The best cycling routes around Scaggsville

There are nearly 50 touring cycling routes around Scaggsville, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 22 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging rides.

Scaggsville's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, including picturesque river valleys along the Middle and Little Patuxent Rivers, bucolic countryside with rolling hills, and forested areas. Many routes utilize paved trails, while others offer a more natural surface experience.

Yes, Scaggsville offers several family-friendly touring cycling routes, particularly those that are rated easy. An excellent option is the Little Patuxent River – Lake Elkhorn loop from Savage, which is 19.5 km long and follows river valleys, passing by Lake Elkhorn. Another easy choice is the Lake Elkhorn – Lake Elkhorn loop from Columbia, a shorter 11.1 km ride perfect for a leisurely family outing.

Cyclists can explore several historical points of interest. The **Simpsonville Mill Ruins**, a pre-colonial mill complex, are located under the Cedar Lane bridge near the Middle Patuxent River. Additionally, the historic **Bollman Truss Bridge** in nearby Savage, a National Historic Landmark, offers excellent views and is a notable sight for cyclists. You can also find the Old bridge footing along some routes.

Many touring cycling routes in Scaggsville are designed as loops. For example, the Little Patuxent River – Patuxent Branch Trail loop from Columbia is a 17.5 km trail through forested areas. Another option is the Little Patuxent River – Lake Elkhorn loop from Savage, which offers a scenic 19.5 km ride.

The touring cycling routes around Scaggsville are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil river valleys to rolling hills, and the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical sites.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Patuxent Branch Trail – Little Patuxent River loop from Laurel is a moderate 49.9 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a more extended touring experience through diverse landscapes.

The routes often follow the Middle Patuxent River and the Little Patuxent River, providing picturesque views of waterways. You'll also encounter mature hardwood forests, especially along trails like the Patuxent Branch Trail, and pass by beautiful lakes such as Lake Elkhorn and Centennial Lake.

Yes, Savage Park is a convenient starting point for the Patuxent Branch Trail, which leads into wooded areas towards the Middle Patuxent River. The Gorman Stream Valley Natural Resource Area and Sweet Hours Park also feature trails running close to riverbanks, offering pleasant cycling environments.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Scaggsville, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, especially on routes that follow river valleys, providing some natural cooling. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder weather.

Many parks and trailheads in the Scaggsville area, such as Savage Park, offer designated parking facilities for cyclists. Specific parking information is often available on individual route pages on komoot or local park websites. Efforts are also underway to improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities on Old Scaggsville Road, which may include enhanced access points.

Certainly. The Maroon Route is a moderate 25.4 km trail that takes about 1 hour 35 minutes to complete, featuring varied terrain through the local countryside. Another moderate option is the longer Patuxent Branch Trail – Little Patuxent River loop from Laurel, which is 49.9 km.