Cumberland to Hanover early October
- + This talk of closures. Ten of us are doing Cumberland to Hanover, with a shuttle in Hanover to bring us back again for a same-day ride.
If there are closures, we would be delayed meeting our prearr...
Discussion started 08/26/25 10:07:58 PM by MY in NoVA - 2 replies (last reply by Rivnuts at 08/28/25 7:51:59 AM)MY in NoVA from Fairfax on 08/26/25 10:07:58 PM
This talk of closures. Ten of us are doing Cumberland to Hanover, with a shuttle in Hanover to bring us back again for a same-day ride.
If there are closures, we would be delayed meeting our prearranged shuttle.
What is the likelihood of one or more closures between Cumberland and Hanover in early October? Many thanks for the expertise on this board.
MY in NoVA from Fairfax on 08/26/25 10:14:26 PM
I’m sorry, that’s a correction: Cumberland to Hancock
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 08/28/25 7:51:59 AM
I believe the closures you may be referring to are on the GAP Trail and not the C&O Towpath. The only detour, not closure, on the Towpath between Hancock and Cumberland is at Polly Pond Creek where the bridge is out. There is a detour using the Western Maryland Rail Trail paralleling the Towpath. That detour should not impact your arrival schedule for your shuttle.
Is Leesburg VA accessible?
- + Is there any way to get to Leesburg VA by bike from the C&O trail (Poolesville area)? I know there used to be a ferry, but how can we cross the Potomac now?
Discussion started 08/22/25 8:59:20 PM by GN - 2 replies (last reply by WKR at 08/23/25 7:31:45 PM)GN on 08/22/25 8:59:20 PM
Is there any way to get to Leesburg VA by bike from the C&O trail (Poolesville area)? I know there used to be a ferry, but how can we cross the Potomac now?
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 08/23/25 5:30:20 AM
This question has been raised on this forum on several occasions. The short answer is no unless you can locate a shuttle service to come get you on the Towpath and take you to Leesburg. An adventurous sole could cross the river in Harpers Ferry, wind their way uphill on roads to Purcellville and ride the W&OD Trail to Leesburg and continue to DC on that Trail. I’ve done that but do’t recommend it for most riders.
WKR from Brunswick, MD on 08/23/25 7:31:45 PM
I would go to Brunswick, cross the Potomac there, and head to the W&OD. The bridge over the Potomac and the bit on Berlin Tpke may be uncomfortable, car-wise, for people who aren't accustomed to riding on the road (total distance for this bit is under 1.5 miles). Although Berlin Tpke takes you all the way to Purcellville where you can hop on the W&OD it's a 55mph road without much of a shoulder so I wouldn't go that way (even as an experienced road rider). You can take the first right off of Berlin Tpke onto Tollhouse Rd to get away from most of the traffic and then take backroads to Purcellville instead. That's what I would do.
Detour and Shuttle
- + I am doing the GAP and C&O in early September. Previous posts mention the GAP is closed due to landslide and that Shuttles have been running. Is this still the case?
Thanks.
Discussion started 08/21/25 9:06:23 PM by Lukey - 3 replies (last reply by J.M. at 08/23/25 4:53:10 PM)Lukey on 08/21/25 9:06:23 PM
I am doing the GAP and C&O in early September. Previous posts mention the GAP is closed due to landslide and that Shuttles have been running. Is this still the case?
Thanks.
Cathy from Churchill on 08/22/25 1:09:38 AM
Scroll just a little bit lower on this forum and you'll find a discussion about the closure due to the landslide and shuttles. I think the shuttles are expected to run through 10/1/25. It is covered in depth in that thread.
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 08/23/25 5:19:48 AM
It has been reported that the shuttles will be offered AT LEAST through October 1 if a full evaluation and remedies are not completed before then.
J.M. on 08/23/25 4:53:10 PM
I biked through that area last week. Short answer is that the 7-mile landslide area is barricaded due to terrain instability (not current condition of the trail), and the shuttles aren't always reliable. I arrived at the shuttle stop at 4:30 pm last Saturday, and later learned the last shuttle of the day had departed 15 minutes earlier at 4:15 pm. Best to have a "plan B".
C&O towpath closures in Georgetown
- + For those starting or ending a C&O Canal ride in Georgetown, there are several closures in the last mile. I recommend adding a bit of time to your plans for your zeal to get your journey started or en...
Discussion started 08/12/25 11:31:12 AM by Straus Guide 1980 - 2 replies (last reply by Straus Guide 1980 at 08/14/25 7:24:57 PM)Straus Guide 1980 from Thornton, CO on 08/12/25 11:31:12 AM
For those starting or ending a C&O Canal ride in Georgetown, there are several closures in the last mile. I recommend adding a bit of time to your plans for your zeal to get your journey started or ended.
Those are not shown on the C&O Canal NHP site at:
https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
Several sections of the towpath are closed for reconstruction. There are detour signs.
There is an overview of the Georgetown area projects at:
https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/construction-updates-georgetown.htm
but that's out of date and doesn't have block by block details or pictures of the detours.
You can go up the Rock Creek Parkway trail / sidewalk to get to the point where the towpath ends at Rock Creek and then originally headed down to the terminal lock (of Watergate fame) at the Mile 0 marker.
You can bypass all of that using the Capital Crescent rail to trail but then you miss the unique features of the canal route through Georgetown.
