4.5
(29)
347
riders
27
rides
Mountain biking around Redland features a landscape characterized by rolling terrain, often alongside waterways such as Lake Needwood and Rock Creek. The region includes a mix of wooded areas and open parkland, providing varied surfaces for mountain bike trails. Elevations are generally moderate, with gradual climbs and descents.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.6
(7)
49
riders
31.6km
02:25
170m
170m
The Needwood Loop offers a moderate mountain biking experience, covering 19.6 miles (31.6 km) with 559 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in…
4.6
(5)
15
riders
28.9km
02:09
210m
210m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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7
riders
37.2km
02:37
250m
250m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
33.0km
01:54
210m
210m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
64.0km
04:46
440m
440m
Embark on a scenic mountain biking adventure along the historic C&O Canal towpath with the Pennyfield Lock – Swains Lock loop from Rockville. This moderate 39.8-mile (64.0 km) route guides…
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Lake Needwood provides a peaceful escape with its calm waters and surrounding trails nestled in the heart of Maryland. It’s a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and picnics, offering a natural retreat close to the city.
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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.
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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.
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The 455-acre Agricultural History Farm Park celebrates Montgomery County's rich farming heritage. The park features 5 miles of trails that will take you around to various barns, historic buildings, and a modern farming activity center.
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The Upper Rock Creek Trail winds through a densely wooded area with lots of shade. This is a muti-use trail so expect to see a few mountain bikers on your hike. Also, it will be muddy after a rain so either wait for things to dry out or wear some good boots if you're visiting after a storm. As the name suggests, this is just the upper portion of the trail, and it continues 16 miles southward to the D.C. city limit.
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This is a very picturesque area, with the bridge, the creek, and the house up the hill beyond the field.
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Redland offers over 30 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and a few more challenging options.
Yes, Redland has 17 easy mountain bike trails, making it a great destination for beginners and families. These routes typically feature rolling terrain and are often found alongside waterways or through parkland, providing a pleasant and accessible riding experience.
The mountain bike trails in Redland feature rolling terrain, often alongside waterways like Lake Needwood and Rock Creek. You'll encounter a mix of wooded areas and open parkland, with generally moderate elevations, offering gradual climbs and descents.
For those looking for a longer ride, the Pennyfield Lock – Locust Grove Nature Center loop from Rockville is a moderate 39-mile (62.9 km) route. Another substantial option is the Lake Needwood Southeast Shore – Meadowbrook Stables loop from Gaithersburg, which covers 39.3 miles (63.2 km).
The mountain bike trails in Redland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders often praise the varied scenery, the well-maintained paths through wooded sections and open spaces, and the enjoyable routes around lakes and creeks.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Redland are circular. For example, the popular Needwood Loop is a 19.6-mile (31.6 km) circular trail. Another option is the Lake Needwood – Upper Rock Creek Local Park loop from Shady Grove, which also forms a loop.
While riding in Redland, you can explore several interesting spots. The trails often pass by the Lake Needwood Southeast Shore and sections of the Rock Creek Trail. You might also encounter parts of the Intercounty Connector Trail – Norbeck Section.
Many trails in Redland offer scenic views, particularly those that follow the contours of Lake Needwood and Rock Creek. The mix of wooded areas and open parkland provides diverse vistas throughout your ride.
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in Redland, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential for icy or muddy trails.
While most trails in Redland are easy to moderate, there is one difficult mountain bike route available for experienced riders seeking a greater challenge. These routes typically feature more technical sections and steeper climbs.
Among the most popular trails are the Needwood Loop and the Lake Needwood – Rock Creek Trail loop from Washington Grove. These routes are highly favored by the local mountain biking community for their balanced ride and varied scenery.


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