The best cycling routes in Prince George's County

There are over 70 touring cycling routes in Prince George's County, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

Prince George's County offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists, featuring an exquisite natural backdrop of rivers, woods, and open countryside. You'll find extensive trail systems, including both paved and unpaved surfaces, with a mix of flat paths and gentle inclines, making it accessible for various skill levels.

Yes, Prince George's County is very welcoming for beginners, with 48 easy touring cycling routes available. Many of these are on well-paved surfaces, such as sections of the Anacostia River Trail and the WB&A Trail, providing a comfortable ride for all fitness levels. A good example is the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, which is an easy 4.5-mile path.

The county's routes often follow scenic rivers like the Anacostia and Patuxent, offering views of waterways and diverse habitats. You can also experience areas with significant tree canopies and natural parklands. While public access is limited, the region is home to unique natural areas like Belt Woods, one of the last stands of old-growth hardwood forest on the Atlantic Coastal Plain.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Prince George's County are designed as loops, providing convenient starting and ending points. For instance, the Audi Field – Anacostia Riverwalk Trail loop from College Park is a moderate 26.4-mile option, and the Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt offers a 20-mile easy ride through varied landscapes.

Many routes pass by or near interesting attractions. You can cycle past College Park Airport, enjoy the waterfront at National Harbor Waterfront & Capital Wheel, or visit Lake Artemesia. Bladensburg Waterfront Park, located along the Anacostia River, is also a popular spot with amenities and trail connections.

Absolutely. Prince George's County has numerous trails suitable for families, with many easy, paved routes. Parks like Walker Mill Regional Park offer over 500 acres of natural beauty with easy, paved trails. The Anacostia River Trail system is also popular for family bike rides, often hosting guided events.

Yes, several trail systems in Prince George's County have good public transport access. The Anacostia River Trail, for example, connects to Washington, D.C., via the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which can be reached by various transit options. Many trails also have multiple access points, making them convenient to reach.

Many parks and trailheads throughout Prince George's County offer dedicated parking facilities. For example, Bladensburg Waterfront Park provides parking and direct access to the Anacostia Tributary Trail System. Other trails like the WB&A Trail and Sligo Creek Trail also have numerous access points with parking available nearby.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Prince George's County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winter cycling is possible, though some unpaved trails might be less accessible, and appropriate gear is recommended.

Yes, Prince George's County's diverse natural areas provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Patuxent River Park, with its extensive parklands and tidal marsh systems, is known for sightings of bald eagles and ospreys. Trails around Lake Artemesia and through forested areas also offer chances to observe local birdlife and other small animals.

For cyclists seeking a longer, more challenging ride, Prince George's County offers 20 moderate routes. The Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from College Park is a good example, covering nearly 50 kilometers with a moderate elevation gain. Another option is the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt, which is about 48 kilometers long.