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 08/13/25 3:18:40 PM
The original post rings true as I’ve ceased trying to ride the towpath all the way into Georgetown with a fully-loaded bike. While it is typically quite busy, the paved Capital Crescent Trail is my preferred route into town toward Milepost 0. I would suggest that if you want to see/follow the Towpath all the way to its end in DC, just take some time and walk along the last stretch and its detours) before finishing or starting your ride.
Straus Guide 1980 from Thornton, CO on 08/14/25 7:24:54 PM
Update: Searching a bit more, I found a page with a detailed map at:
https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/repairs-to-locks-1-2-5-inlet-lock-1-and-georgetown-walls.htm
The alternative Capital Crescent trail actually ends as it crosses under the Alexandria Aqueduct remains and Key Bridge at the left of that labeled satellite view. The remaining alternate route is actually a two-way bike lane on the K Street under the elevated Whitehurst Freeway and then a parallel path.
Rivnut has a great suggestion to walk the open sections of the towpath if you have time.
Landslide Closes GAP Trail Section (Shuttle Info)
- + Somerset County has closed the Great Allegheny Passage between Rockwood and Markleton due to an active landslide triggered by recent heavy rain and high winds. There is no detour.
The Great Al...
Discussion started 06/24/25 6:20:21 PM by John W. - 7 replies (last reply by Rivnuts at 08/13/25 8:59:23 PM)John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 06/24/25 6:20:21 PM
Somerset County has closed the Great Allegheny Passage between Rockwood and Markleton due to an active landslide triggered by recent heavy rain and high winds. There is no detour.
The Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy has arranged and is underwriting a free shuttle for bicyclists and hikers between the Rockwood and Markleton trail access points from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Tuesday, June 24, Wednesday, June 25, and Thursday, June 26.
Many thanks to Allegheny Trail House and Bill's Car Service and Transport for providing these shuttles. The shuttles will be first-come, first-served; please be patient as there may be waits of 30-45 minutes.
https://gaptrail.org/updates/
John
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 06/25/25 11:16:37 PM
Also for Friday and beyond:
“As of this writing, a quick solution appears unlikely. For those planning thru-trips on Friday, June 27 and beyond, please contact one of these shuttle services to arrange a shuttle around this closed segment.”
Allegheny Trail House and 2 Wheel Escapes.
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 07/12/25 6:25:07 PM
Update of shuttles between Rockwood and Markelton:
“Since Friday, June 27, fee-based continuous daily shuttle service has been running between Rockwood and Markleton from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week, until July 15. In Rockwood, look for the shuttle in the parking lot next to the welcome center. In Markleton, look for the the shuttle in the adjacent parking lot, which has shade and restrooms. The shuttle fee per person/bike combo is $20. This fee can be paid via cash (preferred) or credit card directly to the shuttle driver. The shuttles are first-come, first-served; please be patient as there may be waits of 30-45 minutes.”
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 07/13/25 9:46:06 AM
Thanks for that info John
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 07/15/25 4:44:20 AM
Service has been extended through at least July 20.
JM on 07/19/25 8:54:27 AM
Shuttle now through 8/1 (to be updated).
https://gaptrail.org/trail-alert/closure-between-rockwood-and-markleton/?utm_source=Great+Allegheny+Passage+News+and+Alerts&utm_campaign=e9f7764e97-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_07_01_10_41&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-e9f7764e97-380007033&mc_cid=e9f7764e97&mc_eid=6b8e81a88a
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 07/31/25 3:57:34 AM
The shuttle has been extended through at least August 31 or upon the segment reopening, whichever comes first.
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 08/13/25 8:59:23 PM
This shuttle has now been extended through at least October 1 or upon this segment reopening, whichever comes first.
Rockwood Trail House in Rockwood
- + Quiet!!! Far enough from the rrtrax for a great night sleep. We love this place and continue to return each time we bicycle C&OGAP, and each time we notice updates - to the accommodations; to the brea...
Discussion started 07/28/25 2:39:54 PM by DandZ - 0 repliesDandZ from Florida on 07/28/25 2:39:54 PM
Quiet!!! Far enough from the rrtrax for a great night sleep. We love this place and continue to return each time we bicycle C&OGAP, and each time we notice updates - to the accommodations; to the breakfast and to the bicycle gear bin. And, right next door to a bicycle shop (fortunately, our bikes didn't need anything). Even tho this is a self service b&b, we were easily in contact with April who answered all of our questions. Not a detail was missed - delicious cookies welcomed us; a huge kitchen stocked with a full range of food to satisfy the pickiest of eaters. The coffee is roasted locally and delicious (full body; not your clear office coffee). There's a lot of room in the house to move about. The covered back porch makes a great place to chill. In addition to storing several bicycles. We'll be back.
Fairfield Inn & Suites in Cumberland
- + We were booked into this hotel , but we had to cancel because of schedule problems, and had to cancel wheelzup shuttle back to our truck. This hotel is right on the trail. and very nice, wheelzup is a...
