Scenic view loop from Glenelg High School

If you're looking for a solid touring cycling workout with pleasant scenery, the Scenic view loop from Glenelg High School is definitely worth your time. This moderate route covers 27.2 miles (43.8 km) with 1241 feet (378 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for touring cyclists in the Howard County, MD area seeking a moderately challenging ride on paved surfaces.

What to expect on Scenic view loop from Glenelg High School

This route offers a classic Howard County cycling experience, winding through rolling hills, wooded sections, and rural landscapes. The entire trail is on paved surfaces, making it ideal for road bikes and touring cycles. While it's considered moderately hilly with a Tabb Hilly Scale rating of 6.1, the climbs are manageable, including segments like "Gillis Falls West" with a 3.9% grade over 2 kilometers and "Watersville East" with a 5.9% grade over 1.9 kilometers. You'll also enjoy some rewarding descents, making for a varied and engaging ride that suits touring cyclists looking for a good training session or a scenic outing.

Planning your visit

The Glenelg High School area is a popular starting point for cyclists, often serving as the hub for a standard mid-summer evening ride on Tuesdays. Parking is readily available at the high school, making it a convenient trailhead. The route is known for its light traffic overall, especially during these evening rides, which makes it a pleasant experience. For the best conditions and to join the local cycling community, consider heading out on a mid-summer evening.

Trail details

• Distance: 27.2 miles (43.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 1241 feet (378 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 40 minutes