See larger version of course map.

1 mile: Go across Key Bridge, turn quick right through Key Park down to canal tow path. Stay on M St side of canal and run towards Rock Creek (away from Key Bridge).

2 miles: At the end of C&O Canal Trail, turn left onto Rock Creek Trail.

5 miles: Pass the Zoo.

6 miles: Pass Peirce Mill and continue straight on Beach Rd. where the trail leaves off.

8 miles: Pass the Ranger Station.

11 miles: Just after DC/Maryland border, take the footbridge to the right when you see a nice bike trail which goes parallel to the road. Follow signs for Rock Creek Trail. Stay on path around ball fields, onto sidewalk along Meadowbrook Lane, and past horse stables and cross East-West Highway, continuing on bike path past soccer fields, and back into a forest setting along Rock Creek.

11.5 miles: After passing under Rock Creek Trestle Bridge, follow sign for Georgetown Branch Trail which directs you to turn left on unnamed bike trail which takes you to Susanna Lane cul-de-sac.

12 miles: Left on Jones Mill Rd., then QUICK RIGHT (cross street at pedestrian stop light) onto Georgetown Branch Trail (gravel).

14 miles: Go through tunnel at Wisconsin Avenue, then cross street diagonally to get on Capital Crescent Trail across from Barnes & Noble, next to Honda dealership.

17 miles: Pass through another tunnel (Dalecarlia Tunnel), then water fountain at mile marker 6.5. You have 5 miles to go.

18.5 miles: Just past mile marker 8.0, water and restrooms at Fletcher's Boathouse. Also, jump onto the C&O Canal here if you want a break from the asphalt.

21 miles: At end of Capital Crescent Trail (mile marker 10.5), go a little on Water St., under Key Bridge, then turn left to go up the stairs, across the canal, and cross Key Bridge back to Virginia.

22.5 miles: Finish and have refreshments. Stretch and enjoy social time.

Water opportunities:
- 5 miles: Zoo entrance (50 feet into Zoo from Rock Creek Trail)
- 6 miles: Peirce Mill (right next to the trail)
- 8 miles: Near Ranger Station
- 11.5 miles: On bike path, after East West Highway, before Susanna Lane
- 14 miles: After tunnel near Barnes and Noble (mile marker 3.5)
- 17 miles: After tunnel (near mile marker 6.5)
- 18.5 miles: At Fletcher's Boathouse (near mile marker 8)