Crossing Over the C&O Canal – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Street

United States

District Of Columbia

Crossing Over the C&O Canal – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Street

Moderate

4.7

(1768)

12,767

riders

Crossing Over the C&O Canal – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Street

03:55

66.4km

350m

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: September 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 27.0 km for 220 m

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

4.98 km

Potomac River

Highlight • River

The Potomac River, stretching 405 miles from the Potomac Highlands in West Virginia to Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, ranks as the fourth-largest river on the East Coast. Swimming is prohibited in the District of Columbia's portion of the river. George Washington envisioned the Potomac as "the great avenue into the Western Country," and it played a central role in his life, serving as a vital hub during his era. For scenic views of the Potomac River on a bike, follow the Capital Crescent Trail, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail, or the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

Tip by

9.26 km

Crossing Over the C&O Canal

Highlight • Bridge

It's just a shame that cycling is only allowed on the paved road. The many earthy trails to the right and left of the road are very tempting for a mountain biker. Unfortunately explicitly forbidden.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

11.5 km

Dalecarlia Tunnel

Highlight • Structure

The Dalecarlia Tunnel runs the Capital Crescent Trail under the Washington Aqueduct and MacArthur Boulevard. It was built in 1910 as a railway tunnel and is now over 100 years old.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

38.6 km

Widewater

Lake

40.1 km

Great Falls Park on the C&O Trail

Highlight • Waterfall

Located at mile 14.3 on the C&O Canal Towpath in Potomac, Maryland, Great Falls Park is a must-visit highlight for hikers, cyclists, and history buffs alike. A short boardwalk leads to the Olmsted Island overlook, where the Potomac River dramatically crashes over jagged rocks—one of the most scenic views near D.C. For hikers, the popular Billy Goat Trail offers three segments, with Section A featuring challenging rock scrambles and breathtaking river views. The historic Great Falls Tavern, built in 1829, now serves as a visitor center and launch point for seasonal mule-drawn canal boat rides. The towpath itself is flat and easy to navigate, ideal for walking or biking. Amenities include restrooms, picnic spots, and interpretive exhibits. Parking is available at the visitor center (fee required), or you can park for free at nearby Swains Lock and walk or ride 2.5 miles to the falls.

Tip by

40.3 km

Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls

Highlight • River

Great Falls has a scenic Horseshoe Bend where the river curves in a horseshoe shape around a rocky outcrop. It's a nice spot to stop for photos on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail.

Tip by

40.6 km

Start of the Great Falls Foot Trail

Highlight • Trail

The Great Falls of the Potomac is a place with various rapids and small falls in the Potomac. The place marked here may only be entered on foot. Bicycles and dogs 😜 must stay outside.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

41.5 km

Lock 15 – great view near the Great Falls

Highlight • Viewpoint

Not too bumpy or overcrowded, but do expect to find people and cyclists on the path!

Tip by

47.1 km

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

Lake

54.4 km

Lock 6, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

Highlight • Monument

One of the locks (#6 of 75) on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. These should ensure the shipping traffic between Cumberland and Washington to transport coal.
The lock keeper's houses next to the lock have been restored and can be used as overnight accommodation.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

66.4 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types