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Lincoln Memorial on Washington DC Self-Guided Bike Tour
Mount Vernon Estate on Washington DC Self-Guided Bike Tour
Wetlands along Mt. Vernon trail in Alexandria
Arlington Memorial Bridge on Washington DC Self Guided
Row houses in Washington, D.C.
Bridge and historic Georgetown
Lincoln Memorial on Washington DC Self-Guided Bike Tour Mount Vernon Estate on Washington DC Self-Guided Bike Tour Wetlands along Mt. Vernon trail in Alexandria Arlington Memorial Bridge on Washington DC Self Guided Row houses in Washington, D.C. Bridge and historic Georgetown
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Washington D.C. Self-Guided Bike Tour

Georgetown, Mount Vernon, and the US National Monuments

Washington D.C. is certain to have something for everyone, from American history, to the thriving art and culture, to an array of outdoor adventures. And that's just for starters! Exploring Washington, D.C. by bicycle opens a new world of possibilities to take in its true essence. These self-guided rides are a fantastic mix of quiet, wooded, cycling paths and dedicated bicycle lanes in surrounding suburbs. Along the way, you’ll see the amazing mix of arts, culture and historic monuments. Washington D.C is a city like non other where modern metropolis meets U.S history. Your boutique hotel is in the heart of Georgetown, one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods, on a quiet street with colorful 18th-century townhouses within walking distance from world-class dining, and an array of shops and galleries all situated right along the Potomac River. Book your trip with confidence »
Learn if a self-guided trip is right for you »
Great Falls Tavern in Washington, D.C.
From:
$1999 Per Person
Duration:
4 Days & 3 Nights
Rider Level: ?
2 - Recreational Non-riders Welcome
Trip Style: ?
Self-Guided
Hotel Level: ?
Explorer
Reviews:
From $1999 per person View All Details
Close Details
Trip Wows
Cycle to the historic Mount Vernon, home of the nation's founder, George Washington
Dig in to one of the most acclaimed culinary destinations in the nation with world-class dishes and drinks
Stay in the heart of historic Georgetown with historic landmarks, boutique galleries, and the Potomac River just outside your hotel
Take in stunning views cycling across the Potomac River to the cobblestone streets of historic Old Town Alexandria
Experience the the endless art and culture from the free Smithsonian museums to funky music venues throughout the District
Cyclist in Washington, D.C.
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
-John, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Prices

The Earlier You Book, The Greater The Rewards

We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price and date are guaranteed.
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Private/
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Single Occupancy from: +$500
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May 1 – May 4 
Guaranteed
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy / Plus 6% state and local sales tax Book this date
May 8 – May 11 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy / Plus 6% state and local sales tax Book this date
May 15 – May 18 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy / Plus 6% state and local sales tax Book this date
May 22 – May 25 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy / Plus 6% state and local sales tax Book this date
Don't see your ideal travel date? 
Call us at (866) 464-8735 for custom date availability
Looking for a one of a kind, once in a lifetime experience?
Look no further. Choose your trip date, get your group together and we will do the rest. Private trip pricing is as follows:

  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$750 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$2,000 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$3,000 per person to trip price*
  • 1 Guest        Call us for pricing*


Traveling with a small group? Consider semi-private trips.
For groups of up to six people, semi-private trips offer unique flexibility within a larger Trek Travel guided trip. Learn more »

*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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We've got you covered. We’ll work with you to build your perfect vacation from scratch, including your choice of riding, accommodations and dining options. With the help of our trip designers and travel experts, the world is available like never before.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
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Day To Day

See Dates & Pricing Download PDF

Welcome to the center of it all! Meet your Trek Travel host at 11:00 AM at the beautiful Graham Georgetown Hotel. Your host will familiarize you with your Trek bicycle and make sure you have a comfortable fit for the week ahead. Then, it's off on your first biking adventure to explore Washington, D.C.’s iconic landmarks. From Georgetown, you will follow bike paths along Waterfront Park, leading you towards the heart of the capital. Cycle across the Arlington memorial bridge to the revered Arlington National Cemetery. Here you can choose to dismount your bike and tour the cemetery or continue riding. The bike trail takes you along the banks of the Potomac River and to the National Mall and Tidal Basin. In one afternoon you'll see all the major monuments of D.C., including the White House, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial - just to name a few! After this whirlwind tour, return to Georgetown for the evening where you can choose from many world-class dining options in town, using your Ride With GPS app that we have loaded with suggestions for you.

