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The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail – BWI Trail loop from Annapolis offers a unique road cycling experience, blending suburban charm with airport-side views. You'll pedal through serene wooded sections and past the educational Planet Walk on the B&A Trail, then transition to the BWI Trail where you can spot planes from observation areas and enjoy stretches of green space and even a horse farm. This moderate 49.4-mile (79.5 km) route, with 1226 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 37 minutes, providing a good workout for cyclists who enjoy varied scenery.

To make the most of your ride, plan to start early, especially on weekends, as these trails can get quite busy. Parking is available in Annapolis, and the BWI Trail also offers public transport access via the BWI Rail Station. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas at the Ranger Station in Severna Park and at Andover Park, with plenty of spots to refuel in towns along the way.

This combined loop is notable for being part of the East Coast Greenway and the American Discovery Trail, highlighting its significance in national trail networks. The B&A Trail also features an "alphabet of history" with markers detailing local heritage, while the BWI Trail is unique for fully encircling an international airport. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a moderate road cycling challenge with interesting historical and modern features.

The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail – Tom Dixon Observation Area loop from Saint Denis offers a diverse road cycling adventure, blending the smooth, paved surface of a former rail line with suburban stretches and unique viewpoints. You will pedal through quiet wooded areas and residential neighborhoods, eventually reaching the Tom Dixon Observation Area where you can watch planes at BWI Airport. This route provides a good mix of scenery, from natural settings to historical markers, making it more engaging than a simple out-and-back.

For planning your ride, you will find convenient parking at locations like the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station or directly at the Tom Dixon Observation Area, both equipped with restrooms and bike racks. This moderate 46.2-mile (74.3 km) loop, with 1178 feet (359 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes. It is best suited for cyclists with good fitness who are comfortable with longer distances and some rolling terrain.

This trail is notable for its history as a rail-to-trail conversion, preserving a piece of the old Baltimore & Annapolis Railroad. It is also a significant part of both the East Coast Greenway and the American Discovery Trail, connecting you to a larger network of routes. Along the way, you can explore historical markers and even a "Planet Walk" near Harundale Mall, adding an educational twist to your ride.