Discussion started 07/26/25 2:07:31 PM by Terry Walker - 1 reply (last reply by Cathy at 07/27/25 1:21:27 AM)Terry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 2:07:31 PM
We were booked into this hotel , but we had to cancel because of schedule problems, and had to cancel wheelzup shuttle back to our truck. This hotel is right on the trail. and very nice, wheelzup is a block away. And does an excellent job. We only had one hour in CUMBERLAND, so we went to DIG DEEP BREWING, on the trail THEY HAD THE LOBSTER TRUCK , we only had time for a beer, it was great, dam we didn't have time to eat lobster, had to catch a new shuttle back to my truck that was now in Meyersdale instead of West Homestead , we did out and backs all the way to Meyersdale moving the truck each day. Yes flooding, washouts, thunder storms, and a trail closing between Markelton and Rockwood 6 miles changed our plans, We also didn't do out and back from West Homestead to Pittsburgh 8 mile each way. All in all we rode well over 200 miles on a 150 mile trail. Because we had my truck most of the way we were able to add several side trips. FLIGHT 93 MEMORIAL , waterfalls in ohiopyle, slide rock, a country restaurant 3 miles north of Rockwood. Brewery in Rockwood.
Cathy from Churchill on 07/27/25 1:21:27 AM
Terry thank you for all your great reviews and details. I'll be using them for my next adventure on the Gap. Sounds like you had a couple of hiccups, but overall a successful trip.
Take Six Pizza & Subs in Meyersdale
- + We started out planning on staying at LEVI DEAL HOUSE, HIGH END AND THE FAMOUS DONGES DRIVE IN. But we opted for THE INN ON MAIN, ONE OF THE 4 BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THE WHOLE TRAIL We were told THE W...
Discussion started 07/26/25 1:02:42 PM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 1:02:42 PM
We started out planning on staying at LEVI DEAL HOUSE, HIGH END AND THE FAMOUS DONGES DRIVE IN. But we opted for THE INN ON MAIN, ONE OF THE 4 BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THE WHOLE TRAIL We were told THE WHITE HOUSE WAS THE BEST PLACES TO EAT. BUT DIDNT GO.
So we ended up first at FRANS a locals place, was over taken by smoke and never made it in the door. headed for donges drive in , they didn't have beer, so we ended up at TAKE SIX PIZZA AND SUBS, A LOCALS PLACE the food was really good the beer choice really good and cold. Yes the bar tender, waitress, and cook all took two minute smoke breaks, but the service was just fine. We all need a break at work, and it is the law. Riding up hill from take six or donges would be very hard.
i saw several pro riders run out of gas on this hill. We have EBIKES, NO PROBLEM ALL . We will go to the WHITE HOUSE FOR DINNER next time, per advice from inn keeper MOE.
Smith House Inn in Confluence
- + We did not stay at The Smith house, The Parker house but several fellow riders really like them. Also not listed on this page is THE RIVERS EDGE BED AND BREAKFAST AND CAFE, heard great things about th...
Discussion started 07/26/25 12:07:44 PM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 12:07:44 PM
We did not stay at The Smith house, The Parker house but several fellow riders really like them. Also not listed on this page is THE RIVERS EDGE BED AND BREAKFAST AND CAFE, heard great things about this place. Went for lunch, boom ,best sandwich on the whole trail. wow. two blocks from riverveiw kitchenettes , that we rated as one of the 4 best places to stay on the whole trail.
Mitch’s Fuel & Food in Confluence
- + We didn't eat here , but several other bikers said it was good and cheap, and fast, clean. Will try next time.
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:44:21 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:44:21 AM
We didn't eat here , but several other bikers said it was good and cheap, and fast, clean. Will try next time.
Kickstand Ice cream Shop in Ohiopyle
- + NOT LISTED AS AN OPTION, BUT NEXT DOOR TO TO ICE CREAM SHOP IS TWISTED, A BAR WITH FOOD. RIGHT ON THE TRAIL, EVERYONE COMING OFF THE TRAIL WAS ASKING, WHERE CAN WE GET A BEER, THEY HAVE SEVERAL GOOD B...
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:36:39 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:36:39 AM
NOT LISTED AS AN OPTION, BUT NEXT DOOR TO TO ICE CREAM SHOP IS TWISTED, A BAR WITH FOOD. RIGHT ON THE TRAIL, EVERYONE COMING OFF THE TRAIL WAS ASKING, WHERE CAN WE GET A BEER, THEY HAVE SEVERAL GOOD BEERS, NOT JUST THE NORNAL BORING BEERS.Sorry for listing this under the best ice cream shop on the trail
The Yough Plaza Motel in Ohiopyle
- + THIS PLACE IS OHIOPYLE SUITES, GOOD PLACE TO REST , CAN CHARGE E BIKES IN YOUR ROOM, HAS A COFFEE AND CONT BREAKFAST TO GO ROOM ,LAUNDRY, BIKE RAMP, PARKING, NEXT TO COFFEE SHOP, ICE CREAM SHOP, TRAIL...
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:20:37 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:20:37 AM
THIS PLACE IS OHIOPYLE SUITES, GOOD PLACE TO REST , CAN CHARGE E BIKES IN YOUR ROOM, HAS A COFFEE AND CONT BREAKFAST TO GO ROOM ,LAUNDRY, BIKE RAMP, PARKING, NEXT TO COFFEE SHOP, ICE CREAM SHOP, TRAIL HEAD, RIVER IS I BLOCK WITH HIGH BRIGDE.
Kickstand Ice cream Shop in Ohiopyle
- + GREAT ICE CREAM SHOP, MUST GO, INSIDE OR OUTSIDE SEATING. We ride for ice cream, pie, donuts, coffee ,beer, wine, booz right next to trail head.
