No matter your style of riding, Frederick County has a route for you. From scenic rides through the city and countryside to a taste of mountain biking and multi-day trips, you can’t go wrong in this slice of Maryland.
Road cyclists will love the North County Bridge Sampler, a 40-mile excursion through the county as you cross three covered bridges, and the Campaign Ride, a tour of the area’s Civil War history that cuts through through Frederick, a Bicycle Friendly City. When you’re done in the saddle, Downtown Frederick is full of restaurants and shops to try. Kick back with a cold beer and sandwich from Brewer’s Alley Restaurant & Brewery or go for an upscale cocktail and dinner from Hootch & Banter. North Market Pop Shop is the place to stop for all kinds of treats, including over 400 varieties of glass bottle soda pop. Creme de la Creme carries a variety of home decor and art while Retro Metro is a one-stop shop for quirky gift items.
Running along the county’s southern border, the C&O Canal Towpath offers endless opportunities for day trippers, bikepackers, and families alike. You can expect a flat stretch of gravel riding with a shaded tree canopy. Stop into Brunswick, a Canal Town, to rest your legs and grab a bite to eat. Beans in the Belfry, a delightful cafe housed in an old church, features a menu filled with comfort foods like breakfast sandwiches served on flaky croissants and an assortment of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. While in town, check out the mountain biking trails at River’s Edge for a variety of flowy and downhill rides.
Need something while you’re in town? River & Trail Outfitters can hook you up with gear rentals and shuttles, plus guided tours along the canal. For all of your tune-up and spare parts needs while on the road, Wheel Base has you covered. Reserve a road, adventure, or mountain bike and learn about the best places to ride through Bicycle Escape.
Plan your trip for the end of October when Frederick County will host the 2021 USA Cycling Marathon Mountain Bike National Championships. With events taking place at Gambrill State Park and the Frederick City Watershed, you can see some of the best riders in action while enjoying two world-class mountain biking locations. Book a room at one of the hotels in Frederick to stay close to the action.
