Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park – Pierce Mill loop from L'Enfant
Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park – Pierce Mill loop from L'Enfant
2.9
(21)
98
riders
Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park – Pierce Mill loop from L'Enfant
03:08
71.0km
460m
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: April 3, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 46.1 km for 124 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
4.57 km
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
7.06 km
Key Bridge Boathouse
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
9.46 km
Potomac Palisades Parkway
Nature Reserve
55.1 km
Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
62.5 km
Pierce Mill
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
71.0 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
42.1 km
22.1 km
4.59 km
1.67 km
367 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
54.7 km
15.8 km
216 m
204 m
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Elevation
Highest point (130 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 2 July
39°C
26°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial road cycling adventure through Washington D.C.'s green heart, the Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park – Pierce Mill loop from L'Enfant is a moderate 44.1-mile (71.0 km) route with 1525 feet (465 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 8 minutes. This route is perfect for cyclists who appreciate a long, scenic ride away from city traffic, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
What to expect on Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park – Pierce Mill loop from L'Enfant
This journey through Rock Creek Park unfolds as a continuous immersion in extensive woodlands, with the winding Rock Creek often by your side. You'll hear the sound of running water and bird songs as you navigate the paved paths, which generally feature a consistent grade for smooth riding. While much of the route is gentle, expect some hilly sections, particularly the multi-use path parallel to Military Road NW, which can be fairly steep. The picturesque scenery includes iconic landmarks like Peirce Mill, a historic 1800s gristmill, and the charming Boulder Bridge, making it a rewarding experience for cyclists seeking both natural beauty and a good workout.
Planning your visit
A significant advantage for road cyclists is that certain sections of Beach Drive are permanently closed to vehicles, providing dedicated recreational space. Be mindful of potential hazards like asphalt breaks caused by roots and slippery conditions from wet leaves, especially after rain. You'll find amenities such as picnic areas, water stations, and restrooms at various points, including near Peirce Mill and Picnic Grove 1. Remember that bicycles are permitted on all paved trails and roads but are prohibited on dirt trails, and speed limits are typically 15 mph on multi-use trails and 25 mph on paved roadways.
Trail details
- Distance: 44.1 miles (71.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 1525 feet (465 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 8 minutes
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