trail extends north to Cherry Hill Neighborhood Park. A proposed extension of the Paint Branch Trail under Interstate 495 north to Beltsville's Community Center on Sellman Road has entered the design phase; when complete, the Paint Branch Trail will connect directly with the existing Little Paint Branch Trail in Beltsville, creating a continuous 10-mile trail.
State: MD Length: 4.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Crushed Stone
The Patuxent Branch Trail is part of a 20-mile trail system over and around the rolling hills of Howard County that follows a former Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line along the Patuxent River. The trail begins in Savage Park. Follow signs along the trail indicating the direction to Lake Elkhorn. When you reach Vollmer Hausen Road, turn left and stay on the sidewalk to find where the trail picks up on the other side of the road at the bottom of this short hill. A crosswalk eases you across this busy road. A little more than half of the trail is paved and the other half has a gravel surface. A small portion of the trail includes a bridle path. Ten bridges help keep you dry as you travel through this floodplain. The most impressive feature is the 1902 Guilford Pratt Truss Bridge, a symbol of Howard County's two most important industries: the railroad and the granite quarry. Signs along the trail explain the historical significance of both industries, and the trail will take you straight through the grounds of a quarry that operated until 1928. The rail-trail ends at Lake Elkhorn, but picnic facilities, a playground, parking, a boat slip and a walking and biking path around the lake may keep you going. Or you can head back to the Savage Park entrance of the Patuxent Branch Trail and pick up the flatter and shorter Savage Mill Trail, which begins just a few blocks away.
State: MD Length: 2.30 miles Surface:
From the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Greenway Commission:
The Popes Creek Railroad is a proposed rail trail in the southwest portion of the county that would run adjacent to Popes Creek from the Potomac River to U.S. 301. A stone or ash surface, suitable for both biking and hiking, is envisioned. The trail would be approximately three miles long.
State: MD Length: 0.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
Annapolis' Poplar Trail runs for nearly 1 mile on a section of the old Washington, Baltimore & Annapolis right-of-way in the heart of Maryland's capital city. Although short, the trail is a vital part of Annapolis' trail system, as it links residential neighborhoods with two elementary schools, athletic fields and a public library. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is also within sight of the trail. Future plans call for the extension of the trail west of Admiral Road to link directly with the proposed South Shore Trail, which will eventually take trail users an additional 10 miles to the city of Odenton on the same abandoned WB&A corridor.
State: VA Length: 2 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt
The Rappahannock Canal Walk follows the old towpath along the disused canal just northwest of downtown Fredericksburg. The path follows a winding course past old suburban back yards and through a wooded corridor with a rural feel. At the east end of the trail is the town's main street (US 1/17/Princess Anne Street), which take you into the historical downtown. The western end of the trail passes by the hospital, where you can link to the Mary Washington Hospital Trail.
State: MD Length: 1.50 miles Surface:
This trail is an extension of the existing College Park Trolley Trail :
From Metro Washington Council of Governments :
Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail (Prince George's County) This project will extend the existing Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail south to Hyattsville and the Northwest Branch Trail. It will provide bike and pedestrian access through several residential communities and to the Riverdale Park Town Center.
State: DC Length: 8.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
Located in the northwest section of Washington, D.C., Rock Creek Park is the oldest and largest urban park in the national park system. Established in 1890, Rock Creek offers more than 1,700 acres of natural area for a variety of uses. Trails are numerous and are a mix of natural surface for for hikers, runners and equestrians and paved paths for cyclists and other users. The paved trail runs parallel to Beach Drive and Oregon Avenue, although many other routes are available. The trail systems runs from the Maryland Border at Beach Drive south to the Roosevelt Bridge (I-66) behind the Kennedy Center. At the Maryland border, you can continue north on the paved Rock Creek Trail. Hikers and runners should use caution on the unpaved off-road trails. Equestrians, note that only some of the off-road trails are marked for horse use. Cyclists should be aware that there is no off-road bike path option on the northern section of Beach Drive. While this section of road is marked as an on-road bicycle route, bicycling here is not recommended on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, though, Beach Drive is partially closed to through traffic, creating an on-road route that bicyclists, in-line skaters and walkers and runners flock to. For more information, including maps of the park, please see the Trail Website.
