The best cycling routes around Timonium

The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, also known as the NCR Trail, offers a fantastic touring cycling experience through northern Maryland. This moderate 26.1-mile (41.9 km) route, with a gentle 1330 feet (405 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete. You'll ride on a well-maintained crushed stone surface, passing through scenic river valleys alongside the Big Gunpowder Falls, with a pleasant mix of open and wooded sections. The restored Monkton Train Station is a notable stop, providing a glimpse into the trail's historical significance.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at various trailheads and amenities like restrooms and water fountains spaced along the route. It's suitable for year-round use, though heavy snow or ice can make it impassable. Be mindful that resurfacing work is scheduled through early 2026, which might cause localized closures, especially on weekdays.

This trail follows the corridor of the former Northern Central Railway, a vital transportation link during the Civil War, even carrying President Abraham Lincoln's funeral train. Its historical context, combined with its accessibility and connection to Pennsylvania's Heritage Rail Trail County Park, makes it a popular choice for cyclists seeking both recreation and a touch of history.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride around the Loch Raven Reservoir, where you will enjoy expansive water vistas throughout your journey. This 16.2-mile (26.1 km) loop offers a pleasant experience, featuring 1046 feet (319 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete the route in about 1 hour and 39 minutes, cycling past lush greenery and the shimmering surface of the reservoir itself. Keep an eye out for various birds and wildlife that frequent the water's edge, adding to the natural charm of your ride.

For a more serene cycling experience, plan your visit for the weekend. During these times, a 1.7-mile section of Loch Raven Drive is closed to cars, providing a car-free environment with excellent views of the water. The route is easily accessible if you are coming from Towson or Baltimore, making it a convenient escape into nature. Parking is available at various points around the reservoir, so you can choose your starting location.

The Loch Raven Reservoir loop is notable for its rich natural environment, spanning 1,600 acres of water and surrounding woodlands. You might spot diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer and Canada geese, alongside various bird species like ravens, cardinals, and even bald eagles. This trail offers a refreshing outdoor activity close to urban areas, providing a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty for your touring bicycle adventure.

If you're seeking a rigorous touring bicycle adventure, the Dulaney Valley loop delivers a challenging experience with diverse terrain and rewarding scenery. This 43.5-mile (69.9 km) route features a mix of paved roads, unpaved fire trails, and technical singletrack, especially as you navigate around the scenic Loch Raven Reservoir. Expect significant elevation changes, with 2633 feet (802 metres) of climbing, and be prepared for steep sections that might require pushing your bike. The ride offers picturesque views along ridges and through greener, park-like environments, making it one of the best cycling loops near Dulaney Valley for experienced riders.

Planning your visit requires preparation for the route's demanding nature, which is rated difficult and takes approximately 4 hours and 24 minutes to complete. While the trail system is extensive, offering many options, some sections on Dulaney Valley Road can have blind curves and moderate traffic, so stay alert. There are no specific parking instructions provided, so consider starting from a convenient public access point near the loop. This route is explicitly not for beginners and demands very good fitness.

What makes this loop stand out among Dulaney Valley cycling routes is its unique blend of natural beauty and rigorous terrain, distinguishing it from simpler rides in the region. It serves as a popular alternative to other Baltimore bike trails, appreciated for its challenging climbs and technical sections. Many side trails lead down to the Loch Raven Reservoir, offering additional scenic viewpoints and opportunities to extend your exploration.

The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through scenic river valleys and alongside the Big Gunpowder Falls. You'll ride on a well-maintained crushed stone path, shaded by lush trees, making for a comfortable journey. The route passes through Gunpowder Falls State Park, providing abundant natural beauty and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and wildflowers. The historic 1898 Monkton Train Station is a charming landmark and a perfect spot to pause and explore.

Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward. The trail's crushed stone surface drains well, making it rideable most of the year, and the ample shade is a bonus on warm days. The Monkton Train Station provides restrooms, a cafe, and bike rentals, making it an ideal turnaround point for this loop. You'll find various amenities like drinking fountains and picnic tables along the way, ensuring a pleasant outing.

This moderate 20.3-mile (32.7 km) loop from Hunt Valley, with a gentle 642 feet (196 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's part of the larger East Coast Greenway and follows the historic Northern Central Railway corridor, once used by Abraham Lincoln. The trail's easy terrain makes it family-friendly and an excellent choice for beginner touring cyclists looking for circular cycling trails in Baltimore County.