Francis Scott Key Bridge – Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop from King Street–Old Town
Francis Scott Key Bridge – Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop from King Street–Old Town
3.2
(9)
55
riders
Francis Scott Key Bridge – Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop from King Street–Old Town
02:40
44.0km
160m
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: June 3, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 17.4 km for 190 m
After 18.6 km for 242 m
After 22.8 km for 68 m
After 27.0 km for 147 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
7.42 km
Mount Vernon Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
This stretch runs through Daingerfield Island and has great views of the Potomac River.
Tip by
12.5 km
Gravelly Point Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
14.2 km
View of the Washington Monument from the 14th Street Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
14.9 km
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
21.1 km
View of the Georgetown Waterfront
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
23.2 km
Francis Scott Key Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
27.1 km
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
28.9 km
View of the Washington Monument from Lady Bird Johnson Park
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
44.0 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
38.5 km
1.72 km
1.68 km
1.30 km
712 m
176 m
Surfaces
31.2 km
10.8 km
1.21 km
546 m
256 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 25 June
31°C
18°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 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 touring cycling route that blends iconic American history with scenic riverfront paths, the Francis Scott Key Bridge – Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop from King Street–Old Town is a fantastic choice. This moderate 27.4-mile (44.0 km) route, with 527 feet (161 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It's perfect for urban explorers and history buffs who want a diverse cycling experience, offering a unique perspective on the Washington D.C. area's rich heritage and natural beauty.
What to expect on Francis Scott Key Bridge – Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop from King Street–Old Town
This cycling route takes you on a journey through varied landscapes, starting from the historic charm of King Street in Old Town Alexandria. You'll follow the paved Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River, enjoying serene water views and wooded stretches before reaching the bustling urban environment of Washington D.C. Crossing the Francis Scott Key Bridge offers impressive river vistas, though it can be windy and loud with traffic. The route then guides you to the poignant Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a deeply significant landmark. While generally easy to moderate on paved surfaces, be prepared for some noise and potential pedestrian traffic in urban sections, making it suitable for road bikes, hybrids, and families comfortable with city cycling.
Planning your visit
The D.C. area boasts an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, making this Francis Scott Key Bridge Vietnam Veterans Memorial loop King Street Old Town cycling route highly accessible. You can easily start from King Street–Old Town Alexandria, which offers various parking options, though arriving earlier in the day is advisable, especially on weekends. For those using public transport, the King Street–Old Town Metro station provides convenient access. Capital Bikeshare is also widely available throughout Washington D.C. and Arlington, VA, offering a flexible option for your ride. Consider cycling during milder weather to fully enjoy the riverfront views and urban exploration.
Trail details
- Distance: 27.4 miles (44.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 527 feet (161 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Comments
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