Rock Creek Trail forms a winding path, at times narrow, through the urban greenway of Rock Creek Regional Park. The trail extends between Needwood Lake northeast of Rockville, MD, and the Washington, D.C., border, 14 miles south. Although the area is urbanized, the trail route is through a mostly wooded corridor that encompasses Rock Creek, as it flows toward the Potomac River. It's a popular trail despite that it's not always well marked, and you may find yourself taking unexpected side paths in different directions. In addition, the trail is often covered in branches and leaves, and the asphalt heaves in many places from tree roots. If you're on a bike, take it slowly and enjoy the green refuge, giving way to runners and walkers. At the south end, along Beach Drive, the trail enters Washington, D.C., and continues as the Rock Creek Park Trail.
State: MD Length: 5.20 miles Surface: Asphalt
The separated multi-use Rosewick Road Sidepath provides a direct link for both recreation and transportation between the southern Maryland communities of St. Charles and La Plata. The path runs immediately adjacent to Rosewick Road/St. Charles Parkway and offers convenient access to Laurel Springs Regional Park and White Plains Regional Park. Most of the land along the route is undeveloped and remains forested, and the trail has few road intersections.
State: MD Length: 1 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Gravel
The Savage Mill Trail in Savage Park travels along the rolling Patuxent River through the grounds of an old cotton mill. In the early 1800s, Savage was a major manufacturing center, harnessing power produced by the falls on the Little and Middle Patuxent rivers. Near the trailhead stands an 1822 textile mill, today renovated as a shopping center where you can buy antiques or grab a picnic lunch to enjoy on the pleasant 1-mile trail. The trail begins at an old Bollman truss bridge, an iron structure used exclusively by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Built in 1869, the bridge was moved to Savage in 1887. Though the company built about 100 of these bridges before 1873, only two of Mr. Bollman's bridges still exist in the States. The train tracks have been left in place on one side of the bridge, so you can imagine the train passing beside you as you ride or walk over this piece of history. Most of the trail is paved and flat, but the surface changes to gravel and then dirt before it ends abruptly in the middle of the woods. Although you are near a major highway, and the bustle of the shopping center, the music of the river rolling over large boulders and the white oaks surrounding the trail create the impression that you're in the wilderness. It's easy to stop and savor the natural oasis at one of the trail's many picnic tables. The Savage Mill Trail is part of a larger, 20-mile system of pathways through Howard County. For a more challenging trip, hit the Patuxent Branch Trail, which begins a few blocks away.
State: MD Length: 22.10 miles Surface: Dirt
Seneca Creek Greenway Trail was built by a coalition of organizations and follows the meandering Seneca Creek near Germantown, MD, from the Potomac River to State Route 355 (Frederick Road). NOTE: Only parts of the trail are multi-use; horses and bikes are prohibited in certain segments. Use restrictions are as follows. For a detailed description of each segment, visit the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail online. * Potomac River to Berryville Rd.: hikers only (2.2 miles) * Berryville Rd. to Darnestown Rd./SR 28: hikers and horses only; NO bikes (4.4 miles) * Darnestown Rd./SR 28 to Riffleford Rd.: hikers only, NO horses or bikes (5.2 miles) * Riffleford Rd. to Clopper: hikers and restricted bike use to Long Draft Trail only (yellow blaze); NO horses (2.3 miles) * Clopper to Frederick Rd./SR 355: hikers only; NO horses or bikes (2.3 miles) Between Frederick Rd./SR 355 and Watkins Mill Road, the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail is multi-use, permitting hikers, equestrians, and cyclists. It runs for 8.2 miles, continuing along the winding course of Seneca Creek. For a detailed description of the segments along this section of the trail, visit the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail online.
State: MD Length: 10.20 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Sligo Creek Trail parallels the eponymous waterway from its confluence with the Northwest Branch in Hyattsville to just north of its origin in Wheaton in Montgomery County. Along the way, a number of footbridges cross back and forth over the creek, and picnic areas and playgrounds line the route. Often referred to as one of the most scenic trails in the area, the Sligo Creek Trail also connects with many other trails in the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, in which it is a component. Begin your journey in Hyattsville, where the trail splits from the Northwest Branch Trail. 0.5 mile into the trek, the path runs through Green Meadows Park, which contains soccer fields, tennis courts and other athletic facilities. While the trail occupies a central location in the urbanized Maryland suburbs of the District of Columbia, you would never know it while passing through the quiet and heavily-wooded landscape. A handful of neighborhood connector trails provide easy access for residents of the towns along the Sligo Creek Trail's route. After crossing busy New Hampshire Avenue/State Route 650, the trail parallels Sligo Creek Parkway/SR 787. On some nice days you might actually see more trail traffic than vehicular traffic on the road! In Takoma Park, the trail passes directly behind Washington Adventist Hospital, and farther north, trail users will pass the property of Silver Spring's Holy Cross Hospital at I-495 (the Beltway). Meandering a couple of miles northward, the Sligo Creek Trail ends just south of the entrance to the impressive Wheaton Regional Park, which features a large playground, ice rink, fishing lake, many picnic shelters and even a merry-go-round and miniature train for the kids.
