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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Maryland
Howard County
Columbia

Lake Elkhorn – Lake Elkhorn loop from Columbia

Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Maryland
Howard County
Columbia

Lake Elkhorn – Lake Elkhorn loop from Columbia

Moderate

3.0

(24)

94

riders

Lake Elkhorn – Lake Elkhorn loop from Columbia

02:19

46.4km

550m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: July 9, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that goes up or down a series of steps

You may need to carry your bike.

After 6.25 km for 11 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1

581 m

Lake Elkhorn

Highlight • Lake

Lake Elkhorn is the third-largest lake in the county. It is surrounded by woodland and has several paved trails that run along the perimeter of the water.

Tip by

2

1.08 km

Lake Elkhorn

Highlight • Lake

Lake Elkhorn is a 37-acre reservoir and is Columbia, Maryland's largest lake. There is a paved two-mile path around the lake that was built in 1982.

Tip by

3

6.47 km

Jackson Pond

Highlight • Lake

This serene little pond is tucked out of the way but is well worth a side trip, especially if you have kids. There's a playground, a picnic area and a fishing pier. The woods around the lake are also a great place to spot wild birds, including the likes of the yellow-bellied sapsucker.

Tip by

4

19.0 km

The Grist Mist Trail passes through Patapsco Valley State Park, alongside the Patapsco River. For a large part of the trail, it also passes alongside the railroad.

It is best to walk over the bridge as it is not very wide and there may be pedestrians.

The surface is mostly paved and quite flat so well suited to families and kids.

There are various historic sites of interest alongside the trail, including the famous swinging bridge, which was originally used by mill workers to cross the river.

Tip by

5

23.2 km

The Cycle Mill Bike Shop

Highlight • Rest Area

The Cycle Mill Bike Shop is a helpful, local bike shop. If you need to pick up anything during your ride, or need something looked at, it is a good choice.

Tip by

26.9 km

Oella Homeowners Association Private Open Space

Nature Reserve

7

28.0 km

Ellicott town

Highlight • Settlement

Ellicott town, captivates cyclists with its charming blend of historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and inviting local shops. The town's scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere create an ideal stop for cyclists seeking a relaxing break, cultural exploration, and the warmth of a friendly community on their journey.

Tip by

8

30.6 km

Patapsco Valley State Park

Highlight • Forest

The Patapsco Valley was Maryland's first and remains its largest state park. The 14,000 acres (5,700 ha) are made up of forests, winding rivers and cascading waterfalls.

It's a great place for hiking, camping, canoeing, horseback riding and mountain biking. Or simply just bring a picnic and relax by the river.

Some historical sites are also worth visiting in the park such as the Thomas Viaduct and Orange Grove Flour Mill.

Tip by

B

46.4 km

End point

Bus stop

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

29.4 km

10.0 km

6.48 km

268 m

180 m

110 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

44.4 km

1.60 km

305 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (160 m)

Lowest point (30 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Friday 24 July

28°C

14°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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