The best road cycling routes around North Laurel

The Little Patuxent River – Savage Park loop from North Laurel offers a delightful road cycling experience, combining peaceful river views with historical landmarks. This moderate 16.0-mile (25.8 km) route, with 664 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete, guiding you through shaded woodlands and along the Little Patuxent River. You'll encounter the historic Bollman Truss Bridge and the impressive Savage Mill, providing a unique blend of nature and heritage.

While generally considered easy, some sections of the Patuxent Branch Trail and Savage Mill Trail feature crushed stone or dirt, which can be bumpy for road bikes, especially after rain. The route is suitable for most skill levels, making it a great option for family-friendly cycling. Parking is typically available near Savage Mill, and the shaded paths make it an enjoyable ride even on warmer days.

This cycling route stands out for its "surprisingly wild feel" amidst suburban surroundings, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. The trail follows a former Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line, with interpretive signs explaining its historical significance. It's one of the best road cycling trails near North Laurel, Maryland, for those seeking a scenic and moderately challenging ride with interesting points of interest.

The Tom Dixon Observation Area – Bollman Truss Bridge loop from Laurel offers a unique road cycling experience, blending the thrill of aviation observation with a journey through Maryland's industrial past. This moderate 50.5 miles (81.3 km) route, with 1763 feet (537 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 28 minutes to complete, making it one of the more popular cycling routes in Howard County, MD. You'll cycle past the Thomas A. Dixon, Jr. Aircraft Observation Area, where planes soar overhead, then transition to the historic Savage Mill and the iconic Bollman Truss Bridge, with its preserved train tracks.

To tackle this loop, plan for a mix of dedicated paved trails like the BWI Trail and Patuxent Branch Trail, interspersed with local road segments through Laurel. Parking is available at the Tom Dixon Observation Area, and starting your ride earlier in the day is advisable to avoid crowds. While there are no specific permits mentioned, always check local regulations for cycling in Howard County, Maryland, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main trails.

What makes this route truly stand out is its blend of distinct environments: the modern marvel of an international airport and the historical significance of the 1869 Bollman Truss Bridge, a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The Laurel road cycling terrain is mostly paved, but be prepared for some compacted gravel sections on the Savage Mill Trail. This route is ideal for cyclists who appreciate diverse scenery and a touch of history on their rides.

This road cycling route offers a diverse journey through Howard County, Maryland, blending suburban landscapes with historic towns and scenic river trails. You'll pedal past the impressive Bollman Truss Bridge, a 19th-century engineering marvel, and navigate the charming, hilly streets of Historic Ellicott City. Expect a mix of flat sections and significant climbs, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy varied terrain and historical exploration.

To tackle this 42.4-mile (68.3 km) loop, which features 2421 feet (738 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 3 hours and 18 minutes, plan your route carefully as it combines dedicated paths with public roads. Starting from the Laurel Race Track area, be prepared for varying traffic levels and potential busy intersections. Spring and fall are ideal for this moderate-difficulty ride, offering comfortable temperatures for the challenging ascents.

The route is notable for connecting several key historical and natural landmarks. Beyond the Bollman Truss Bridge, you'll encounter Savage Mill, a redeveloped historic textile mill, and enjoy stretches along the Patuxent Branch Trail, which offers peaceful riverside views. The challenging climbs around Ellicott City provide access to the beautiful Patapsco Valley State Park, adding a natural dimension to this history-rich cycling adventure.