The best cycling routes in Patapsco Valley State Park

The Grist Mill and Trolley Line #9 Loop offers a unique touring cycling experience, blending natural beauty with significant historical elements. You'll pedal alongside the Patapsco River, pass through dense woodlands, and marvel at the striking 100-foot-high hand-cut granite bluffs on the Trolley Line #9 Trail. This moderate 15.0-mile (24.2 km) route, with its 710 feet (216 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking varied scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail primarily consists of paved and well-maintained surfaces, suitable for touring bikes. While the trail is generally accessible, be aware that the boardwalk section can be slippery when wet. The Ellicott City end of the trail provides easy access to local shops and restaurants, perfect for a post-ride treat or meal.

What truly sets this route apart is its rich historical context; the Trolley Line #9 Trail follows the path of an electric streetcar line from the late 1890s. Along the way, you can spot historical landmarks like the Bloede Dam and the ruins of the Orange Grove Flour Mill, adding a fascinating layer to your ride. It's a great option if you're looking for popular trails that combine exercise with a journey through time.

The BWI Trail offers a moderate 24.0-mile (38.6 km) touring cycling loop that uniquely encircles an international airport, yet still delivers surprisingly varied and peaceful scenery. You'll pedal through wooded sections, catch glimpses of a horse farm, and enjoy unparalleled views of aircraft from the Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area. With 905 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain, this route takes about 2 hours and 21 minutes, providing a good workout without being overly strenuous.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. Restrooms are available at Andover Park and the Amtrak Station, and the trail connects directly to public transportation via the Linthicum Light Rail Station and the BWI MARC/Amtrak rail station. It's an accessible option for most cyclists, offering a convenient and enjoyable ride.

What truly sets the BWI Trail apart is its distinction as the only trail in the U.S. that completely encircles an international airport, making it a prime spot for plane spotting. It also links to the Baltimore & Annapolis (B&A) Trail, expanding your cycling options, and is part of the developing East Coast Greenway, highlighting its significance in regional trail networks.

The Patapsco Traverse and Grist Mill Trail Loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending smooth, paved sections with more rugged unpaved paths and even some singletrack. This moderate 12.4 miles (20.0 km) route takes you along the Patapsco River, through dense woodlands, and past the iconic Patapsco Swinging Bridge, with 865 feet (264 metres) of elevation gain to keep things interesting. You will encounter varied scenery, from the tranquil waters of Lost Lake to historical mill ruins, making for a journey that feels both natural and steeped in the past.

Plan for a ride that typically takes around 1 hours and 33 minutes, though you might want extra time to explore the historical landmarks. While the Grist Mill Trail portion is flat and accessible, the full loop includes more challenging terrain, so a good level of fitness and some cycling experience are beneficial. Be ready for sections where you might need to dismount and push your bike, especially on unpaved segments. This route is a great option for those seeking a varied cycling adventure within Patapsco Valley State Park.

Beyond the physical challenge, this loop is rich in local history, passing by remnants of old grist mill towns and granite quarries, and featuring connections to the B&O Railroad and even Harriet Tubman. The continuous views of the Patapsco River and the heavily wooded environments provide a beautiful backdrop, offering glimpses of wildlife, particularly around Lost Lake. It is a notable route for its ability to combine well-maintained paths with more natural, engaging sections, providing a comprehensive overview of the park's natural beauty and historical significance.