The best traffic-free bike rides around Arlington

There are over 160 no-traffic touring cycling routes around Arlington, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes ranging from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging, longer tours.

Arlington boasts an extensive network of popular car-free trails. Key routes include the Arlington Loop, which combines the Mount Vernon Trail, Custis Trail, W&OD Trail, and Four Mile Run Trail. The Mount Vernon Trail offers stunning Potomac River views, while the W&OD Trail extends further out into more rural landscapes.

Yes, Arlington offers many easy, car-free routes perfect for families and beginners. The Mount Vernon Trail, for instance, is mostly flat and provides smooth riding with scenic views. The Four Mile Run Trail also offers a gentle ride through parks and residential areas. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide, such as The Long Man of Wilmington – Alfriston Village loop from Arlington.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Arlington primarily feature paved multi-use trails. While many sections are relatively flat, especially along the Potomac River, some trails like the Custis Trail include moderate elevation changes and hilly sections. The W&OD Trail transitions from urban to more rural, offering varied scenery.

Many routes offer access to significant attractions. The Mount Vernon Trail provides views of Washington D.C. landmarks and connects to Theodore Roosevelt Island. You can also find natural highlights like the Arlington Reservoir, or explore historical sites such as the Combe Hill Causewayed Enclosure. Gravelly Point Park is a popular spot for plane spotting near the Potomac.

Yes, the Arlington Loop is a prominent 16-mile paved circuit that combines several major local trails, offering a fantastic circular, car-free touring experience. Many other routes in the area are also designed as loops, such as the Arlington Reservoir loop from Arlington, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for touring cycling in Arlington, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring cold temperatures, though many paved trails remain accessible year-round for dedicated cyclists.

While many routes are suitable for day trips, the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail extends 45 miles from Arlington to Purcellville, providing an excellent foundation for longer rides or multi-day tours when combined with other trails. You can link various segments to create extended car-free adventures.

Many of Arlington's major trails, including the Custis Trail and sections of the Arlington Loop, are accessible via the Metrorail system, particularly at stations in Rosslyn, Courthouse, and Clarendon. Capital Bikeshare stations are also conveniently located near many trailheads, offering an easy way to start your ride.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Arlington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved surfaces, the scenic views along the Potomac, and the excellent connectivity of the trail network, making it easy to enjoy long rides away from vehicle traffic.

While popular trails like the Mount Vernon Trail can get busy, especially on weekends, exploring segments of the W&OD Trail further west from Arlington, or some of the smaller connector trails like the Bluemont Junction Trail, can offer a more peaceful experience. Weekday rides are generally less crowded across all trails.

Many of Arlington's trails pass through or near urban centers and residential areas, providing easy access to cafes, restaurants, and pubs. The W&OD Trail, in particular, connects several towns with various amenities. The Arlington Loop also takes you through areas with numerous dining options, especially around Rosslyn and Clarendon.