Custis Trail Alternative

[pfunkallstar]

With the fair-weather folk flocking these days, any ideas on getting around the Custis Cluster? I usually start out around Metro Center and then head Custis to W&OD, but with 70 degree days ahead I think things are going to get messy clogged. This morning I noticed a number of super clean bikes and new clothes – so I’m up for trying something new this afternoon.

Topic

[pfunkallstar]

Since the weather has be GORGEOUS I’ve been taking the hybrid route home for the past couple of days and have to admit that 16th street in from of Virginia Hospital Center is pretty miserable. Crossing Glebe is dangerous as hell and 16th street is in rough shape. I’ve started jumping over to the Custis trail just before Glebe, which makes for a nice ride to Falls Church.

[JeffC]

I think the hills on the alternate westbound are a bit worse than the Custis Trail. However, once you no longer need your cue sheet (because you have internalized the route) and you factor in that you don’t have to stop all the time for peds, I think the route is easier. I agree that the worst spot in general is 16th St, pavement is kind of bad. However, in general I think the streets are smoother than the Custis Trail, only a few parts of which have been recently repaved.

I still ask myself, what is so attractive to walkers and runners about the Custis? Most of it is next to a freeway! I would never walk/jog along that unless the other choices were really bad.

[sjclaeys]

While riding home on Key Blvd tonight, it struck how quiet it is not being on the Custis next to 66. Another reason to stay off of the trail.

[pfunkallstar]

The noise thing is incredible, even trucking through Rossyln it is noticeably quieter.

[Author]

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