Monocacy Aqueduct – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Barnesville

The Monocacy Aqueduct – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Barnesville is one of those touring cycling routes that truly earns its "difficult" rating, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. This 77.6-mile (124.9 km) loop, with a substantial 1433 feet (437 metres) of elevation gain, will take you around 9 hours and 9 minutes to complete, making it an ideal pick for experienced cyclists seeking a full day of diverse terrain and stunning scenery.

What to expect on Monocacy Aqueduct – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Barnesville

This route is a dynamic blend of historical pathways and natural grandeur. You'll spend significant time on the historic Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal Towpath, which is generally flat and composed of hard-packed earth and crushed stone, but be prepared for some unpaved segments that can be tricky, especially if you don't have hybrid or mountain bike tires. The highlight is undoubtedly the impressive Monocacy Aqueduct, an early 19th-century engineering marvel that carries the canal over the Monocacy River, often surrounded by a lush "tunnel of trees." As you approach Great Falls Park, the terrain shifts, with wide gravel paths like the Old Carriage Road, featuring two substantial hills that demand effort, and more technical sections on the Difficult Run Trail, which can be steep, rocky, and narrow. The dramatic views of the Potomac River cascading over jagged rocks at Great Falls and the scenic Horseshoe Bend are your well-earned rewards, making this route best suited for cyclists with very good fitness and a preference for varied surfaces.

Planning your visit

Given the route's length and difficulty, an early start is highly recommended to ensure you have ample daylight, especially since the estimated duration is over nine hours. While much of the route is described as "mostly paved," be prepared for unpaved sections, particularly on the C&O Canal Towpath and within Great Falls Park, so check your tire choice. There are no specific permits mentioned for this loop, but always be mindful of park regulations within Great Falls Park. Carry plenty of water and snacks, as services might be sparse along some stretches of this extensive loop.

Trail details

• Distance: 77.6 miles (124.9 km)
• Elevation gain: 1433 feet (437 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 9 hours and 9 minutes