Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Virginia
Fredericksburg

Rappahannock River – Canal Path loop from Fredericksburg

Routes
Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Virginia
Fredericksburg

Rappahannock River – Canal Path loop from Fredericksburg

Easy

4.9

(4089)

5,341

riders

Rappahannock River – Canal Path loop from Fredericksburg

01:19

22.1km

120m

Cycling

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 16, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1

2.60 km

Rappahannock River

Highlight • River

The Rappahannock River is about 314 km long. It has its source in the Blue Ridge Mountains and flows into the Chesapeake Bay.

Tip by

2

4.90 km

Canal Path

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Canal Path in Fredericksburg is part of a 3.4-mile paved loop in conjunction with the 1.6-mile Rappahannock River Heritage Trail. The Canal Path portion is 1.8 miles and follows the Old VEPCO Canal.

Tip by

3

10.3 km

Fredericksburg Battlefield

Highlight • Historical Site

The fighting that took place here during the Civil War led to a defeat for the US army.

Today, the park is much more peaceful, with plenty of trails to explore. You can find some interesting historic routes here: nps.gov/frsp/planyourvisit/fredericksburgbattlefield.htm

Tip by

4

15.8 km

Canal Path

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Canal Path in Fredericksburg is part of a 3.4-mile paved loop in conjunction with the 1.6-mile Rappahannock River Heritage Trail. The Canal Path portion is 1.8 miles and follows the Old VEPCO Canal.

Tip by

5

21.8 km

Market square

Highlight • Settlement

A lovely secluded market square off of the main roads of the town. Perfect for taking a break on one of the benches.

The Fredericksburg Museum is also in the …

Tip by

B

22.1 km

End point

Bus stop

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

12.3 km

5.21 km

2.41 km

1.99 km

212 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

16.8 km

5.15 km

219 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Friday 26 June

34°C

20°C

47 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

guide_signup

Want to know more?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

Sign up for free

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Description

If you're looking for an easy, scenic touring cycling route in Fredericksburg that delivers on both natural beauty and local history, the Rappahannock River – Canal Path loop from Fredericksburg is definitely worth your time. This easy 13.7-mile (22.1 km) ride, with a minimal 386 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 18 minutes, making it perfect for novice bikers, families, or anyone seeking a relaxed outing on two wheels. It’s one of the best bike trails Fredericksburg VA Rappahannock River has to offer for a high-payoff, low-effort experience.

What to expect on Rappahannock River – Canal Path loop from Fredericksburg

This route offers a delightful journey through both urban and natural environments, combining the Rappahannock River Heritage Trail and the Canal Path. You'll cycle on smooth, 10-foot-wide asphalt paths, enjoying beautiful viewpoints of the Rappahannock River and passing by historic mills. The Canal Path section winds through a wooded corridor, offering natural features like wetlands, Snowden Pond, and Cossey Botanical Park, which are great for birdwatching. The terrain is mostly level with only small rises, ensuring a comfortable ride for all ages and skill levels.

Planning your visit

The loop is well-marked and maintained, with amenities like benches for resting and public art installations along the way. You can easily access the trail and find ample parking at Old Mill Park, which also provides convenient restrooms. Portions of the Canal Path are nicely shaded, making it an ideal choice for cycling during warmer months. This family friendly Rappahannock River Canal Path Fredericksburg cycling route is accessible and enjoyable year-round.

Trail details

  • Distance: 13.7 miles (22.1 km)
  • Elevation gain: 386 feet (118 metres)
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 18 minutes

Nearby routes

Moderate

5.0

21

Prince William Forest Park loop via Scenic Drive

01:09h

18.9km

170m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy