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Bethesda Trolley Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 38 Google reviews · Running trail in North Bethesda, Maryland · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Bethesda Trolley Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Bethesda Trolley Trail
“A gorgeous trail that makes you feel like you have escaped the city for a little while.”
“Great trail for walking, running, biking, or walking your dog.”
A heavily trafficked paved trail, but it's beautiful. Great for walking, running, biking, etc. This trailhead begins near Whole Foods and heads south eventually crossing Tuckerman and 470 before joining with a residential street that serves as a trail extension via sidewalk to additional trail sections.
All in all good experience. Paved trail. A little crowded at first but after about 10 -15 mins it clears out a bit. I entered the trail in North Bethesda. It does go through neighborhoods where you will be walking on sidewalks...I prefer a trail that doesn't go onto regular streets- but it wasn't a deal breaker.
Beautiful trail especially in summer/fall. I have yet to experience it in the spring but it's well maintained and peaceful it can be a bit dark in areas at night so I'd recommend a head lamp or flashlight at night. friendly people and pets.
Great trail for walking, running, biking, or walking your dog. It can be a bit hard to follow at times when a road or neighbourhood breaks it apart. Would recommend consulting the map first time you go. FYI that it also gets buggy in Spring and Summer.
Trail conditions & character
“A gorgeous trail that makes you feel like you have escaped the city for a little while.”
“A heavily trafficked paved trail, but it's beautiful.”
Plan your run at Bethesda Trolley Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near North Bethesda
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Aspen Hill Local Park
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Matthew Henson State Park
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Croydon Creek Nature Center
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Nature preserve featuring hiking trails and interactive playground with animal exhibits.