Fishing Shore Beach – Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail loop from Dupont Circle
Fishing Shore Beach – Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail loop from Dupont Circle
2.7
(15)
76
riders
Fishing Shore Beach – Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail loop from Dupont Circle
02:06
30.9km
70m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 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 3.35 km for 9 m
After 4.03 km for 28 m
After 27.9 km for 20 m
After 30.8 km for 29 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
5.98 km
Fishing Shore Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
11.2 km
Little Falls Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
14.8 km
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
15.7 km
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
Lake
20.7 km
Lock 6, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
Highlight • Monument
The lock keeper's houses …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
25.6 km
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
30.9 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
22.5 km
6.85 km
819 m
439 m
181 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.18 km
8.43 km
5.82 km
5.12 km
2.06 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 3 July
38°C
27°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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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 solid mountain biking loop from the heart of DC, the route named "Fishing Shore Beach – Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail loop from Dupont Circle" offers a moderate 19.2-mile (30.9 km) ride with a gentle 231 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 5 minutes. This route is essentially your gateway to the historic C&O Canal Towpath, perfect for those who want a relatively flat, scenic escape without leaving the city too far behind.
What to expect on Fishing Shore Beach – Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail loop from Dupont Circle
This ride quickly takes you from urban streets to the tranquil C&O Canal Towpath, often via the paved Capital Crescent Trail to avoid initial busy sections. You'll find yourself on a largely flat path of crushed gravel and hard-packed clay, winding through heavily wooded areas alongside the Potomac River. Expect to see historical structures like lock-keeper cottages and aqueducts, with river views best in the leafless seasons. While the terrain is generally easy, varying surface conditions, especially after rain, can add a moderate challenge, making it suitable for hybrid, gravel, or mountain bikes with wider tires.
Planning your visit
Accessing the C&O Canal Towpath from Dupont Circle typically involves navigating city streets to connect with the Capital Crescent Trail in Georgetown, which then leads to the C&O Canal Towpath at Fletcher's Boathouse. The path is car-free, making it a peaceful ride once you're on it. Be aware that sections can become very muddy after rain, so check conditions before you go. This trail is enjoyable year-round, but the canopy provides welcome shade during warmer months.
Trail details
- Distance: 19.2 miles (30.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 231 feet (71 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
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