Canal Connection: Annapolis BWI

This route aims to minimize traffic stress between DC and Annapolis, then uses the WB&A Trail to continue on to BWI Airport (with frequent MARC train connections back to DC or onward to Baltimore).

The first 45 miles and last 23 miles are quite pleasant and feature a combination of trails, bike lanes, and low/medium traffic paved roads. The middle 9 miles have more traffic, including 4 miles on very busy Riva Rd. Based on numerous scouting trips, this is likely the least bad of the limited options for crossing the South River. For this section, rear lights and high visibility gear are recommended at all times in all weather conditions.

The best time to ride this route is early on a weekend morning. For riders averaging a net pace 12mph or faster, a weekday alternative is to time your morning departure such that you exit the Anacostia River Trail system (mile 19) around 9am–10am and exit Annapolis (mile 54) well before peak afternoon rush hour. Riding the section between mile 44 and mile 54 during rush hour is not recommended.

This is a C&O Canal Byways route: canalbyways.com

Direct link to full RWGPS collection: ridewithgps.com/collections/46377?privacy_code=M6YAeFu4vje3H0Ya