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:13:10 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:13:10 AM
GREAT ICE CREAM SHOP, MUST GO, INSIDE OR OUTSIDE SEATING. We ride for ice cream, pie, donuts, coffee ,beer, wine, booz right next to trail head.
Falls Market Restaurant & Inn in Ohiopyle
- + Good food , right where all the action is, nice supply store.
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:08:33 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:08:33 AM
Good food , right where all the action is, nice supply store.
O'Donnell's Pub in Connellsville
- + Good food, locals like this place, full bar, inside and outside seating.
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:04:44 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:04:44 AM
Good food, locals like this place, full bar, inside and outside seating.
Kickstand Kitchen in Connellsville
- + Good lunch, walk 3 block from Comfort inn.
Discussion started 07/26/25 11:01:33 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 11:01:33 AM
Good lunch, walk 3 block from Comfort inn.
Hampton Inn & Suites Waterfront in Homestead
- + Nice place to stay, week long parking free, eat at BURGATORY.
Discussion started 07/26/25 10:58:09 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/26/25 10:58:09 AM
Nice place to stay, week long parking free, eat at BURGATORY.
Store at Poolesville
- + The store at mile 22.9 (.8 miles off the trail)out of Washington DC called Poole's store on the planner guide no longer sells groceries or drinks. It is now an agricultural feed store only. I stopped ...
Discussion started 07/25/25 7:59:15 AM by John Fiorella - 1 reply (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 07/25/25 9:46:02 AM)John Fiorella from Philadelphia Pa on 07/25/25 7:59:15 AM
The store at mile 22.9 (.8 miles off the trail)out of Washington DC called Poole's store on the planner guide no longer sells groceries or drinks. It is now an agricultural feed store only. I stopped there on 7/17/2025.
Ray (webmaster) on 07/25/25 9:46:02 AM
Thank you for the heads-up on that!
Agricultural supplies aren't very useful for trail users :-), so I have dropped it from the listings.
The Inn on Main Bed and Breakfast in Meyersdale
- + WOW, WOW WOW, GREAT ROOM , GREAT BREAKFAST, GREAT BIKE BARN WITH KEY PAD AND ELECTRIC TO CHARGE E BIKES, HAD A COLD BEER AND SEVERAL OTHER DRINKS CHILLED AND WAITING FOR US, free WOW, THE SHOWER WAS ...
Discussion started 07/23/25 12:06:58 AM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker from CENTRAL ILLINOIS on 07/23/25 12:06:58 AM
WOW, WOW WOW, GREAT ROOM , GREAT BREAKFAST, GREAT BIKE BARN WITH KEY PAD AND ELECTRIC TO CHARGE E BIKES, HAD A COLD BEER AND SEVERAL OTHER DRINKS CHILLED AND WAITING FOR US, free WOW, THE SHOWER WAS THE BEST ON THE TRAIL. The inn is right at the trail head, The owners is friends with the air steam guy next door, sleeps two, and YODERS who can take in larger groups. Thanks MOE AND HIS FRIEND CHUCK from YODERS for the great shuttle back to MEYERSDALE from CUMBERLAND. So ride 34.4 to BRIGHT MORNING B AND B, RIDE 25.4 TO COMFORT INN, RIDE 27.3 TO RIVER VIEW KITCHENETTES, RIDE 29. 7 TO THE INN ON MAIN, RIDE 32. 1 TO CUMBERLAND AND SHUTTLE BACK TO PITTSBURGH. There are dozens of places to stay and eat and drink on the trail, but these 4 places stood out and graded out as the best of the best. OH did i mention the yogurt covered with berries and granola were top
notch. You made our day. We also made stops in West Homestead, Ohiopyle and Rockwood which were just fine. We are an over 75 couple on e bikes, had to park the specialized and cannonade and trek road bikes a few years ago. there are few hills we can't climb on our e bikes.
River View Kitchenettes in Confluence
- + One of the better places to stay in confluence, The Be Happy room and Don't Worry room are very nice, I think the hundred buck we paid is the best deal on the trail, and worth a lot more money.It does...
Discussion started 07/22/25 10:27:12 PM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker on 07/22/25 10:27:12 PM
One of the better places to stay in confluence, The Be Happy room and Don't Worry room are very nice, I think the hundred buck we paid is the best deal on the trail, and worth a lot more money.It doesn't have breakfast, but has good coffee, It has a nice covered deck with 4 outlets to charge our Bikes. And patio 4 seater and swing also on the deck. Some bikers went to Mitch's for breakfast, also under priced and good food. We were looking for something other than sausage and eggs. So we rode a couple block past Mitch's to a very nice store , bought 4 banana nut muffins that were fresh and great. We also bought an apple, bag of cheese popcorn and a bag of pretzels. total bill 7 bucks. No need for breakfast at Riverview kitchenettes There is another B and b two blocks away that has a before 5 and after 5 menu at the attached restaurant, my wife and i had the best lunch sandwiches on the whole trail. LIFE IS BETTER IN CONFLUENCE. LOVED OUR STAY.
Comfort Inn Connellsville in Connellsville
- + One of the nicest hotels on the trail, room was great, breakfast good, bike wash good, location good, has a bar or go next door for beer, wine, cocktails and food. Very nice lobby with lemon water. Th...
