The best gravel rides around North Chevy Chase

Gravel biking around North Chevy Chase primarily features routes along the C&O Canal Towpath and the Potomac River. The terrain is generally characterized by relatively flat sections along the canal, with some gentle elevation changes as routes extend into broader Montgomery County. While the C&O Canal offers a known gravel option, some riders may find it flat over long distances.

Yes, while many routes are moderate, there are options for more challenging rides. For instance, the Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls – Crossing Over the C&O Canal loop from Bethesda is rated as difficult, covering 45.9 miles (73.8 km) with significant elevation changes.

There are 15 gravel bike trails available around North Chevy Chase. These include 11 moderate routes and 4 more difficult options, offering a range of experiences for different skill levels.

A popular choice is the Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls – Pennyfield Lock loop from Cabin John, a moderate 31.4-mile (50.5 km) path that explores the C&O Canal Towpath and areas around Great Falls, offering varied natural scenery.

Many routes offer views near Great Falls and follow the Potomac River. You can also explore areas like Rock Creek Park, cross the historic Boulder Bridge, or see the Little Falls Dam. The C&O Canal Towpath itself is a US National Historical Park.

While North Chevy Chase itself has local parks for general outdoor enjoyment, the C&O Canal Towpath, which many routes utilize, is generally flat and wide, making sections of it suitable for families. For a moderate ride, consider the Great Falls – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from American University, which is 20.3 miles (32.6 km) and leads through the Potomac River valley.

The routes in North Chevy Chase are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Over 200 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the scenic views along the C&O Canal and Potomac River.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around North Chevy Chase are designed as loops. For example, the Crossing Over the C&O Canal – Potomac River loop from The Clara Barton House offers a 24.1-mile (38.8 km) circular ride.

The C&O Canal Towpath and surrounding areas are generally accessible year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can be warm but provides lush green views. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, especially after snow or heavy rain.

Yes, nearby attractions include the **Woodend Sanctuary**, a 40-acre nature retreat with meadows, mature trees, and forests, perfect for nature lovers. You can also visit Nature Forward, which is headquartered there. For more outdoor ideas, you can explore Visit Montgomery's outdoor section.

For more extensive gravel biking opportunities with varied terrain and dedicated routes, cyclists often venture beyond North Chevy Chase to areas like Frederick County, Maryland, or Loudoun County, Virginia. Michaux State Forest and the Frederick Watershed are also noted for their unmaintained forest roads and gravel trails.