Gravel Near and Far - Alternative Mixed Surface Route near DC
Photos: Andy, Kelly, & Coman
We at Great Eskape really enjoy long rides on a mix of paved and gravel roads. Something about being deep in more rustic and pastoral settings instead of getting buzzed by cars on river road just feels more appealing to us, not sure what. The only problem is that all the best routes seem to start way out in Leesburg, VA - and for a DC based team with friends and teammates in Maryland it can really feel like quite a haul. That’s why we set out to find a route that began and ended on the Maryland/DC side of the Potomac that still gave us access to quite roads and a mix of road surfaces.
After a couple months of scouting routes we’re pleased to share with the world a metric century route that include a nice mix of mostly quiet roads, barring a sketchy bridge crossing or two. The route includes some challenging climbs, a lot of sweeping views, pastoral landscapes, and a lunch stop in the beautiful town of Brunswick, Maryland. We hope you enjoy!
Check out Addison’s onboard ride preview of the Gravel Metric Route, below!
We have scouted, but not yet ridden a full century version as well! Route below.