State: MD Length: 10.30 miles Surface:
The South Shore Trail is part of the Grand History Trail concept. For more information, visit www.railstotrails.org/grandhistorytrail:
The South Shore Trail is a planned multi-use rail trail project that would utilize the portion of the WB&A running between Odenton and Bestgate Road in Annapolis. The 10.3-mile trail would be linked in Odenton to the WB&A Trail, which would connect to Prince Georges Countys WB&A Trail at the Patuxent River. The county is currently working on a right-of-way acquisition. This trail will also be a component of both the East Coast Greenways (ECG) and the American Discovery Trail (ADT).
State: MD Length: 1.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
The St. Michaels Nature Trail skirts the western edge of the scenic town of St. Michaels, Maryland, which was built on the site of a 17th century Anglican church that eventually lent the settlement its name. Now the town is a popular tourist destination, buoyed—pun intended—by the presence of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and its historic artifacts and vessels. Since 2010, visitors have also come to St. Michaels for its paved nature trail. The path starts on South Talbot Street just north of Heathington Farm Road. From there, the trail runs northwest through a dedicated parking lot (located across from the Bay Hundred community swimming pool) before coursing through the woods past some of the town's residences. A short covered wooden bridge takes trail users across San Domingo Creek, which is a popular spot for fishing. The nature trail then travels past a horse farm and cemetery before reaching its end at Bradley Park on Railroad Avenue. The trail occupies a portion of an abandoned Baltimore, Chesapeake and Atlantic Railway (later Baltimore and Eastern Railroad) corridor that originally stretched from the small community of Claiborne on the Chesapeake Bay to Ocean City on the Atlantic Ocean. As a great example of successful co-use, the trail shares its route with overhead electric power lines. In the near future, St. Michaels plans to extend the nature trail farther north to Perry Cabin Park, while a new rail-trail is planned for a portion of the same right-of-way 10 miles east of St. Michaels in the town of Easton.
State: VA Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
The Stafford Farm Connector Trail provides just over a mile of scenic walking or biking through open meadows and gently rolling hills. Highlights of this natural surface path include creek crossings and views of a historic mill.
The Stringfellow Road Sidepath runs for three miles through the Chantilly/Centreville portion of Western Fairfax County in Northern Virginia. This asphalt and concrete trail connects multiple neighborhoods as well as Chantilly High School and Rocky Run Stream Valley Park.
State: VA Length: 4.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail runs parallel to the southern 4.5 miles of Sudley Manor Drive in western Prince William County. The trail services a number of the surrounding communities, such as Broadlands, and acts as a recreation and transportation route for the local residents.
State: DC Length: 1.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Suitland Parkway trail is a short paved multi-use path that runs adjacent to Suitland Parkway in SE D.C. to the border with Maryland. Proposed construction may extend the trail to the Branch Avenue Metro Station in Prince George's County, Maryland (near Andrews Air Force Base), but these plans seem to be on hold for now.