Discussion started 07/22/25 9:32:04 PM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker on 07/22/25 9:32:04 PM
One of the nicest hotels on the trail, room was great, breakfast good, bike wash good, location good, has a bar or go next door for beer, wine, cocktails and food. Very nice lobby with lemon water. This is not a cut rate hotel or mid level hotel. IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO STAY, right on to the trail and right on the water.Real bikers stay here!
Bright Morning Bed & Breakfast in West Newton
- + Very nice place to rest and a great breakfast, One of the top 3 bed and breakfast on the whole trail. 34 miles east of Pittsburgh, perfect place to recharge our Ebikes.
Discussion started 07/22/25 9:16:10 PM by Terry Walker - 0 repliesTerry Walker on 07/22/25 9:16:10 PM
Very nice place to rest and a great breakfast, One of the top 3 bed and breakfast on the whole trail. 34 miles east of Pittsburgh, perfect place to recharge our Ebikes.
- + Thanks John
Discussion started 07/13/25 5:31:10 AM by Rivnuts - 0 repliesRivnuts from Homestead,PA on 07/13/25 5:31:10 AM
Thanks John
Donges Drive In & Motel in Meyersdale
- + Spent the night 6/4. Nice visitor center and museum at the trailhead. Had supper at the restaurant, a quiet evening in the room watching baseball, and got a good nights sleep. Close to the Sheetz gas ...
Discussion started 06/16/25 11:20:16 PM by JeffT - 1 reply (last reply by Terry at 07/02/25 12:43:39 PM)JeffT from Terre Haute on 06/16/25 11:20:16 PM
Spent the night 6/4. Nice visitor center and museum at the trailhead. Had supper at the restaurant, a quiet evening in the room watching baseball, and got a good nights sleep. Close to the Sheetz gas station which had everything I needed for my last day riding to Cumberland. A little bit of a climb to get back to the trail, but I was in no hurry.
Terry from Baltimore on 07/02/25 12:43:39 PM
Thanks for your reports, JeffT. I appreciate that you go to the effort for these posts. I like Donges Motel. Very old school, but it serves the purpose quite well and is well located for other things you might want-at a very good price. BTW, most of the other sleeping spots require that you climb that hill to get back to the trail.
Coping with White's Ferry Closure
- + This forum badly needs a search function, so I apologize if this has been addressed before. I don't have time to scroll through 121 pages.
Is there a vehicle service or hotel anywhere that will pi...
Discussion started 06/10/25 3:48:15 PM by Barticuskastorianus - 2 replies (last reply by WKR at 06/17/25 4:12:48 PM)Barticuskastorianus from Ligonier, PA on 06/10/25 3:48:15 PM
This forum badly needs a search function, so I apologize if this has been addressed before. I don't have time to scroll through 121 pages.
Is there a vehicle service or hotel anywhere that will pick you up at White's Ferry, take you to a hotel, then bring you back in the morning?
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 06/10/25 10:48:22 PM
Back when rhe ferry was still running several of the Leesburg hotels would provide shuttle service from the Virginia side of the river to the hotels. I don’t know whether they’ll make their way to the Maryland side to pick you up or not. Hopefully another forum participant can answer your question.
WKR from Brunswick, MD on 06/17/25 4:12:48 PM
The new bike shop in Brunswick, Bridgeway Bikes, is now offering shuttle service.
Rock City Express in Rockwood
- + Stopped on 6/4, in and out pretty quick with everything I wanted with no problem.
Discussion started 06/16/25 11:14:31 PM by JeffT - 0 repliesJeffT from Terre Haute on 06/16/25 11:14:31 PM
Stopped on 6/4, in and out pretty quick with everything I wanted with no problem.
Outflow Campground in Confluence
- + Camped the night of 6/3. Hot showers at the campground and easy access to Mitch's, Dollar General, and the grocery store. Outflow for the Yough Lake was noisy, but still a good stop.
Discussion started 06/16/25 11:11:51 PM by JeffT - 0 repliesJeffT from Terre Haute on 06/16/25 11:11:51 PM
Camped the night of 6/3. Hot showers at the campground and easy access to Mitch's, Dollar General, and the grocery store. Outflow for the Yough Lake was noisy, but still a good stop.
Martin's in Connellsville
- + Go right at the Connellsville trailhead just before you start down the hill to get to Marin's (150 yards off the trail). Pretty much everything you could look for in a grocery store.
Discussion started 06/16/25 11:04:30 PM by JeffT - 0 repliesJeffT from Terre Haute on 06/16/25 11:04:30 PM
Go right at the Connellsville trailhead just before you start down the hill to get to Marin's (150 yards off the trail). Pretty much everything you could look for in a grocery store.
Roundbottom Campsite in Perryopolis
- + Spent the night 6/2. Had the place all to myself. River was up and running fast and lulled me to sleep. Didn't drown out the rumble from the trains that went by on the other side of the river, but got...
Discussion started 06/16/25 11:01:31 PM by JeffT - 0 repliesJeffT from Terre Haute on 06/16/25 11:01:31 PM
Spent the night 6/2. Had the place all to myself. River was up and running fast and lulled me to sleep. Didn't drown out the rumble from the trains that went by on the other side of the river, but got a good nights sleep. Restroom and a hand pump for water (bring your filter).
