Tom Dixon Observation Area – Propel by James Vose loop from BWI Airport
Tom Dixon Observation Area – Propel by James Vose loop from BWI Airport
4.6
(6229)
10,984
riders
Tom Dixon Observation Area – Propel by James Vose loop from BWI Airport
01:05
18.7km
90m
Cycling
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
8.79 km
Tom Dixon Observation Area
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.17 km
View of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.77 km
BWI Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
16.3 km
View of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
16.3 km
Propel by James Vose
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
18.7 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.6 km
1.63 km
1.40 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
13.6 km
5.08 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
23°C
18°C
96 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 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 unique touring cycling experience that combines green spaces with aviation thrills, the Tom Dixon Observation Area – Propel by James Vose loop from BWI Airport is an excellent choice. This easy 11.6-mile (18.7 km) route, with 309 feet (94 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, engaging ride. It's a great option for beginner touring cycling in Maryland or anyone wanting a relaxed spin with interesting views, offering a manageable BWI Trail difficulty level.
What to expect on Tom Dixon Observation Area – Propel by James Vose loop from BWI Airport
This loop offers a surprisingly diverse journey, considering its airport setting. You'll cycle through stretches of greenery and wooded areas, even passing a horse farm, all while enjoying the smooth, paved surface of the BWI Trail. A major highlight is the Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area, where you can pause to watch planes take off and land, especially when runway 15R/33L is active. While generally easy rolling terrain, be aware that some sections present gradual hills, with a maximum grade of about 10-17%. If you're new to cycling or getting back into it, you might find a few of these climbs demanding, particularly if you choose to ride the BWI Airport cycling loop difficulty in a clockwise direction, which tends to be more challenging.
Planning your visit
The Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area is a popular starting point for this route, offering ample parking for cycling. You'll find amenities like restrooms and bike racks here, as well as at the Amtrak station, which also provides public transport to BWI Trail access. The trail is open from dawn to dusk, so you have plenty of flexibility for your ride. No permits are required, making it an easy-to-access option for a spontaneous outing.
Trail details
- Distance: 11.6 miles (18.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 309 feet (94 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 5 minutes
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