Francis Scott Key Bridge – Rock Creek Trail loop from Cabin John

Francis Scott Key Bridge – Rock Creek Trail loop from Cabin John

Moderate

3.3

(11)

riders

Francis Scott Key Bridge – Rock Creek Trail loop from Cabin John

02:01

33.3km

180m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 13, 2026

Tips

Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route

After 2.89 km for 87 m

After 15.5 km for 68 m

After 17.5 km for 149 m

After 19.1 km for 90 m

After 30.2 km for 87 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

6.98 km

Lock 6, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

Highlight • Monument

One of the locks (#6 of 75) on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. These should ensure the shipping traffic between Cumberland and Washington to transport coal.
The lock keeper's houses …

Translated by Google •

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7.29 km

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

Lake

9.32 km

View of the Potomac River from the Chain Bridge

Highlight • Viewpoint

One of the best way to cross from Virginia over to the D.C./Maryland side: cycling over the Chain Cross Bridge. Offers fabulous views over the rough part of the Potomac, …

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15.1 km

Key Bridge Boathouse

Highlight • Rest Area

Boathouse where canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can be rented. Great way to explore the Potomac shoreline up and down stream.

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15.1 km

Francis Scott Key Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

This is a paved path across the bridge with metal railings separating pedestrians/cyclists from vehicular traffic. It feels safe but it can be a little loud. The views are beautiful.

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17.0 km

C&O Canal Mile 0 and Tide Lock

Highlight • Monument

The final (or beginning) mile of the C&O Canal stands here, next to the Tide Lock on the Potomac, the true birthplace of the canal. The spot is marked with …

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17.3 km

Rock Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Rock Creek Trail is a popular spot for foot traffic. Starting from the parking lot off Virginia Avenue, the paved path follows Rock Creek, passing landmarks like the William Howard …

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17.4 km

View of the Georgetown Waterfront

Highlight • Viewpoint

The cycle path leading here offers magnificent views of the city at any time of the day or night almost along its entire length.

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19.2 km

Potomac River

Highlight • River

The Potomac River, stretching 405 miles from the Potomac Highlands in West Virginia to Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, ranks as the fourth-largest river on the East Coast. Swimming is prohibited in …

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33.3 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types