The best road cycling routes around College Park
4.6
(51)
1,591
riders
19
rides
If you’ve ever tried to plan road cycling around College Park, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many interconnected trails and routes, it’s tough to figure out which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it — you want the good stuff, not endless guesswork.
That’s where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, allowing us to cut through the noise. This guide is your curated shortlist, designed to save your legs from anything less than fantastic and point you straight to the rides that deliver.
Road cycling in College Park is all about exploring an extensive network of predominantly paved trails that weave through diverse natural settings. Expect gentle rolling hills, tree-lined streets, and scenic stretches alongside creeks, through forests, and around beautiful spots like Lake Artemesia. The terrain generally features minimal elevation changes, making it accessible, though some longer routes do offer moderate climbs for those looking for more of a challenge. The Anacostia Tributary Trail System forms the backbone, connecting many of these fantastic areas.
If you only do one ride, we’d start with the Patuxent Research Refuge – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park–University of Maryland. At 28.4 miles (45.7 km), it’s an easy ride that gives you a wonderful taste of the region’s natural beauty, combining two of its most prominent features. For those ready for a longer day in the saddle, the Patuxent Research Refuge – Buddy Attic Lake Park loop from Greenbelt offers a moderate 46.2 miles (74.4 km) with more climbing, perfect for stretching your legs. Ready to explore? Dive into these routes and discover why more than 1,400 road cyclists have already found their favorites here with komoot.
Last updated: June 2, 2026
62
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
47
riders
74.4km
03:10
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(4)
206
riders
64.9km
02:50
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
109km
04:47
830m
830m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
23.9km
01:01
120m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
This site is famous for a very important and unfortunate event in American history: the Battle of Bladensburg during the War of 1812. You can learn about the battle, see historical markers, and understand how this event shaped the nation.
0
0
It’s really a skateboard track, but I was really tempted to test it with my bike
1
0
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail follows along the Anacostia River from Bladensburg to the Navy Yard, covering 21.5 miles through forests, fields, marshes, and river ecosystems. Ideal for walking, jogging, biking, or dog walking, the paved trail offers scenic views of the Anacostia River and its wildlife. It passes through Anacostia Park and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and connects to five bridges and several city bike routes. The trail features asphalt, boardwalk, brick, and concrete surfaces, with access points at Hyattsville, MD, and The Wharf in D.C.
0
0
This beautiful pond offers a peaceful escape amidst the bustling city. Also serves as a valuable educational resource for local schools, offering opportunities to learn about local ecology and the importance of urban green spaces. Keep an eye out for the two sculptures nestled amidst the greenery – “Frog Family” and “Great Blue Heron” – adding a touch of artistic whimsy to the natural setting.
0
0
Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
1
0
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is a non-stop 20-mile-long trail that is on both sides of the Anacostia River. The trail is 10-12 feet wide and is open to cyclists, runners, skaters, and walkers.
0
0
Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
0
0
Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in College Park?
College Park offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 70 options available. These routes are predominantly on paved surfaces and integrate seamlessly into the extensive Anacostia Tributary Trail System.
What is the general terrain like for road cycling in College Park?
The terrain in College Park is generally characterized by minimal elevation changes, making many routes suitable for various fitness levels. You'll find predominantly paved trails, often alongside creeks, through forests, and around natural areas like Lake Artemesia. Some longer routes may feature moderate climbs, with elevation gains up to around 1500 feet.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling in College Park?
Many cyclists choose to ride in June and July, taking advantage of the warmer weather. However, the interconnected trail system makes College Park enjoyable for road cycling throughout the spring, summer, and fall, offering pleasant conditions for exploring the natural landscapes.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, College Park has numerous easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt is an easy 16.8-mile ride. The Patuxent Research Refuge loop from College Park–University of Maryland also offers an easy 27.9-mile ride through natural landscapes.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes in College Park?
While many routes are easy, College Park also offers moderate options for those seeking a longer ride. The Patuxent Research Refuge – Patuxent Research Refuge loop from Greenbelt is a moderate 46.4-mile path, providing a more extended experience through the Patuxent Research Refuge area with some elevation gain.
What kind of natural features or scenic viewpoints can I expect on these routes?
Road cycling routes in College Park often pass through lush forests and alongside creeks, offering scenic views. A highlight is the Lake Artemesia Natural Area, which features a 38-acre lake and mixed deciduous forest, perfect for birdwatching. You might also encounter the Rock Creek Park or the historic Boulder Bridge on some routes.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. The Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt, for example, leads past the historic College Park Airport, the world's oldest continuously operating airport. You can also find highlights like Peirce Mill and the scenic Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park.
Are there loop road cycling routes available in College Park?
Many of the road cycling routes in College Park are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Melrose Park Pump Track – Sligo Creek Trail loop from College Park–University of Maryland and the Patuxent Research Refuge loop from College Park–University of Maryland.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in College Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 44 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of interconnected, paved trails, the diverse natural features, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from easy loops to moderate rides.
Can I access these routes using public transport, or is parking available?
College Park is well-integrated into the regional transport network. Many trails, such as those within the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, are accessible from various points, including near public transport hubs. For specific parking information or public transport connections, you can check the official College Park city website at collegeparkmd.gov.
Are there any dog-friendly sections or parks near the cycling routes?
While specific rules for dogs on cycling trails can vary, College Park does offer dog-friendly amenities. Acredale Community Park, for example, features a dedicated dog park. It's always best to check local regulations for specific trails regarding pets.
Where can I find more information about trails and attractions in College Park?
For additional details on trails and attractions within College Park, you can visit the city's official website at collegeparkmd.gov. You can also explore the broader Maryland cycling scene on visitmaryland.org.
Most popular routes around College Park
Most popular attractions around College Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
