Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt
Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt
5.0
(2557)
9,646
riders
Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt
02:49
47.8km
180m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 22.8 km for 237 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
3.16 km
Paint Branch Stream Valley Park
Nature Reserve
3.99 km
Paint Branch Stream Valley Park Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
30.2 km
Rachel Carson Greenway and Sligo Creek Trail Junction
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
35.2 km
Anacostia River Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
38.6 km
Northeast Branch Anacostia River
Lake
39.9 km
Northeast Branch Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
41.4 km
College Park Airport
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
42.0 km
Paint Branch
Highlight • River
Tip by
42.5 km
Indian Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
43.4 km
Indian Creek Stream Valley Park
Nature Reserve
43.9 km
Berwyn Heights Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
47.8 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
41.9 km
4.16 km
854 m
647 m
329 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
40.7 km
6.15 km
602 m
278 m
111 m
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Elevation
Highest point (100 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Friday 3 July
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26°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a solid day out on two wheels, the Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt offers a rewarding touring cycling experience. This moderate 29.7-mile (47.8 km) route, with 574 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 49 minutes, making it a great option for cyclists ready for a longer ride without significant technical challenges. It's perfect for those who enjoy varied scenery and a generally smooth, paved path.
What to expect on Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt
The route unfolds as a pleasant journey, primarily on paved asphalt surfaces that follow the Northeast Branch of the Anacostia River. You'll enjoy long stretches of smooth riding, though be prepared for a few mildly bumpy sections and a tricky dip through an underpass. A highlight for many is cycling past the College Park Airport, the world's oldest continuously operating airport, where you might even catch a plane taking off or landing, offering unique viewpoints along College Park Airport loop trail bike. The trail also connects to scenic spots like Lake Artemesia and weaves through various community parks, providing a diverse backdrop of riverine environments and green spaces.
Planning your visit
This loop is part of the extensive Anacostia Tributary Trail System, making it a well-connected and accessible route for touring cycling. Its paved nature ensures it's suitable for a wide range of users, including families. While the constituent trails are considered easy, the overall length and duration contribute to its moderate rating. Parking for Northeast Branch Trail Greenbelt access is generally available, and the trail's connections mean you can easily link up from various points in the area. The best season for Northeast Branch Trail cycling is typically spring through fall, when the weather is mild.
Trail details
- Distance: 29.7 miles (47.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 574 feet (175 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 49 minutes
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