Southern Maryland's Three Notch Trail is a work-in-progress under the guidance of St. Mary's County and other stakeholders. When complete, the recreational trail will extend 28 miles along an abandoned Washington, Brandywine and Point Lookout Railroad right-of-way from Hughesville in Charles County south to Lexington Park in St. Mary's County. The future southern endpoint will be at the access road for Naval Air Station Patuxent River; the trail thus has the potential to be a vital active transportation corridor for the base's thousands of workers. As of 2013, three portions of the Three Notch Trail are open for use. In the north, the oldest section of trail begins at Thompson Corner Road/State Route 236 in New Market and whisks trail users past the Charlotte Hall Library, St. Mary's County Welcome Center, Charlotte Hall Veterans Home and Northern County Senior Center. North of the center, the trail runs past residences in Charlotte Hall before ending at the intersection of Deborah Drive and Leonardtown Road/State Route 5. Local Amish and Mennonite residents are permitted to bring horses and buggies onto this section of the trail as an alternative to the congested local highways. A second disconnected section of trail is open between the town of Laurel Grove and the southern edge of Mechanicsville. The route begins at Laurel Grove's John V. Baggett Park, which contains basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields and softball fields. North of the park, the trail is enveloped by wooded scenery for nearly the entire length of the trek to Point Lookout Road/SR 5. The southernmost open section of trail begins at the Wildewood Shopping Center at Wildewood Boulevard in the town of California. Private developers constructed much of the route south of this point; trail users should be aware that this portion of the Three Notch Trail courses between commercial properties and crosses numerous busy parking lot access roads. The trail currently ends in the sout
State: MD Length: 21 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Northern Central Railroad Trail, completed in 1984, is one of the best hiking and biking trails in the Mid-atlantic region. It allows for more than 20 miles of flat travel on the crushed-stone surface, punctuated by a number of access points and an abundance of trees that provide refreshing shade on hot summer days. The trail begins in Cockeysville, Maryland, a suburb of Baltimore, and ends just over the state line in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, where the Mason-Dixon Line divides the southern Atlantic states from the Northeastern states. The history of the rail-trail dates back to 1832, when the Northern Central Railroad carried passengers—people vacationing at Bentley Springs—and freight between Baltimore and York or Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The railroad ran for about 140 years, and you can still see part of the old bed, which was converted to a rail-tail in the early 1980s. Today, the Northern Central Railroad Trail is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as part of the Gunpowder Falls State Park. Amenities along the route include picnic and park benches, drinking fountains for hikers and bikers—dogs too—and portable restrooms. Just off the trail you can enjoy a small art gallery, an antique shop and several places to buy food and drinks. Hotels and motels can be found within a mile of the trail, and there is easy access to a bike shop that rents and repairs bikes. The trail cuts through several charming Maryland towns: Monkton (a major stop for hikers and bikers), Parkton, Falls Overlook and Bentley Springs. At the MD–PA border near New Freedom, PA, the trail continues as the Heritage Rail Trail County Park. The trail is used by an eclectic mix of horseback riders, joggers, walkers, hikers, bikers and people of all ages. On the weekends, the trail is heavily used by local residents and travelers from the Baltimore area, so par
State: MD Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Asphalt, Boardwalk
The first thing you may notice about Trolly Line #9 is the boardwalk that curves between the bluffs of massive rock. The granite was hand cut in the 1890s when the electric streetcar rails were built from Ellicott City to Catonsville. Today these 100-foot-high walls create a striking gateway to the trail from historic Ellicott City just across the Patapsco River from Oella. The boardwalk quickly gives way to pavement as the trail winds uphill through the woods. On your left, a babbling stream feeding into the Patapsco River provides a peaceful soundtrack to your journey. Tall shade trees keep the trail—and you—cool when you climb through the woodlands and occasionally pass homes that border the trail. Near the 1-mile mark a short detour off the trail will take you to Banneker Historical Park & Museum, which has nature trails, archaeological sites and living history areas re-creating the Colonial farm life of Benjamin Banneker, an African-American astronomer and farmer. Back on the trail, the rustic scenery gives way to a more suburban landscape. The few road crossings are well marked and the gradual slope makes for a pleasant trip both up and downhill. When you reach the end of the trail, simply turn around and head back downhill to enjoy Ellicott City, including the Baltimore & Ohio Train Museum, which highlights the history of the nation's first railroad.
State: MD Length: 10.25 miles Surface: Asphalt
Central Maryland's WB&A Trail occupies an abandoned Washington, Baltimore & Annapolis Electric Railway corridor—hence its name—for its entire route. The railroad operated electric commuter trains between its three namesake cities from 1908 to 1935. Since its closure, portions of the original corridor have been converted to roads, light-rail lines and rail-trails (as in this case). The WB&A Trail is currently open in two discontinuous segments. The northern section of the trail in Anne Arundel County runs for 3.8 miles between downtown Odenton and the rural intersection of Conway Road and Bragers Road. The trail begins by traveling through the suburban backyards of Odenton and Piney Orchard. From Strawberry Lake Way to Bragers Road farther south, the trail's route is mostly wooded. In Prince George's County, the WB&A Trail stretches between State Route 450 in Glenn Dale and the Patuxent River in Patuxent River Park. The trail links the suburbs with the park and—like the southern portion of the Anne Arundel segment—passes through a heavily-wooded corridor. This part of the trail features five bridge crossings, two tunnels and two at-grade intersections. Along the way, you will find rest areas with bike racks and benches. There are plans to fill in the 1.4-mile gap in the trail between Bragers Road and the Patuxent River, but local property disputes must first be worked out before a bridge spanning the river can be designed and constructed.