Entrance to Point State Park Closed 6/9/25 - 6/11/25
- + The PA DCNR has posted that the entrance to Point State Park from Commonwealth Place in front of the Wyndham Grand Hotel will be closed from 6/9/25 through 6/11/25 for park renovations.
Discussion started 06/05/25 4:45:50 PM by Rivnuts - 0 repliesRivnuts from Homestead,PA on 06/05/25 4:45:50 PM
The PA DCNR has posted that the entrance to Point State Park from Commonwealth Place in front of the Wyndham Grand Hotel will be closed from 6/9/25 through 6/11/25 for park renovations.
GAP Detour - Duquesne to McKeesport Bridge - Cleared
- + The subject detour for milling and repaving has been cleared. Thanks to the Steel Valley Trail Council for this improvement in trail conditions
Discussion started 05/30/25 9:14:04 PM by Rivnuts - 0 repliesRivnuts from Homestead, PA on 05/30/25 9:14:04 PM
The subject detour for milling and repaving has been cleared. Thanks to the Steel Valley Trail Council for this improvement in trail conditions
Old Little Orleans Lodge Property FOR SALE
- + Hello everyone. Steve Huebner, owner of Little Orleans Lodge, passed away in 2021 and the lodge was sold to an unknow buyer. The property is currently for sale and has been totally renovated. https...
Discussion started 05/22/25 4:04:11 PM by John Walker - 0 repliesJohn Walker from Little Orleans on 05/22/25 4:04:11 PM
Hello everyone. Steve Huebner, owner of Little Orleans Lodge, passed away in 2021 and the lodge was sold to an unknow buyer. The property is currently for sale and has been totally renovated. https://www.longandfoster.com/homes-for-sale/12814-Appel-Road-SE-Little-Orleans-MD-21766-405312930
Hopefully someone will purchase the Old School House and there will once again be a place to rest in Little Orleans.
C&O Trail Conditions
- + The trail conditions along the C&O Canal Towpath is a frequent question asked on this forum. I, along with others, have noted that conditions vary quite a lot depending on the weather. With a fair a...
Discussion started 05/13/25 10:00:23 AM by Rivnuts - 4 replies (last reply by Luchs at 05/18/25 3:15:23 PM)Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 05/13/25 10:00:23 AM
The trail conditions along the C&O Canal Towpath is a frequent question asked on this forum. I, along with others, have noted that conditions vary quite a lot depending on the weather. With a fair amount of rain, the C&O can have lots of puddles and mud especially leaving Cumberland MD in route to DC. In the vain of a picture is worth a thousand words, I recommend you watch the following YouTube video that depicts such conditions.
https://youtu.be/2trPOwBGf60?si=taDJPqkuCzszKIOu
For that matter, the entire series of videos of that particular trip depict the trail surfaces on both the C&O and the GAP trails quite well.
D.Moranz from Landrum, SC on 05/14/25 7:50:04 PM
Trail conditions from Cumberland to Hancook… just came into Hancook today after leaving Cumberland Maryland this morning. 12 miles outside of Cumberland going towards Hancock we ran into downed trees and flooding conditions across the trail.
There are a few closures which the park service has workaround for.
We did get on the Western Maryland rail trail, where it joins the C and O as the CNO trail was underwater in many areas. Even the Western Maryland rail trail had a few down trees across it, which were passable..
The western Maryland rail trail goes directly into Hancock.
We plan on taking the western Maryland rail trail from Hancock towards Williamsport tomorrow. It goes to within 10 miles of Williamsport.. we will see what detours are in place when we get there tomorrow.
Mac from Asheville on 05/15/25 6:06:27 PM
Are there any updates from Hancock to Williamsport, Harper’s Ferry?
WKR from Brunswick, MD on 05/17/25 4:40:07 PM
The trail just past harpers ferry (heading south/east) suffered a bit in the recent heavy rains with the canal overflowing across the tow path. There's some washboard erosion and places the top layer has been washed away completely leaving the large bluestone gravel exposed. I've just been through there running and I'm not doing any long runs at the moment but I would assume that more of the tow path has gotten chewed up with the recent flooding.
Luchs from Harpers Ferry on 05/18/25 3:15:23 PM
Harpers Ferry to Shepherdstown is a bit chewed up, but passable. Some downed trees. The trail under the Harpers Ferry bridge is not rideable, you'll have to walk a short bit.
Williams Port Parking
- + I'm visiting Williams Port for the day for work and I'm looking to go for a bike ride on the C&O Trail. What are my parking options?
Discussion started 05/16/25 8:52:07 AM by John G. - 1 reply (last reply by Rivnuts at 05/16/25 9:43:03 AM)John G. from Wilmington, Delaware on 05/16/25 8:52:07 AM
I'm visiting Williams Port for the day for work and I'm looking to go for a bike ride on the C&O Trail. What are my parking options?
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/16/25 9:43:03 AM
You can park yay Cushwa Basin or on the approach to Lockhouse 44. The latter provides the best access to the trail by bicycle. You can see these parking locations in the Google Maps satellite view of that area.
1828 Trail Inn Bed & Breakfast in Hancock
- + They sold a couple years ago, and now the new owners are also retiring. Place unavailable.
