Rachel Carson Greenway and Sligo Creek Trail Junction
Rachel Carson Greenway and Sligo Creek Trail Junction
Tips
October 10, 2019
Cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Rachel Carson Greenway and Sligo Creek Trail Junction
4.9
(15)
79
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
32
riders
47.8km
02:49
180m
180m
The Northeast Branch Trail – College Park Airport loop from Greenbelt offers a delightful touring cycling adventure, primarily on smooth, paved surfaces that hug the Northeast Branch of the Anacostia River. You'll pedal through pleasant green spaces, past community parks, and experience the unique thrill of cycling alongside the historic College Park Airport, where you might spot aircraft. While mostly flat, the route includes a few mildly bumpy sections and underpasses, providing a varied but comfortable ride.
This moderate 29.7-mile (47.8 km) loop, with 574 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 49 minutes to complete, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a longer outing without steep climbs. It's a great option for families and beginner cyclists looking to challenge themselves with distance, as the Northeast Branch Trail College Park Airport loop cycling difficulty stems more from its length than technical demands. Parking for Northeast Branch Trail Greenbelt access is readily available, making it easy to start your journey.
As a key part of the Capital Trails Coalition and the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, this route offers excellent connectivity, linking to other trails like the Paint Branch Trail towards the University of Maryland and providing access to Lake Artemesia. The presence of the College Park Airport, the world's oldest continuously operating airport, adds a fascinating historical and visual element to your ride, distinguishing it among the best touring cycling trails in the Greenbelt area.
4.0
(1)
30
riders
37.8km
02:15
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation -20 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 13 June
32°C
21°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December