The best cycling routes around South Laurel
4.6
(49)
404
riders
28
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around South Laurel, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails crisscrossing the area, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, and we've distilled all that local knowledge into a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.
…Last updated: June 4, 2026
4.5
(10)
58
riders
30.8km
01:48
80m
80m
The Lake Artemesia – Northeast Branch Trail loop from Greenbelt offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, winding through diverse scenery. You'll pedal past the serene 38-acre Lake Artemesia,…
5.0
(3)
37
riders
19.7km
01:19
100m
100m
This easy 12.2-mile (19.6 km) touring cycling route, with just 343 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete, offering a delightful…
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4.5
(2)
32
riders
47.8km
02:49
180m
180m
The Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt offers a delightful touring cycling adventure, primarily on smooth, paved surfaces that hug the Northeast Branch of the Anacostia…
7
riders
50.8km
03:13
360m
360m
The Patuxent Branch Trail – Little Patuxent River loop from Laurel offers a scenic touring cycling experience, guiding you through lush wooded areas and tranquil wetlands. You'll ride alongside the…
10
riders
8.34km
00:42
80m
80m
The Little Paint Branch Trail loop from Burtonsville offers a delightful escape into nature, perfect for a relaxed touring cycling experience. You'll pedal through a charming mix of shaded woodlands,…
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Tips from the Community
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It's about 6.4 miles long and often follows along the Little Paint Branch stream, giving you great views of the water and surrounding woods.
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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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I don't "recommend" the bridge itself - it has not improved since the previous comments were made in 2019 and 2021 - but it is a necessary part of an excellent ride along the Anacostia bicycle path. The Bladensburg riverfront park just south of the bridge has good facilities, with restrooms large enough to bring your bike inside for security while you take care of things. But the bridge itself - it's still as bumpy as a rutted trail in the woods, and often with families crossing it, so be careful. The downhill is tempting, but take it slow.
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College Park Airport, founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers, is the world's oldest continually operating airport. From here, there is only a fence and a few lights between you and the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane flying over your head as you walk by.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level for touring cycling routes in South Laurel?
South Laurel offers a good mix of routes suitable for various skill levels. The majority of the 29 touring cycling routes are classified as easy (15 routes), with a significant number of moderate options (10 routes). There are also a few more challenging routes (4 routes) for experienced cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in South Laurel?
Yes, South Laurel is well-suited for family cycling due to its gentle elevation changes and numerous easy routes. A great option is the Little Paint Branch Trail loop from Greencastle Manor, which is an easy 6.7-mile path following the Little Paint Branch through natural surroundings.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in South Laurel?
The touring cycling routes in South Laurel feature a mix of paved and unpaved trails, often following scenic river corridors and connecting local parks. You'll encounter gentle elevation changes, making the area accessible for various cycling abilities, and enjoy natural spaces including lakes and wooded sections.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available in South Laurel?
Many of the touring cycling routes in South Laurel are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt is a 20-mile circular route, and the Little Patuxent River – Lake Elkhorn loop from Savage provides a 12.1-mile loop through riverine landscapes.
What are some interesting places to see or landmarks along the touring cycling routes?
Along the routes, you can explore several points of interest. The Lake Artemesia – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt offers views of Lake Artemesia and passes near College Park Airport. Other notable attractions in the region include the Patuxent Research Refuge and Buddy Attick Lake Park.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in South Laurel?
The touring cycling routes in South Laurel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 55 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic views around lakes and rivers, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt is a moderate 29.8-mile (47.9 km) route that provides a more extended touring experience through the area.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in South Laurel?
While touring cycling is enjoyable year-round, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but shaded sections along river corridors provide relief. Winter cycling is possible, though some unpaved sections might be affected by weather.
Are there any routes that follow specific trails or paths?
Absolutely. Many routes in South Laurel utilize established trails. For instance, the WB&A trail – WB&A Trail loop from Bowie State follows a dedicated path, offering a smooth and consistent riding experience.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the South Laurel area?
There are 29 touring cycling routes documented in the South Laurel area, providing a wide range of options for cyclists of all abilities.
Are there any routes that pass by significant natural areas or refuges?
Yes, several routes offer access to natural spaces. The region is characterized by its proximity to areas like the Patuxent Research Refuge, providing opportunities to cycle through wooded sections and enjoy local wildlife.
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