State: VA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Warrenton Branch Greenway follows a segment of the old Warrenton Branch Spur railroad, running 1.5 miles between the trailhead behind the restaurant at the depot in downtown Warrenton (4th St. near Lee St.) and Castle Kingston Lane just east of the Bypass (US 15/17/29). The trail is great for railroad history buffs: you can see an old turntable and a retired caboose, the latter donated by the Norfolk and Western Railroad. In addition there are plans to build an amphitheater at the depot end of the trail, which would use a railroad flat car for a stage.
State: VA Length: 45 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail (W&OD) is one of the suburban Washington, D.C.'s most popular rail-trails. The heavily used trail is frequented by commuters and recreationists alike, and is a fantastic link between Virginia's rural and historical past and the nation's capital. The W&OD Railroad was built on the eve of the Civil War in 1858. At times both a passenger line and a freight line, the railroad eventually lost out to more efficient modes of transportation and went into disuse in 1968. In 1982 the Northern Virginia Parks Association bought the right-of-way and maintains the trail today with the help of volunteers of the Friends of the W&OD. The trail is exceptionally well marked, with posts indicating every 0.5 mile. The trail begins in the Shirlington section of Arlington, Virginia, at a nicely conceived information area that features a drinking fountain (summers only) and interpretive signs. In fact, you'll find interpretive signs scattered all along the route, each telling the story of the people and places along the rail line. This part of Shirlington itself is a nice starting or ending point—just a few blocks away is a nicely revitalized shopping and dining district, which includes a movie theater. In addition, if you want to head into DC from here, just cross Shirlington Road and pick up the Four Mile Run Trail. On the W&OD Trail from Shirlington, the trail is quite urban for a few miles, but you soon leave trappings of the city behind to enter more leafy suburbs. From east to west, the trail does gain elevation albeit gradually. However, if you start in Purcellville and head to Shirlington, you won't have to peddle so hard. Bleaumont Park (at 3.5 miles) is one of many picnic areas and parks within the trail's first 10 miles; it's a great rest stop and has both water and restrooms. You'll also find an old caboose here, one of many along the way. At 5.5 miles the
State: VA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The West Ox Road Sidepath is a short trail paved trail along the West side of West Ox Road. The trail extends from the Oak Hill address of Fairfax County to the Fairfax/Fair Oaks area.
White's Mill Trail provides a scenic route through wetlands and residential areas in the rural town of Warrenton. Trail-goers will enjoy the natural beauty of the Cedar Run valley and wildlife viewing along the path.
State: MD, VA Length: 3.30 miles Surface: Concrete
The Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail provides a superb link between Alexandria, VA, and Maryland's National Harbor over the Potomac River. This well-used trail crosses on the up-river side of the bridge and the concrete path is wide enough to accommodate many users. There are stations ("bump-outs") with viewing scopes along the drawbridge, and a high, plexiglass wall on a portion of the trail provides a noise barrier from the heavy traffic. A nicely developed and landscaped park has been created on the flyover, which takes you across I-495. There are benches and some interesting pavers with carved glyphs of the fish species found in the Potomac River. At National Harbor, you'll find plenty of shops, restaurants, harbor entertainment during summer and the striking Gaylord Resort. It's marvelous atrium makes for a nice visit. On the Virginia side the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail meets up with the Mount Vernon Trail at the George Washington Parkway/Rt. 400. Cyclists note the 10-MPH speed limit on the trail, which is also a good idea because of the bridge's many steel joints that can damage bike tires and rims at high speeds. Also, because the trail is heavily used by many pedestrians, cyclists should slow down and give way to slower traffic. The trail is closed between midnight and 5:30 a.m. In addition, it's a drawbridge and may open periodically, so pay attention to warning lights and bells.