Whether you're an early-morning jogger, weekend warrior, or road cycling enthusiast, Indian Head and Nanjemoy, Maryland offer wide-open routes, scenic trails, and low-traffic roads ideal for running and biking. From paved greenways to peaceful rural roads, this area in Charles County is a hidden training haven with views of wetlands, forests, and the Potomac River.
Indian Head Rail Trail
Length: 13 miles (one-way) | 26 miles round-trip
Surface: Paved asphalt, 10 feet wide
Trailheads: Indian Head (Mattingly Ave) & White Plains Regional Park
Perfect For: Road biking, long-distance running, 5Ks/10Ks, stroller running
Elevation: Relatively flat, with minor gentle grades
Features:
Scenic woodlands, wetlands, and farmland
Safe from vehicle traffic
Rest areas and benches every few miles
Wildlife sightings: herons, turtles, deer
"A peaceful, uninterrupted ride or run across Charles County — ideal for distance training or casual outings."
Rural Road Cycling – Nanjemoy Loop
Route Example: Riverside Rd > Liverpool Point Rd > Port Tobacco Rd
Distance Options: 10 to 40+ mile loops
Best For: Road cyclists, gravel bikers, endurance riders
Scenery:
Quiet tree-lined roads
Farmland and riverside views
Light vehicle traffic, wide shoulders in some areas
Start Point Suggestion: Friendship Landing or Mallows Bay for scenic breaks
“A classic country ride with postcard views and minimal interruptions.”
Short Running Loops in Indian Head
Slavin's Dock to Town Hall Loop: ~1.5 miles round-trip
Water Tower Trail Spur: Small dirt trail loop off the main road
Ideal For: Walkers, joggers, quick sunrise/sunset runs
Surface: Mixed (sidewalk, packed dirt, pavement)
Parking: Free trailhead parking at both ends of Indian Head Rail Trail
Water & Restrooms: Available at White Plains, Mattingly Ave trailheads
Bike Racks: Available at Mattingly Park and Slavin’s Dock
Pet-Friendly: Dogs welcome on leash along trails
Indian Head Rail Trail 5K/10K (Annual)
Typically held in spring/fall – family-friendly event with race timing and aid stations
Charles County Triathlon/Duathlon Events
Uses parts of the rail trail and local waterways
Group Rides & Fun Runs
Occasionally hosted by Charles County Recreation & Parks or local fitness clubs
🗓️ Check charlescountyparks.com for upcoming events
Local Shops (Nearby):
Port Tobacco Marina (limited accessories)
Waldorf area bike shops (full service)
No rentals on-site — Bring your own bike or rent in nearby metro areas
Start Early: Beat the heat and enjoy quiet mornings on the Rail Trail
Hydrate: Limited water refill points along the trail — bring a bottle
Check the Wind: Especially for cyclists on long out-and-back rides
Respect Nature: Trails pass through sensitive wildlife zones
Indian Head Trailhead: Mattingly Ave, Indian Head, MD
White Plains Trailhead: 10145 Billingsley Rd, White Plains, MD
Friendship Landing (Nanjemoy): 2550 Riverside Rd, Nanjemoy, MD
Road Conditions: Generally paved, quiet, with wide shoulders in key cycling corridors
Charles County Recreation & Parks: charlescountyparks.com | (301) 932-3470
Town of Indian Head: townofindianhead.org | (301) 743-5511
Strava Heatmap: Search for “Indian Head, MD” to view popular local segments