Today's Ride:

Capital Loop
Approximately 13 mi | 21 km and 376 ft | 35 m

Hotel:

The Graham Georgetown

You’ll begin your day riding along the Potomac River, past Roosevelt Island (take a detour onto the island if you’d like), crossing the Potomac to Old Town Alexandria. You will follow the scenic Mount Vernon trail passing several historic points of interest. Tree canopy covering much of the trail will transport you back in time to the early days of America, making the ride a wonderful way to enjoy the timeless feel of the Mount Vernon Estates. Lock up your bike and explore the beautiful estate and home to the first President of the United States. Book a guided tour of George Washington's home, simply walk the picturesque grounds, or enjoy a beer at the beer garden. As you cycle back towards Georgetown, consider a lunch stop in Old Town Alexandria. This historic district along the Potomac is marked by cobblestone streets and 18th-century townhouses in an array of colors. Stroll past boutique shops and foodie spots lining King Street or grab a bite at one of the open-air eateries by the river. After a great day of riding consider enjoying a drink from your hotel’s rooftop as you decide where to dine this evening.

Today's Ride:

Georgetown to Mount Vernon
Approximately 37 mi | 60 km and 430 ft | 190 m

Avid Option:

Georgetown to Mount Vernon with NOVA Loop
Approximately 68 mi | 110 km and 2,785 ft | 849 m

Hotel:

The Graham Georgetown

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Today you have a beautiful ride in store as you cycle out to Great Falls along a favorite local road for cyclists that takes you to the beautiful suburbs of the D.C. area. You will spend a short stint cycling the Towpath before arriving in Great Falls Park where you can choose to lock up your bike and enjoy a short hike to admire the Potomac River where it builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. Avid riders can continue on past Great Falls cycling quiet roads with rolling suburban hills, on this "figure eight" option. Consider a stop at Old Anglers Inn for lunch on your return. This evening explore the wonderful array of shops on M street or perhaps take a stroll to nearby Blues Alley, a jazz diner founded in 1965. Throughout decades, many of the world's greatest jazz and blues players have graced the stage here. Or if you prefer to get some fresh air this evening, stroll down to one of the many “streateries” where you’ll have your pick of cuisine at great ambiance.

Today's Ride:

Great Falls Lollipop
Approximately 29 mi | 47 km and 1,170 ft | 357 m

Avid Option:

Great Falls Lollipop Extended
Approximately 56 mi | 90 km and 2,606 ft | 794 m

Included Meals:

Breakfast

For your last ride in the District, hop on the Capital Crescent Trail to make your way to the state line crossing into Maryland. Continue to follow dedicated bike trails as you cycle along the verdant Rock Creek Trail. On your way back around towards Georgetown, opt to take a detour to the Smithsonian National Zoo, a world-renowned destination for animal lovers. If you prefer to enjoy a slower morning, sleep in and take one last morning stroll along the cobblestone streets of Georgetown. You'll then meet your Trek Travel host in the hotel lobby at 11:00 AM to say goodbye.

Today's Ride:

Georgetown to Rock Creek Park
Approximately 23 mi | 37 km and 1,060 ft | 322 m

Hotel:

The Graham Georgetown

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

The Graham Georgetown

Washington, D.C.

Explorer Accommodation | Situated on a quiet street in the heart of Georgetown, the Graham Hotel is a boutique hotel nestled in one of the most historic areas of Washington D.C. Located between the famous M Street shops and historic B & O Canal, directly above the iconic Washington Harbor, and a pleasant stroll to the Potomac River and Washington Harbor. Enjoy a rooftop beverage or venture back to the 1920s at the hotel's cozy speakeasy and tribute to prohibition, The Alex. Located in a vibrant and thriving local neighborhood, filled with plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and beautiful scenery, The Graham is a perfect hub for your Washington, D.C. adventures.
www.thegrahamgeorgetown.com

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More experiences. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc

The Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc is the perfect bike for your self-guided trip. Its lightweight aerodynamic frame will have you cruising with ease throughout your day. The Shimano hydraulic brakes give you consistent stopping power and control in any weather. The Emonda SL 5 is equipped with Shimano 105 components, the workhorse group of Shimano's lineup that will keep your focus on enjoying the hills with its buttery smooth shifting. We think you'll like this bike so much, you'll want to get one of your own! Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3

