Key Bridge Boathouse – Glen Echo Park loop from East Falls Church
Key Bridge Boathouse – Glen Echo Park loop from East Falls Church
4.6
(6870)
10,454
riders
Key Bridge Boathouse – Glen Echo Park loop from East Falls Church
01:55
39.7km
430m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 31.0 km for 176 m
After 31.9 km for 76 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
8.94 km
Key Bridge Boathouse
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
11.3 km
Potomac Palisades Parkway
Nature Reserve
23.5 km
Glen Echo Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
32.6 km
View of the Potomac River from the Chain Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
39.7 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.8 km
9.19 km
9.06 km
4.48 km
639 m
465 m
103 m
Surfaces
33.8 km
5.29 km
287 m
204 m
155 m
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Elevation
Highest point (130 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 13 July
31°C
18°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that truly earns its 'moderate' difficulty rating while offering incredible variety, the Key Bridge Boathouse – Glen Echo Park loop from East Falls Church is definitely worth your time. This 24.7-mile (39.7 km) ride packs in 1421 feet (433 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 1 hour and 55 minutes, making it a solid challenge for those who enjoy a dynamic ride through diverse landscapes.
What to expect on Key Bridge Boathouse – Glen Echo Park loop from East Falls Church
Starting from East Falls Church, you'll quickly encounter the Custis Trail, known for its challenging, hilly terrain that provides a significant workout, especially heading east. Expect winding turns and a few moderate climbs, culminating in a fairly steep ascent near the Key Bridge Marriott. As you approach the Potomac River, urban views give way to water vistas. From there, you have options towards Glen Echo Park: either the largely flat, unpaved C&O Canal Towpath with its picturesque river views and historic canal, or the paved MacArthur Boulevard with its own significant slopes. This route is ideal for road cyclists who enjoy a mix of challenging climbs and scenic, varied landscapes.
Planning your visit
The starting point in East Falls Church is easily accessible, leveraging the extensive trail network of the D.C. metropolitan area. Public transportation and parking options are available at various points along the connected trails, making it convenient to begin your ride. While the C&O Canal Towpath offers a generally easy ride, be aware that some sections can be rocky, and certain areas might even require carrying your bike. Consider the varying conditions of MacArthur Boulevard's bike path, which can be in disrepair in places.
Trail details
- Distance: 24.7 miles (39.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1421 feet (433 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 55 minutes
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