As a big bike-thusiast, late summer/early fall is my favorite time to go riding in D.C. Whether you’re training for a race or just renting a city bike, here are the area's best off-street bike trails for your very own Tour de D.C. Be sure to wear a helmet and remember your bike etiquette.
Capital Crescent Trail (13 miles)
D.C.’s most popular recreation trail, the CCT connects Georgetown and Silver Spring. It’s paved all the way to Bethesda and makes for a relaxing ride with plenty to see along the way. The best part is you can stop for ice cream in Georgetown when you’re done.
Metropolitan Branch Trail (8 miles)
Running between Union Station and Silver Spring, the MBT is a central path for commuters but also makes for great recreation with lots of stops along the way. (I’ve even seen people make pub crawls out of it.) It also has some of the city’s best murals on route.
Anacostia River Trail (12 miles)
This bike path goes right along the river and is being expanded to 20 miles. This one is not a rail trail and follows the natural topography, making it more of a workout.
C&O Canal Towpath (184.5 miles)
This path was once an important commercial transportation corridor. Most of it is unpaved and better for off-road bikes, but it has amazing views, especially in the spring and fall.
Beach Drive Trail (5+ miles)
This is my daily go to as it is easily accessible from almost anywhere in Northwest D.C. The trail follows the river all the way up Rock Creek Park and uses parts of Beach Drive that have been closed to cars. But be careful, lots of walkers and runners share this trail.