Discussion started 05/16/25 8:46:23 AM by Charles Getty - 0 repliesCharles Getty from Vienna, VA on 05/16/25 8:46:23 AM
They sold a couple years ago, and now the new owners are also retiring. Place unavailable.
1878 Riverun in Hancock
- + Best Hidden Gem on the GAP/C&O!
Stayed April 2025 | 5 Stars
I’m a cyclist riding the Great Allegheny Passage to the C&O Canal Trail from Pittsburgh to D.C., and I’ve stayed in a lot of spots along...
Discussion started 05/16/25 8:34:28 AM by John Windsor - 0 repliesJohn Windsor from Austin, Texas on 05/16/25 8:34:28 AM
Best Hidden Gem on the GAP/C&O!
Stayed April 2025 | 5 Stars
I’m a cyclist riding the Great Allegheny Passage to the C&O Canal Trail from Pittsburgh to D.C., and I’ve stayed in a lot of spots along the way — but 1878 River Run in Hancock, MD absolutely blew me away.
This place just opened up, and it’s already one of the best stays I’ve had on any tour. It’s a peaceful, charming, beautifully restored home with all the comfort and character you want after a long day on the trail. Secure bike storage, clean everything, and hosts who genuinely care about making your stay great.
It’s so perfectly located right off the trail, I almost didn’t believe my luck. Honestly, once more riders find out about this place, it’s going to be nearly impossible to book — especially when the tour companies get word. They’ll be reserving it a year out.
If you're riding solo, make sure you grab a night here while you can. This is the kind of spot that makes the whole journey even more worth it.
storm damage Gap
- + This is a copy and paste I just got and want to pass on to everyone.
Storms Damage GAP from Meyersdale to Cumberland
Heavy rainfall between May 12 and 14 resulted in ponding water, deep ruts,...
Discussion started 05/14/25 6:00:21 PM by oldspoke - 1 reply (last reply by Mac at 05/15/25 6:04:23 PM)oldspoke from Brick,N.J. on 05/14/25 6:00:21 PM
This is a copy and paste I just got and want to pass on to everyone.
Storms Damage GAP from Meyersdale to Cumberland
Heavy rainfall between May 12 and 14 resulted in ponding water, deep ruts, downed trees, clogged culverts, and multiple washed-out trail surfaces along some sections of the Great Allegheny Passage between Meyersdale and Cumberland. Some trail access points, like the one at Deal, show signs of flooding. Expect slow and bumpy conditions while crews continue to inspect, inventory, and determine the extent of damage. The GAP remains open, but please travel cautiously. Dismount and walk your bike if need be. Click here for updates.
Be careful out there.
Mac from Asheville on 05/15/25 6:04:23 PM
Minor rutting at best.
Flooding????
- + Currently on my way to DC. Arrived with the rain in Rockwood this afternoon. I understand there is/may be flooding and flash flooding. Looks like there are evacuations road closures around Meyersdale ...
Discussion started 05/13/25 8:01:56 PM by Mac - 1 reply (last reply by Mac at 05/15/25 5:54:26 PM)Mac from Asheville on 05/13/25 8:01:56 PM
Currently on my way to DC. Arrived with the rain in Rockwood this afternoon. I understand there is/may be flooding and flash flooding. Looks like there are evacuations road closures around Meyersdale and maybe Cumberland? Can anyone give an indication if this will affect ride for the next 3 days to DC? Should I consider alternative plans? I am fine with rain. Not fine with flooding. Would consider off trail reroutes from Cumberland to DC.
Mac from Asheville on 05/15/25 5:54:26 PM
Cumberland to Hancock update:
Cumberland to Old Town is champagne.
At Old Town the closure is a barricade that seems more official than yellow tape so I headed off path and stopped at the Old Town Kitchen and bought some Vienna Sausages, Orange Square Nabs, and a Pepsi. I did not explore the path beyond the barricade- hopped on to 51 and CAREFULLY rode to Town Creek Aqueduct entrance no problem (Mile 167-162). A few short, steep hills and no shoulder…
Town Creek to Paw-Paw tunnel was more champagne.
Paw-Paw tunnel to the closure at miles 136 to 134 was messy but not notably.
Mile 134 to Hancock is messy. Lots of remnant silt and mud from the Potomac flooding. Probably 10 or so down trees across the path in this section, two of note.
Cold beer in Hancock. Take care and safe travels.
Free Parking
- + Hello everyone,
Hope this finds all doing good.
I have a question about the free parking under I-68 ?
Anyone here have any information about how safe it is to live your car there for a week ...
Discussion started 05/13/25 8:54:44 AM by oldspoke - 3 replies (last reply by oldspoke at 05/13/25 10:20:14 AM)oldspoke from Brick, N.J. on 05/13/25 8:54:44 AM
Hello everyone,
Hope this finds all doing good.
I have a question about the free parking under I-68 ?
Anyone here have any information about how safe it is to live your car there for a week ?
Any vandalism or break ins ?
Thank you for your time.
Oldspoke
oldspoke from Brick,N.J. on 05/13/25 8:55:49 AM
sorry should be leave your car my bad
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 05/13/25 9:44:12 AM
In general, the reviews of parking there indicate that it is safe to park there. I've neither incurred nor heard of any issues there. The normal public parking precautions are advised i.e. remove any valuables from sight inside your car.
