The best road cycling routes in Maryland

Maryland offers a diverse range of road cycling terrain. You'll find everything from the flat, coastal plains and gentle rolling hills of the Eastern Shore to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes in the Appalachian Mountains in the west. Many routes also feature forested valleys and paths alongside the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

Yes, Maryland has many easy and family-friendly road cycling options. Routes like the Airport loop — Cantonsville offer straightforward rides through suburban areas. The state also features dedicated paved trails like the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail and the BWI Trail, which are generally flat and well-suited for all skill levels.

Maryland's routes often pass by beautiful natural and historical sites. You can cycle near the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, or explore areas with stunning views like those found near Great Falls Overlook and the Great Falls of the Potomac River. Other routes might take you through natural refuges or along the picturesque coastline.

For longer rides, Maryland offers routes that can be combined or are inherently long. The Annapolis to Baltimore loop via Baltimore & Annapolis Trail is a substantial ride, and the Western Maryland Rail Trail can be combined with sections of the C&O Canal Towpath for extended adventures.

The road cycling routes in Maryland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 460 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, from coastal rides to routes with elevation changes, and the opportunity to explore both natural landscapes and historic areas.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Maryland are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail & Seneca Road loop — Bethesda, the Patuxent Research Refuge loop — Green Belt, and the Loch Raven Reservoir loop — Towson.

Absolutely. While many routes are relatively flat, Maryland also offers more challenging rides with notable elevation changes, particularly in the western part of the state. For instance, the Gambrill State Park loop — Frederick features over 650 meters of ascent, providing a good workout for experienced cyclists.

Maryland's extensive coastline and Chesapeake Bay region provide excellent opportunities for coastal cycling. The Ocean City coastal ride offers flat, scenic views of the Atlantic, while routes like Cambridge to Blackwater – Taylors Island explore the unique landscapes of the Eastern Shore.

Maryland offers good cycling conditions across multiple seasons. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers or vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can be warm, especially in coastal areas, but early mornings are often ideal. Winter cycling is possible, particularly on paved trails, though conditions can vary.

Yes, Maryland's rich history is often intertwined with its cycling routes. The Baltimore & Annapolis Trail follows an old railroad route with historical markers, and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath is a historic trail stretching 184 miles. Routes like the Saint Michaels to Oxford loop take you through charming historic towns on the Eastern Shore.

There are over 1,700 road cycling routes available in Maryland on komoot, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. This includes over 500 easy routes, more than 1,000 moderate routes, and over 170 difficult routes for experienced cyclists.