4.9
(17)
279
riders
21
rides
Touring cycling routes around Barnesville traverse a landscape characterized by rolling terrain and waterways, including aqueducts and historical sites. The area features a mix of open countryside and routes that follow natural features. Elevations on routes typically range from gentle rises to moderate hills, with some longer routes featuring more significant climbs. The region offers varied paths suitable for different cycling preferences.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
riders
29.0km
01:47
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
25.1km
01:32
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
5
riders
41.0km
02:31
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
63
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
riders
107km
08:10
270m
270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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One of my favorite rides! The trail is well maintained and smooth. So many spots to rest and take breathtaking pics
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28 Sept 2025: staircase closed as they rebuild it
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As you ride onto the wide canal bend, you’re met with serene water views—Widewater is a beautiful lake that serves as habitat for many bird and wildlife species. It’s an ideal spot to pause, do some birdwatching, and soak in the calm before continuing your journey along the Potomac and the Chesapeake & Ohio canal.
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Lock 22, aka Pennyfield Lock, was built between 1829 and 1831, and the name came from the misspelling of the Pennifield family name. It has been restored and offers overnight stays to recreate the rustic feeling from that period.
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Lock 21, aka Swains Lock, is a lock house and campsite. It was built in the 1830s and transported items such as grain and coal between Georgetown and Cumberland. It was named after the Swain family and John Swain, who helped build the canal, and Jesse Swain, the lockkeeper. The family lived here until 2006.
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Lock 22, aka Pennyfield Lock, was built between 1829 and 1831, and the name came from the misspelling of the Pennifield family name. It has been restored and offers overnight stays to recreate the rustic feeling from that period.
1
0
Located at mile 14.3 on the C&O Canal Towpath in Potomac, Maryland, Great Falls Park is a must-visit highlight for hikers, cyclists, and history buffs alike. A short boardwalk leads to the Olmsted Island overlook, where the Potomac River dramatically crashes over jagged rocks—one of the most scenic views near D.C. For hikers, the popular Billy Goat Trail offers three segments, with Section A featuring challenging rock scrambles and breathtaking river views. The historic Great Falls Tavern, built in 1829, now serves as a visitor center and launch point for seasonal mule-drawn canal boat rides. The towpath itself is flat and easy to navigate, ideal for walking or biking. Amenities include restrooms, picnic spots, and interpretive exhibits. Parking is available at the visitor center (fee required), or you can park for free at nearby Swains Lock and walk or ride 2.5 miles to the falls.
1
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These are hard to come by along the C&O canal and usually hidden. Always nice to know where to get water.
2
0
There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Barnesville, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The routes around Barnesville cater to various abilities. You'll find 5 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 5 more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Barnesville loop is a popular moderate circular journey, and the Leisure cycling loop from Barnesville also offers a pleasant round trip through the countryside.
While specific family-friendly routes aren't highlighted, the region offers 5 easy routes that could be suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These typically feature gentler rises and less demanding terrain.
For those seeking longer rides, the Monocacy Aqueduct – Catoctin Creek Aqueduct loop from Dickerson is a challenging 66.2-mile (106.5 km) route that takes you through areas featuring aqueducts and historical sites, ideal for an extended day trip.
The area boasts several scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy views from Sugarloaf Mountain, McCormack Overlook, and White Rocks North Viewpoint, offering picturesque vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, touring cycling routes around Barnesville often pass by historical landmarks and natural features. Notable attractions include the impressive Monocacy Aqueduct, Lock 27, Spinks Ferry, and the Giant maple tree sheltering Lock 26. You might also encounter Little Seneca Lake.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 17 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's rolling hills, historical landmarks, and the varied routes alongside waterways, which offer a diverse cycling experience.
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Barnesville, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, while winter may bring colder weather, though routes remain accessible year-round for determined cyclists.
While popular routes like the Barnesville loop can see more traffic, exploring some of the less-traveled paths or cycling during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can provide a more serene experience. Routes that venture further into the countryside, such as the John Poole House – Seneca Schoolhouse loop from Boyds, might offer more solitude.
Parking is generally available at trailheads or designated public parking areas within Barnesville and surrounding towns. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking information, as options can vary.
Public transport options directly to specific trailheads in Barnesville may be limited. Cyclists often drive to starting points or utilize regional bus services that allow bikes, though direct access to rural routes might require planning.
Many routes pass through or near small towns and villages where you can find cafes, general stores, or local eateries for refreshments. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended, especially for longer rides.


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