This comfortable bike is perfectly designed to give you that little boost you want. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3 Low-Step

With its Low-Step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ 3 is super easy. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

View all our bikes & gear

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Three nights of accommodation at a handpicked hotel
  • Daily breakfast
  • Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin GPS computer, a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump, front and rear lights
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
  • Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
  • Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
  • Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

GEAR

  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep, available in a limited quantity
  • Garmin GPS computer with mount
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Each bike is equipped with a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your Trek Travel host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

For self-guided trips you are welcome to thank your host with a gratuity based on your level of service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 2 / 3 - Recreational / Active?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
57 kilometers / 36 miles
TOTAL MILES:
286 kilometers / 178 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
961 meters / 3,154 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
4,806 meters / 15,770 feet
TERRAIN: UNDULATING
The terrain in Washington D.C is generally flat to undulating with a few rolling hills. Rides will take place on a mix of bike lanes and bike paths with occasional packed gravel. Our Washington D.C. self-guided bike tour is best suited for our Type 2 and Type 3 Riders. The routes have been designed to avoid busy roadways as much as possible, however, short sections of busy roads are unavoidable. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and the transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Visiting the National Mall
  • Shopping on Georgetown's M Street
  • Explore the Smithsonian Institution’s museums
  • Take a D.C. boat tour along the Potomac River
  • Tour the White House
  • Washington, D.C. offers endless options of world-class museums, memorials, beautiful gardens, and arts venues

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or Trek Travel's local experts to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our "Today’s Ride" options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
MEETING TIME:
11:00 AM
MEETING LOCATION:
The Graham Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
DEPARTING TIME:
11:00 AM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
The Graham Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

All Details

Arriving

We suggest that you arrive at least one day before the start of your Washington D.C self-guided bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Dulles International Airport (IAD) as it is the closest international airport serving the Washington, D.C. metro area.

From the airport, you can call a taxi to take you to Georgetown. Taxis are readily available around Washington, D.C., but Washington Flyer is the exclusive taxi supplier for the airport, so you only have one choice. It is approximately 28 miles from the airport to the meeting day hotel in Georgetown, and a taxi ride should take about 45 minutes depending on the time of day, costing approximately $85.

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The Graham Georgetown (1075 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, Washington D.C., 20007) at 11:00 AM. Come dressed to ride along with anything else you will need for the day’s ride like personal pedals, saddles, etc. The hotel will store your luggage until check-in after your ride. At the hotel, your host will fit you to your Trek bike and make sure you are comfortable and well prepared for the week ahead. You'll then head out on your bike to begin your adventure in Washington D.C.

If you will be arriving late or are going to miss Day 1 altogether, please call the Trek Bicycle Georgetown store (202-965-3601) and provide them with your expected arrival time and contact details.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at The Graham Georgetown to collect your bike and equipment. From here you may choose to extend your stay in the area or secure a taxi back to Washington Dulles International Airport. We recommend contacting Washington Flyer (703-554-0082) directly as they are the exclusive taxi supplier of Dulles International Airport.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

Spring is a pleasant time to visit D.C., as high temperatures usually average in the high 60s (degrees Fahrenheit). At the same time, weather during this season can be unpredictable, so despite sunny days, you should also be prepared for cool nights and occasional wind and rain. In the summer you can expect average highs in the 80s and 90s with high humidity. As September leads into fall, days will range from the upper-60s to the low-80s on average. Please check the forecast in the days prior to your departure, always be prepared to dress in layers, and bring your rain gear, as rain is always a possibility in this region. Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

Before & After: Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is home to legendary museums, world-class dining, and charming neighborhoods lined with historic row houses. You can fill countless hours in the Smithsonian Institution’s 17 free museums, galleries, and the National Zoo. Here is home to some of the most famous landmarks in America, including the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the Washington Monument. While the city is steeped in history it is also full of wonderful green spaces and trails. Enjoy fresh air in the afternoon strolling city streets and parks then finish your days with world-class dining and crafty beverages made from the cities finest mixologists. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:

Customer Reviews

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the ultra-smooth Trek Domane SL 7 to the Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you deserve the best ride on your vacation. Plus, we offer a range upgrade options to take you the extra mile.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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