The best MTB trails around Naval Academy
4.7
(12)
148
riders
6
rides
Mountain biking around Naval Academy offers routes through a landscape characterized by wooded natural areas, gentle rolling terrain, and proximity to waterways like Broad Creek and the Severn River. The region features a network of trails, including those within the Annapolis Waterworks Park and Bacon Ridge Natural Area, providing varied surfaces for mountain bikers. Elevations are generally low, with routes navigating through forests and open spaces typical of the coastal plain.
Best mountain bike trails around Naval Academy
- The most…
Last updated: August 18, 2026
4.6
(5)
48
riders
21.6km
01:51
200m
200m
The Annapolis Waterworks Trail offers an engaging mountain biking experience through a rolling Coastal Plain hardwood forest, featuring diverse terrain and constant changes in direction. You'll navigate tight, root-filled singletrack,…
4.6
(5)
48
riders
21.1km
01:44
190m
190m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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5.0
(2)
15
riders
8.60km
00:43
90m
90m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
8.51km
00:44
70m
70m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
As you make your way along the trail, you will find several old cars! It makes for a fun stop as it looks like they have been here for centuries.
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The 900+ acre Bacon Ridge Natural Area features expansive marshes, mature forests, and Bacon Ridge Branch creek. The area includes a 630-acre section protected by a conservation easement from Scenic Rivers and the Maryland Environmental Trust.
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Waterworks Park is a 600-acre park around Old Annapolis City Reservoir. There are several miles of trails that run through the park. It is a popular spot for hiking, running and mountain biking.
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Built in the 1850s as a water source for Annapolis, the reservoir played a strategic role during the Civil War. Enjoy a mostly paved 4.5-mile loop around the reservoir, offering breathtaking views of the water, rolling hills, and the historic Annapolis skyline in the distance.
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Waterworks Park, a historical and ecologically rich treasure, promises a versatile experience. From serene escapes to family fun, it unveils surprises like waterfalls, stone foundations, and glimpses of grazing deer. The biking trails cater to every taste and skill level.
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In this wonderful locale, you can truly connect with the forest. Here, you'll come across several old, abandoned cars—a unique discovery amidst the natural beauty.
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Broad Creek is on the west side of Constitution Road, approximately 500 feet south of the Pennsylvania state line. The watershed Broad Creek is part of spans an area of 40.6 square miles. The mouth of the creek is at the Conowingo Reservoir, where Broad Creek flows into the Susquehanna River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners near Naval Academy?
Yes, the Naval Academy area offers several easy mountain bike trails. For instance, the Broad Creek – Annapolis Waterworks Trail loop from Anne Arundel County is an easy 5.3-mile (8.6 km) route, and the Waterworks Park loop from Anne Arundel County is another easy option at 5.3 miles (8.5 km).
What are the typical lengths of mountain bike trails around Naval Academy?
Mountain bike trails in the Naval Academy area vary in length. You'll find routes ranging from shorter loops around 5.3 miles (8.5 km) to longer, more challenging rides up to 15.5 miles (25 km).
Where can I find parking and trailheads for mountain biking near Annapolis?
Many trails in the area, such as those within Annapolis Waterworks Park and Bacon Ridge Natural Area, have designated parking areas. For example, the Bacon Ridge Natural Area – Waterworks Park loop often starts from Generals Highway Corridor Park, which typically offers parking facilities.
Are there family-friendly mountain bike trails near Naval Academy?
For families looking for a less strenuous ride, the easier trails are a good choice. The Waterworks Park loop from Anne Arundel County is an easy 5.3-mile (8.5 km) trail that provides a pleasant experience through wooded areas, suitable for riders of varying skill levels within a family.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking around Naval Academy?
The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking around Naval Academy, with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may bring colder weather, though trails are often rideable year-round depending on precipitation.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Naval Academy?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful wooded natural areas, and the proximity to waterways that characterize the rides, particularly within Annapolis Waterworks Park and Bacon Ridge Natural Area.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or interesting landmarks along the mountain bike trails?
While the trails themselves offer natural beauty through wooded areas and along waterways, you can find interesting landmarks nearby. The Maryland State House and Annapolis City Dock are notable attractions in the broader Annapolis area that you might explore before or after your ride.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Naval Academy area?
There are 9 mountain bike trails available in the Naval Academy area, offering a range of options from easy to difficult, catering to different skill levels.
Are there any loop mountain bike routes in the Naval Academy area?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the Naval Academy area are loops. For example, the Annapolis Waterworks Trail is a popular loop, as is the Broad Creek – Waterworks Park loop from Parole.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Naval Academy?
The terrain around Naval Academy is characterized by wooded natural areas, gentle rolling hills, and trails that often run alongside waterways like Broad Creek. You can expect varied surfaces, including dirt paths and some technical sections, particularly on the more difficult routes.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the mountain bike trails for a post-ride refreshment?
While specific cafes directly adjacent to trailheads are limited, the trails are close enough to Annapolis that you can easily find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the city center for refreshments after your ride. Annapolis City Dock, for instance, is a hub for dining options.
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