The best traffic-free bike rides in Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area
4.7
(30)
212
riders
20
rides
Touring cycling in Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area features routes through wooded floodplain forests and upland deciduous forests. The terrain includes rolling hills and paths often running alongside the Patapsco River. These no traffic touring cycling routes provide diverse experiences, from smooth singletrack to more challenging sections. The area is characterized by its natural features and historical remnants of a mill community.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area
- The most popular no…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area
Tips from the Community
Camel’s Den Cave is a small, shallow shelter cave nestled in the Daniels Area of Patapsco Valley State Park. It's a slight detour off Daniels Singletrack and you will need to carry your bike down a couple of steps.
0
0
Daniels Dam is a nice small dam along the Patapsco River. You get a good view from the parking lot, so it is worth pulling in for a short break.
0
0
Peaceful Pond is located in the Hollofield Area of Patapsco Valley State Park. It's encircled by a short trail that connects to the rest of the park's trail system.
1
0
This section of the State Park has a few different bike trails to choose from. The Rockhaven Trail is one of the easier trails while Jane and and Roxy (The Rocks) trails will give you plenty of challenges.
1
0
The lake is small and fully encircled by the trail. The wall of the quarry stands high on the far side from the viewpoint. In the summer the vegetation crowding the water makes it feel like quite the lush watering hole.
0
0
The trail is marked with white blazes and runs along the scenic Patapsco River. The trail is moderately technical with some roots and rocks and in most places has room enough to pass.
0
0
As part of the Patapsco Valley State Park, the Woodstock Area is characterized by its scenic woodlands and riverbanks along the trails. While exploring the area you can enjoy a peaceful retreat.
0
0
Ellicott town, captivates cyclists with its charming blend of historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and inviting local shops. The town's scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere create an ideal stop for cyclists seeking a relaxing break, cultural exploration, and the warmth of a friendly community on their journey.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area?
There are 20 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to suit various skill levels.
What types of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The Daniels Area features largely undeveloped, wooded floodplain forests along the Patapsco River and upland deciduous forests on steep hillsides. You can expect rolling, wooded terrain with smooth singletrack sections and scenic river views. While the Daniels Area itself is less developed, it connects to other parts of Patapsco Valley State Park, offering diverse landscapes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are 8 easy routes perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Pickall Trailhead loop from Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area, which is just over 7.6 km long and features minimal elevation gain.
What historical attractions can I see along the routes?
The Daniels Area is rich in history, with remnants of a once-thriving mill community visible along the trails. You can catch glimpses of this past as you follow the Patapsco River, which once powered local industries. A prominent historical feature is the Daniels Dam. While many original structures were lost to floods, reminders of this heritage are scattered throughout the area.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, for those looking for a longer adventure, there are 9 moderate and 3 difficult routes. A moderate option that offers a significant distance is the Lost Lake – Patapsco Valley State Park loop from Ellicott City, spanning over 46 km.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area?
The Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, natural environment, the scenic river views, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic.
Can I find routes that offer views of the Patapsco River?
Absolutely. Many routes in the Daniels Area run alongside the Patapsco River, offering picturesque views. Consider the Views of Patapsco River loop from Howard County Conservancy at Mt. Pleasant for a moderate ride that highlights the river's beauty.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Daniels Area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Old Quarry Lake – Patapsco River loop from Patapsco Valley State Park, which is an easy 10 km ride.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Daniels Area?
The park's diverse terrain, including forested climbs and flowy ridges, makes it enjoyable across seasons. Late fall and winter can offer particularly scenic views, especially of areas like Liberty Lake in the broader park. Spring and early summer provide lush greenery, while autumn brings vibrant foliage.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or other water features?
Yes, some routes incorporate views of lakes or follow river paths. For instance, the Lake Elkhorn – Little Patuxent River loop from Frederick Village is a moderate route that includes a lake and river section, though it starts a bit further afield from the immediate Daniels Area.
What are the typical surface conditions for no-traffic touring cycling routes in this area?
Given the focus on 'no traffic' and the natural setting, you can expect a mix of smooth singletrack, gravel paths, and potentially some less developed sections. The Daniels Area is known for its rolling, wooded terrain, so be prepared for varied surfaces suitable for touring bicycles.
Most popular routes in Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
