The best traffic-free bike rides around College Park

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around College Park, offering a variety of distances and experiences. Seven of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for most cyclists.

The no-traffic touring routes in College Park vary in length. For example, the Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from College Park–University of Maryland is about 17.3 km (10.7 miles), while longer options like the Audi Field – Anacostia Riverwalk Trail loop from College Park extend to approximately 42.5 km (26.4 miles).

Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families due to the gentle elevation changes and paved paths. The trails around Lake Artemesia are particularly popular, offering a scenic and safe environment. Routes like the Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt are rated as easy and provide a pleasant experience for all ages.

The routes primarily wind through mixed deciduous forests and along stream valleys, offering refreshing natural views. You'll often find paved paths alongside streams and through natural areas, with highlights like Lake Artemesia and views of the historic College Park Airport. The Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which many routes utilize, is known for its picturesque environment.

Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. You can cycle past the historic College Park Airport, the world's oldest continuously operating airport. Many trails also connect to Lake Artemesia, a 38-acre lake with aquatic gardens, popular for birdwatching. For more natural beauty, you might encounter areas like Rock Creek Park or the Boulder Bridge.

Spring and fall are generally ideal for touring cycling in College Park, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. The mixed deciduous forests provide shade in warmer months, making summer cycling enjoyable as well. Winter can be ridden, but check trail conditions for ice or snow.

College Park is well-connected by public transport, including Metro and local bus services, making it feasible to access many trailheads. The city is a hub within the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which is designed for accessibility. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient access points to specific routes.

Parking is available at various access points to the trail system. Many parks and community centers along the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, such as those near Lake Artemesia or the College Park Airport, offer designated parking areas for trail users. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for the route you plan to ride.

Yes, the extensive Anacostia Tributary Trail System allows for longer touring experiences that can extend into Washington D.C. The Audi Field – Anacostia Riverwalk Trail loop from College Park is an example of a route that connects College Park directly to D.C., offering opportunities to explore urban attractions as part of your ride.

The no-traffic touring routes in College Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 65 reviews. Reviewers often praise the interconnected trail systems, the peaceful natural environment, and the gentle terrain that makes for an enjoyable and accessible cycling experience.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in College Park are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt and the Bladensburg Waterfront Park loop from College Park, which offer convenient round trips.