How To See the Cherry Blossoms by Bike (Without Dealing with DC Traffic and Crowds)

If you’re like me, you know how much of a pain in the ass DC traffic and crowds can be—especially when it’s cherry blossom season. Trying to drive in, find parking, and then wade through the throngs of people? Nah, I'm good, that's not my idea of fun or a good time. So, I thought, why not bike in from the C&O Canal Towpath? Here’s how I’d do it. -

(If you have done this, please let me know in the comment section below. I really want to hear about it)

Step 1: Start at Fletcher’s Cove

First off, I’d skip all the parking headaches and start at Fletcher’s Cove. It’s off the beaten path, has plenty of parking, and it’s an easy launch point for the C&O Canal. If you’re driving, just hit this Google Maps link to get there.

Step 2: Hit the C&O Canal Towpath

From Fletcher’s Cove, I’d roll straight onto the C&O Canal. No cars, not many pedestrians in the way, just me, the bike, and a solid, mostly dirt trail next to the Potomac River. It’s very peaceful, and way better than fighting traffic or squeezing into crowded metro stations. It’s about 6 miles to Georgetown, which is the perfect warm-up distance. 

Step 3: Cruise Through Georgetown

Once I hit Georgetown, I’d get off the towpath and ride along Virginia Avenue NW toward the National Mall. This part of the ride is a little more urban, but it’s smooth and quick. Plus, I’m getting closer to the cherry blossoms.

Step 4: End at the Tidal Basin

Finally, I’d roll into the Tidal Basin area where all the cherry blossoms are. No need to stress about parking or finding a spot—you’re already here, and you can lock up your bike at one of the racks. Take your time, enjoy the view, and soak it all in. After all, you’ve earned it.

Total Mileage:

• Fletcher’s Cove to Tidal Basin (One-Way): About 6 miles.

• Round Trip: That’s 12 miles total—easy ride without too much strain.

Where to Park:

• Fletcher’s Cove is the spot to park. It’s simple, it’s free, and it’s close to the trailhead.

• Tidal Basin: Once you’re there, bike racks are available, so you can lock up your ride and enjoy the blossoms.

How to Get There:

• Driving: Just follow that Google Maps link to Fletcher’s Cove.

• Bikes: If you don’t have your own bike, Capital Bikeshare has stations all along the route.

Why This Is Way Better Than Driving:

• No Traffic: Seriously, dealing with DC traffic is brutal. This way, you’re out of the mess entirely.

• Avoid the Crowds: Cherry blossom season brings insane crowds. On a bike, you can cruise past everyone and get right to the blooms without fighting for space.

• Easy Parking: Forget about driving around for 20 minutes looking for parking. Fletcher’s Cove is free and easy, and once you get to the Tidal Basin, you’re all set with bike racks.

So yeah, if I were going to see the cherry blossoms this spring, this is definitely how I’d do it. Skip the hassle, enjoy the ride, and get to the good stuff without the stress.