Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – Rock Creek Trail loop from Wheaton
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – Rock Creek Trail loop from Wheaton
4.7
(6896)
15,685
riders
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – Rock Creek Trail loop from Wheaton
02:56
62.1km
310m
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: March 30, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 38.7 km for 65 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
12.8 km
Sligo Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
19.2 km
Bladensburg Waterfront — Anacostia River
Highlight (Segment) • River
Tip by
22.0 km
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
27.5 km
Anacostia Riverwalk Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
30.1 km
View of Nationals Park and the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
38.0 km
Rock Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
38.5 km
C&O Canal Mile Marker 0
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
40.2 km
Key Bridge Boathouse
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
56.3 km
Rock Creek
Lake
62.1 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
41.5 km
8.97 km
7.05 km
2.67 km
1.02 km
980 m
Surfaces
52.0 km
6.75 km
1.78 km
848 m
807 m
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Elevation
Highest point (140 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
31°C
21°C
42 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 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 challenging yet incredibly rewarding road cycling experience that showcases the best of the DC area's trail network, the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – Rock Creek Trail loop from Wheaton is definitely worth your time. This moderate 38.6-mile (62.1 km) route packs in 1017 feet (310 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for cyclists with good fitness who want to explore a diverse landscape and connect some of the region's most popular routes.
What to expect on Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – Rock Creek Trail loop from Wheaton
This loop takes you on a journey through varied terrain and scenery, starting with the peaceful, shaded paths of the Sligo Creek Trail. As you transition to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, you'll find a blend of urban and natural views, passing marshlands and offering glimpses of the Washington, D.C. skyline, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and the impressive Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge. The Rock Creek Trail then brings you into a wooded oasis, following the meandering Rock Creek, with landmarks like the William Howard Taft Bridge. While mostly paved, expect varied grades, including some steep sections on the Rock Creek Trail, so good fitness is key for this moderate ride.
Planning your visit
Starting from Wheaton, you'll typically begin by connecting to the Sligo Creek Trail. A major highlight for road cyclists is the weekend closure of Beach Drive within Rock Creek Park to vehicular traffic, offering a unique, traffic-free riding experience. While the main trails are paved, be aware that connecting sections, especially in urban areas, might involve short road segments or shared paths. Careful route selection ensures a predominantly paved ride suitable for road bikes, making it a great option for those looking for the best time to cycle Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.
Trail details
- Distance: 38.6 miles (62.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 1017 feet (310 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 55 minutes
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