Francis Scott Key Bridge – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Dupont Circle
Francis Scott Key Bridge – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Dupont Circle
3.5
(23)
77
riders
Francis Scott Key Bridge – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Dupont Circle
03:21
48.3km
170m
Gravel riding
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that go up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 142 m for 34 m
After 3.64 km for 6 m
After 3.72 km for 9 m
After 40.7 km for 15 m
After 44.4 km for 28 m
After 45.1 km for 9 m
After 48.2 km for 29 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
3.33 km
Francis Scott Key Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
3.75 km
Potomac River
Highlight • River
Tip by
15.7 km
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
Lake
20.4 km
Great Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
24.3 km
Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls
Highlight • River
Tip by
24.5 km
Great Falls Park on the C&O Trail
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
24.9 km
Lock 15 – great view near the Great Falls
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
26.0 km
Widewater
Lake
37.9 km
Lock 6, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
Highlight • Monument
The lock keeper's houses …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
40.8 km
Crossing Over the C&O Canal
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
48.3 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
34.7 km
11.5 km
1.39 km
368 m
255 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
27.1 km
11.4 km
7.86 km
1.22 km
380 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 25 June
31°C
17°C
-- %
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a gravel biking route that seamlessly blends city access with stunning natural beauty and a touch of history, the Francis Scott Key Bridge – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Dupont Circle is definitely worth your time. This moderate 30.0-mile (48.3 km) gravel ride, with 557 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete, making it an excellent choice for riders with good fitness seeking a substantial day out from the heart of DC.
What to expect on Francis Scott Key Bridge – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Dupont Circle
This route offers a journey through varied landscapes, starting from the urban buzz of Dupont Circle and quickly transitioning to the serene C&O Canal Towpath. You'll ride on a mix of packed clay and crushed stone, a surface that's mostly flat thanks to its history as a mule path, though some paved sections exist closer to the city. As you follow the Potomac River, you'll pass through wooded areas and historic lock structures, with the dramatic, tumbling waters of Great Falls serving as a spectacular natural highlight. The ride requires good fitness due to its length, but the relatively gentle terrain makes it suitable for those ready for a longer day in the saddle, especially on a hybrid or mountain bike.
Planning your visit
Starting from Dupont Circle offers easy access to this popular route. While the C&O Canal Towpath itself is generally accessible, be prepared for the full distance and ensure your bike is suitable for gravel surfaces. There are no specific permit requirements mentioned for biking the towpath, but it's always wise to carry enough water, especially on warmer days. The varied scenery makes this a pleasant ride across multiple seasons, though dry conditions are best for the unpaved sections.
Trail details
- Distance: 30.0 miles (48.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 557 feet (170 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Comments
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