BWI Trail

The BWI Trail offers families a scenic 12.5-mile paved loop around Baltimore-Washington International Airport that's perfect for bike rides, scooter adventures, and stroller walks. Kids love watching planes take off and land overhead while getting outdoor exercise, making it an exciting alternative to typical neighborhood walks or park paths.

• ✓Watching commercial planes take off and land from incredibly close vantage points
• ✓Smooth, well-maintained 12.5-mile paved loop suitable for all skill levels
• ✓Multiple access points with parking for flexible distance options
• ✓Wide trail accommodates bikes, scooters, strollers, and walkers comfortably
• ✓Educational opportunity to learn about aviation and aircraft types

1. 1.Park at the Dorsey Road trailhead for easy access with bathrooms and ample parking,it's the most family-friendly starting point
2. 2.Bring binoculars or use flight tracker apps to identify planes with kids, turning the ride into an aviation learning adventure
3. 3.Visit on weekday mornings for fewer cyclists and joggers, making it safer for younger or wobbly riders
4. 4.The trail can be windy near the runways,bring light jackets even on warm days
5. 5.You don't need to complete the full 12.5 miles; out-and-back rides of 2-4 miles work great for younger children

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for cycling. Weekday mornings (9am-11am) provide lighter trail traffic and peak flight activity for plane-watching. Avoid summer afternoons when the exposed trail offers little shade.

The trail is completely free with multiple access points and parking areas. Restrooms are available at some trailheads but not along the route, so plan accordingly. The paved surface is excellent for strollers and training wheels.

Open year-round, though winter can be cold and windy due to the open terrain. Trail is plowed after snow but may take a day or two. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather with beautiful foliage in autumn. Summer requires sun protection as much of the trail is exposed.

Ledo Pizza on Dorsey Road (about 5 minutes away) offers family-friendly Italian fare, while Chick-fil-A on Aviation Boulevard provides quick, kid-approved meals close to several trailheads.