Hains Point – Rock Creek Trail loop from Franconia–Springfield
Hains Point – Rock Creek Trail loop from Franconia–Springfield
3.1
(21)
56
riders
Hains Point – Rock Creek Trail loop from Franconia–Springfield
04:42
105km
490m
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: March 27, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 65.8 km for 65 m
After 70.5 km for 204 m
After 97.2 km for 115 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
13.7 km
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
18.4 km
Fort Hunt Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
37.9 km
Plane Spotting at Gravelly Point Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
43.8 km
Hains Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
48.0 km
Ash Woods
Forest
64.3 km
Key Bridge Boathouse
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
66.0 km
C&O Canal Mile Marker 0
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
66.4 km
Rock Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
67.6 km
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
105 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
67.3 km
23.5 km
7.31 km
4.75 km
2.05 km
352 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
80.1 km
21.7 km
2.54 km
542 m
301 m
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Elevation
Highest point (70 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 22 June
33°C
21°C
88 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 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 one of the most popular road cycling routes in the Franconia–Springfield area that truly delivers a diverse experience, the Hains Point – Rock Creek Trail loop is an excellent choice. This moderate 65.3-mile (105.1 km) ride, with 1609 feet (490 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 42 minutes to complete, making it ideal for cyclists with good fitness seeking a substantial and varied day out.
What to expect on Hains Point – Rock Creek Trail loop from Franconia–Springfield
This route is a journey through contrasting landscapes, starting from Franconia–Springfield and transitioning from suburban roads to iconic urban vistas and serene parklands. You'll experience the flat, fast sections of Hains Point, offering panoramic views of the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, with the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial gracing the skyline, and even planes taking off from DCA. As you head into Rock Creek Park, the scenery shifts to extensive woodlands, tranquil lake shores, and the winding Rock Creek, where you can enjoy the sounds of running water and birdsong. While Hains Point is largely flat, Rock Creek Park introduces gentle hills and some steeper sections on its multi-use trails, requiring consistent effort. This ride suits those who appreciate a blend of city landmarks and natural beauty, and who are prepared for a longer, moderately challenging day in the saddle.
Planning your visit
Be aware that some multi-use paths within Rock Creek Park can have asphalt breaks from tree roots, and fallen leaves in autumn can create slick surfaces, so ride with caution. Portions of Beach Drive in Rock Creek Park are closed to vehicular traffic on weekends and holidays, offering a fantastic car-free cycling experience during those times. Cyclists should also be mindful that multi-use paths are shared with pedestrians and other users, requiring respectful sharing of the space.
Trail details
- Distance: 65.3 miles (105.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 1609 feet (490 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 42 minutes
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