Bike Ride: Adelphi, MD to Anacostia, DC. 8 of 9.

Paint Branch Trail (Prince George's County) Description Prince George's County's Paint Branch Trail (not to be confused with Montgomery County's Paint Branch Trail farther north) runs for 4 miles between Lake Artemesia and Cherry Hill Road Community Park in the Washington, DC, suburb of College Park. About the Route The southern end of the Paint Branch Trail begins at scenic Lake Artemesia, where it can connect directly with the Indian Creek Trail, Lake Artemesia Trail, and Northeast Branch Trail. Heading west, the trail exits the Lake Artemesia Natural Area at its southwest corner, where it travels under Washington Metro railroad tracks and enters a wooded area in Paint Branch Stream Valley Park. A direct connection to the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail can be found here. After crossing busy US-1/Baltimore Ave (the route briefly splits and has two options, so trail users can travel under the road or cross it), the trail curves north and continues past the eastern edge of the main campus of the University of Maryland. Soon the trail reenters a heavily-wooded landscape, passes under University Boulevard/State Route 193 and skirts the edge of the Paint Branch Golf Course. Continuing north to Cherry Hill Road Community Park where the trail connects to the Little Paint Branch Trail, which continues under the Beltway and north to Little Paint Branch Park. Connections The trail is a part of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which provides miles of off-road paved paths along the various branches of the Anacostia River. At its northern end on Cherry Hill Road, the trail connects to the Little Paint Branch Trail. At its southern end, the trail connects to the Indian Creek Trail, Lake Artemesia Trail, and Northeast Branch Trail. Heading west from the lake, the trail connects to the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail in Paint Branch Stream Valley Park. Parking and Trail Access The Paint Branch Trail in Prince George's County runs between Lake Artemesia (off Pierce Ave, College Park) and Cherry Hill Road Community Park (4620 Cherry Hill Rd, College Park), where there is parking. Parking is available at: Acredale Community Park, 4200 Metzerott Rd (College Park) College Park Community Center, 5051 Pierce Ave (College Park). The Anacostia River Trail is a fantastic option for biking, offering a scenic and well-maintained path along the Anacostia River in Washington, D.C., and parts of Maryland. Here are some key details for cyclists: • Distance: ~20 miles (loop and connected trails) • Difficulty: Easy to moderate (mostly flat with some gentle inclines) • Surface: Paved, 10-12 feet wide, suitable for all bike types • Best for: Road bikes, hybrid bikes, and recreational cycling Trail Highlights for Cyclists 🚴 Smooth, Scenic Ride – The trail follows the river with beautiful water views, bridges, and green spaces. 🌳 Connects to Other Trails – It links to the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, expanding your ride into Prince George’s County, MD. ⚾ Passes Major Landmarks – Bike past Nationals Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and the National Arboretum. 🚲 Bike-Friendly Amenities – Bike racks, repair stations, and rest stops available along the route. Best Entry Points for Biking 1. Anacostia Park (Good starting point with parking) 2. Navy Yard / Yards Park (Great for food and a city ride) 3. Bladensburg Waterfront Park (For an extended ride into Maryland) Pro Tips for Cyclists ✔ Go Early – The trail can get crowded, especially on weekends. ✔ Check for Flooding – Some low-lying sections may be affected after heavy rain. ✔ Bring Water & Snacks – While there are some shops along the way, options are limited in certain sections. ✔ Be Mindful of Pedestrians – The trail is multi-use, so keep a moderate speed and announce when passing. BE SAFE AND ENJOY.