Rock Creek Park – Rock Creek Trail loop from Silver Spring
Rock Creek Park – Rock Creek Trail loop from Silver Spring
4.5
(1947)
5,545
riders
Rock Creek Park – Rock Creek Trail loop from Silver Spring
01:55
34.5km
200m
Mountain biking
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 16.7 km for 111 m
After 17.5 km for 159 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
4.08 km
Rock Creek Park
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
4.63 km
Joaquin Miller log cabin
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
8.24 km
Peirce Mill
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
15.4 km
C&O Canal Mile Marker 0
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
15.8 km
Rock Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
16.0 km
View of the Georgetown Waterfront
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
17.6 km
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
34.5 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
29.5 km
1.94 km
1.03 km
933 m
791 m
380 m
Surfaces
27.2 km
7.14 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
27°C
21°C
77 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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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 surprisingly green escape on two wheels right from the city's edge, the Rock Creek Park – Rock Creek Trail loop from Silver Spring is an easy mountain biking route that delivers. This 21.5-mile (34.5 km) loop, with a gentle 664 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, takes just under two hours, making it perfect for a relaxed ride without the technical demands of traditional mountain biking.
What to expect on Rock Creek Park – Rock Creek Trail loop from Silver Spring
The route unfolds as a journey through a lush, wooded corridor, offering a natural refuge within an urban setting. You'll primarily ride on paved multi-use paths, though the Maryland section of the Rock Creek Trail can have uneven asphalt due to tree roots, adding a bit of character to the ride. As you head into Washington D.C.'s Rock Creek Park, much of Beach Drive offers extensive car-free riding on weekends, providing smooth surfaces and scenic views past historic landmarks like Peirce Mill and Boulder Bridge. This trail is ideal for mountain bikers who appreciate a beautiful, accessible ride over technical challenges, offering a mix of gentle inclines and descents.
Planning your visit
While this loop is excellent for mountain bikes, remember that mountain biking on unpaved trails or singletracks is generally prohibited within Rock Creek Park in Washington D.C. The paved surfaces are well-maintained, especially on Beach Drive when it's closed to traffic on weekends and holidays, offering a fantastic car-free experience. There are no specific permits mentioned for this route, making it easily accessible for a spontaneous ride. Consider starting early to enjoy the tranquility before the paths get busier, especially on pleasant weekend mornings.
Trail details
- Distance: 21.5 miles (34.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 664 feet (202 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 54 minutes
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