Perhaps those that live in and around Cumberland can offer their experience as well.
oldspoke from Brick,N.J. on 05/13/25 10:20:14 AM
Thanks Rivnuts
Friday the 16th
- + Anyone taking the train from DC to Pittsburgh on Friday?
Discussion started 05/13/25 7:50:44 AM by Jack - 0 repliesJack from Orange , CT on 05/13/25 7:50:44 AM
Anyone taking the train from DC to Pittsburgh on Friday?
riding PGH to CUM
- + Our train gets in late to PGH. Is there a hotel and restaurant close to the train station?
Discussion started 04/28/25 6:13:52 PM by Karin - 5 replies (last reply by Rivnuts, Homestead,PA at 05/08/25 11:50:39 AM)Karin from Arlington on 04/28/25 6:13:52 PM
Our train gets in late to PGH. Is there a hotel and restaurant close to the train station?
Rivnuts from Homestesd, PA on 04/28/25 7:41:36 PM
Penn Station which houses the Amtrak passenger terminal is on the edge of downtown Pittsburgh with a number of hotels just a handful of blocks away including the following:
Druzy Hotel
AC Hotel (a Marriott hotel)
Hampton Inn
Homewood Suites
Marriott Courtyard
Westin Hotel
You can locate these hotels in Google Maps along with Penn Station to determine which might best for you.
Among others, There are a number of restaurants on Penn Avenue in either direction from Penn Station. Again refer to Google Maps which shows these and their proximity to Penn Station and the hotels.
Drop a note if I can provide any further info.
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 04/28/25 8:55:13 PM
Make that Drury Hotel rather than Druzy Hotel. My bad.
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 04/29/25 5:50:55 PM
PS: if you are taking Amtrak’s Capital Limited from DC to Pittsburgh, its scheduled arrival around midnight makes finding a restaurant that’s open at that time of night difficult. It’s not a great time to be walking around town looking for one. Ordering from Uber Eats or DoorDash to your selected hotel may be your best and safest option.
Terry from Baltimore on 05/07/25 11:34:33 PM
If you are taking Amtrak from Washington to PGH, you will be on the Floridian instead of the Capitol Limited. It starts in Miami instead of WAS, and it is now running almost always 1 hr late to PGH - sometimes 4.5 hrs late. We planned to take it to Connellsville May 22, but had to drop that plan and rent a car instead. We have driven a rental car to PGH in the past. I prefer train. Capitol Limited got me to Chicago EARLY the last few years. But this new route has problems, at least right now. Factor that in.
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/08/25 11:50:39 AM
Thanks Terry. I had forgotten they had merged the Capital Limited into/with the Floridian route. I haven’t taken the train back from DC to Pgh since last.fall before they merged those routes. It’s disappointing that the departure time out of DC is so unreliable now. It was already a late arrival in Pgh and now it appears to commonly be even later.
Antietem Battlefield
- + For those that have been there, how far is Antietem battlefield from the trail?
Discussion started 05/06/25 8:30:10 PM by Jack - 3 replies (last reply by Rivnuts at 05/07/25 9:03:49 PM)Jack from Orange, CT on 05/06/25 8:30:10 PM
For those that have been there, how far is Antietem battlefield from the trail?
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/06/25 10:53:19 PM
It’s about 3 miles from the Towpath with a fair amount of climbing getting from the river elevation up to the battlefield. I rode up there last year. If you’re a history buff, especially Civil War history, it’s worth doing. The park service has a bike route around the battlefield that visits the major battles. What amazed me most was the number of deaths, 23,000, in only 12-hours of battle. A very sobering statistic.
Jack from Orange, CT on 05/07/25 8:33:05 PM
Great, thanks. Where is the best place to exit the trail?
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/07/25 9:03:49 PM
It depends which direction you are riding along the C&O. If you’re are riding down river as I was last year, I got off the trail at Taylor’s Landing. If you’re a history are riding upriver, you can leave the trail at Canal Road/Harpers Ferry Road or at.Shepherdstown Pike. You can use Google Maps to view these routes.
There is a rather comprehensive guide to accessing and touring the Battlefields at the following website:
https://civilwarcycling.com/battlefields/antietam/routes/
The National Park Service has some excellent websites with guides within the Battlefield also.
Yates Cottage in Boston
- + Hi Ray,
I just noticed this, The Yates Cottage is located on the GAP trail not the C & O trail.
Thanks for your assistance!
Discussion started 05/06/25 1:42:30 PM by Jade - 0 repliesJade on 05/06/25 1:42:30 PM
Hi Ray,
I just noticed this, The Yates Cottage is located on the GAP trail not the C & O trail.
Thanks for your assistance!
Cross Trails Hostel in Harpers Ferry
- + We simply could not have completed our AT trip through Maryland if it wasn’t for Parker and Cross Trails Hostel. He was our Angel, multiple times, and we are just so grateful we found him! I can’t say...
Discussion started 05/05/25 10:38:16 PM by G’s - 0 repliesG’s from Rhode Island on 05/05/25 10:38:16 PM
We simply could not have completed our AT trip through Maryland if it wasn’t for Parker and Cross Trails Hostel. He was our Angel, multiple times, and we are just so grateful we found him! I can’t say enough about how reliable, supportive and informative Parker and Cross Trails are. What a special guy and a special place! Make sure you find Parker and Cross Trails if you are in the Harper’s Ferry area and want a great and reliable place to stay. You sure can count on them!