The best road cycling routes around Jessup
4.8
(57)
1,288
riders
113
rides
Road cycling routes around Jessup traverse a landscape characterized by diverse natural features, including forested areas, rivers, and scenic byways. The region offers varied terrain with gentle hills and some more significant climbs, particularly towards areas like Patapsco Valley State Park. This area provides access to an extensive network of paved paths and roads, suitable for various road cycling preferences. Routes often follow waterways and connect to broader trail systems within Maryland.
Best road cycling routes around Jessup
- The mostβ¦
Last updated: June 29, 2026
32
riders
42.0km
01:53
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
26.2km
01:41
140m
140m
The Little Patuxent River β Lake Elkhorn loop from Long Reach offers a moderate 16.3 miles (26.2 km) cycling adventure, typically taking about 1 hour and 41 minutes to completeβ¦
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5.0
(1)
19
riders
14.4km
00:45
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
17
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
46.4km
02:11
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Cycle Mill Bike Shop is a helpful, local bike shop. If you need to pick up anything during your ride, or need something looked at, it is a good choice.
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Nice pedestrian bridge over the Little Patuxent River. It is popular with cyclists and walkers, so make sure you look out for other trail users.
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Lake Elkhorn is the third-largest lake in the county. It is surrounded by woodland and has several paved trails that run along the perimeter of the water.
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The Lake Elkhorn loop trail is a paved trail that circles the lake with the same name. It is an easy trail and traffic free, so it is a great place for a recovery ride.
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The Patapsco Valley was Maryland's first and remains its largest state park. The 14,000 acres (5,700 ha) are made up of forests, winding rivers and cascading waterfalls. It's a great place for hiking, camping, canoeing, horseback riding and mountain biking. Or simply just bring a picnic and relax by the river. Some historical sites are also worth visiting in the park such as the Thomas Viaduct and Orange Grove Flour Mill.
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The Patuxent Branch Trail is a multi-use, paved 10.4-mile trail that follows the Little Patuxent River.
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Ellicott town, captivates cyclists with its charming blend of historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and inviting local shops. The town's scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere create an ideal stop for cyclists seeking a relaxing break, cultural exploration, and the warmth of a friendly community on their journey.
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The Simpsonville Mill is a historical pre-colonial mill complex in the form of stone ruins which are located under the Cedar lane bridge that goes over the Middle Patuxent River. The mill stood at the center of a small milling district in its day and it was an important industrial and commercial contributing factor to the local economy. Thus it was deemed eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Jessup?
Jessup offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides to more challenging excursions through diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Jessup?
Road cycling routes around Jessup feature a mix of forested paths, riverine landscapes, and scenic byways. You'll encounter varied terrain with gentle hills, and some routes, particularly those extending towards areas like Patapsco Valley State Park, include more significant climbs. The region provides access to an extensive network of paved paths and roads.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Jessup?
Yes, Jessup has numerous options for less experienced cyclists and families. Approximately 38 easy road cycling routes are available, often following paved paths and offering gentler gradients. These routes provide a pleasant way to explore the area's natural beauty at a comfortable pace.
Where can I find more challenging road cycling routes near Jessup?
For those seeking a more strenuous ride, Jessup offers several difficult road cycling routes. These often feature greater elevation changes, especially in areas bordering Patapsco Valley State Park. One such route is the Lake Elkhorn β Patapsco Valley State Park loop from Columbia, which includes over 500 meters of elevation gain.
Are there any scenic loop road cycling routes around Jessup?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Jessup are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate loop is the Simpsonville Mill Ruins β Jackson Pond loop from Long Reach, which covers about 33.8 miles and features varied terrain and points of interest.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I might see along road cycling routes?
Many routes in the Jessup area offer glimpses of natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter picturesque lakes such as Lake Elkhorn or Centennial Lake. Some routes also pass by unique features like the Cascade Falls or historic structures like the Old bridge footing near Patapsco Valley State Park.
Are there specific trails or byways known for road cycling near Jessup?
Beyond individual routes, Jessup provides access to several well-known cycling trails and scenic byways. The BWI Trail offers a unique experience encircling the airport, while the B&A Trail provides a paved 13-mile ride between Baltimore and Annapolis. Maryland also boasts 18 scenic byways, totaling over 2,487 miles, which are excellent for road cycling tours through diverse landscapes and historic areas. For more information on Maryland's scenic byways, you can visit visitmaryland.org.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Jessup?
The road cycling experience around Jessup is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's varied terrain, the scenic beauty of its forested paths and riverine landscapes, and the accessibility to a wide network of well-maintained routes.
What is the typical length of road cycling routes in the Jessup area?
Road cycling routes around Jessup vary significantly in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter loops, such as the Lake Elkhorn β Lake Elkhorn loop from Kings Contrivance, which is about 9.9 miles (16 km). Longer routes, like the Little Patuxent River β Lake Elkhorn loop from Savage, can extend to over 21 miles (34.7 km).
Are there any routes that offer views of rivers or lakes?
Absolutely. Many road cycling routes in the Jessup area incorporate views of local waterways. The Little Patuxent River β Lake Elkhorn loop from Long Reach, for instance, offers scenic vistas of both the Little Patuxent River and Lake Elkhorn, providing a refreshing waterside environment for your ride.
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