Pgh. to Wash. D.C. starting March 30, 2013
- + I realize a lot has to go right with the weather for this to happen. Especially with the Big Savage Tunnel to open early. But here is my concern, I have never ridden on the C&O Path and I have heard ...
Discussion started 12/19/2012 01:39 PM by Stillriding - 12 replies (last reply by Randy at 03/27/2013 02:59 PM)Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 12/19/2012 01:39 PM
I realize a lot has to go right with the weather for this to happen. Especially with the Big Savage Tunnel to open early. But here is my concern, I have never ridden on the C&O Path and I have heard that the GAP is like a highway compared to the C&O. Can someone truly tell what to expect once I get past Cumberland and onto the C&O. Thank you.
Roy from Middletown on 12/19/2012 07:42 PM
Rode the C&O into D.C. this past June. My experience was entirely different from a friend's, who rode the same route a couple years earlier. The trail is intended to be representative of the way it was when used as a mule path. That means rough, stones, roots, mud, loose gravel &c.
I was fortunate on my ride. The weather had been dry for a couple weeks. There was very little unavoidable mud, but lots of zig-zagging around remaining water/mud. There were lots of bumps and rocks to ride around. Poison ivy seemed to hang from every branch above the trail.
My friend's ride was all that plus unavoidable mud all over the place. He was a mess to see pictures of him on the ride.
That said it was great and I will be doing it again sometime soon, if not this coming summer.
Be sure your core is strong. I made mistake of riding GAP/C&O into D.C. in 5 days and focused training on just legs. I picked up a couple "souveniers" on trip: carpal tunnel from hours on handlebars and a crick in neck that hasn't stopped loving me, yet.
lenny on 12/20/2012 04:04 AM
The weather is the key-how bad of a winter and the condition of the trail, and the unpredictability of the spring weather. All of these factors, and your condition will affect the ride. Personally I would wait at least a month. for warmer, more predictable conditions.
JJB from Fairmont, WV on 12/23/2012 03:10 PM
I think Roy summed it up very well. The GAP is one of the best trails there is. The C&O has been one big mud puddle the times we have rode it. There is a lot of zig-zagging. If your bike is loaded down or you are pulling a trailer you will expend a good deal of energy trying to get back up to speed after going through the unavoidable mud puddles. And they are MUD puddles. On our last full ride of the C&O/GAP, both of our cassettes filled up with mud so much that the chain started "skipping". I had to take a multi-tool and clean the mud out of the cassette.
With all that being said it is a beautiful, scenic trail. The Potomac has some wonderful views. As long as you go into it knowing the trail is not as good as the GAP and you plan accordingly, you should have a good ride.
Hondo from West Virginia on 12/26/2012 08:47 AM
I totally agree with these guys. They are dead on. I do have to say I really enjoyed the primitive campsites every 5 miles on the C&O.They have water,toilet,place to set up a tent and best of all, solitude.
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 12/26/2012 06:51 PM
Thanks for all the comments, I really appreciate the feed back. I am choosing this time of year only because of vacation availability. Because of the mud and roughness of the C&O I am thinking an avg. speed of 8 1/2 to 10 mph and doing around 60 to 65 miles per day. I and thinking that some kind of mud deflector set up for the chain area will be a good thing. I will be using the hike and bike camp sites and was glad to hear that they have toilets there. I am thinking of taking an air horn for any wild animals during the night. Last is the poison ivy problem, just hoping I don't get it.
One last question if anybody has an answer. Is the Amtrak Capital Limited set up for taking your bicycle home without have to box it? I have heard that want to set it up so you can carry your bike on the train and lock it in a bike rack But don't know if that has happened yet. Thanks again for all the feedback.
lenny on 12/27/2012 03:35 PM
As of right now you must box and load freight at Union Station, and unload at Pittsburgh. No roll on service...yet.
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 03/18/2013 06:45 PM
I wanted to thank Roy, Lenny, JJB and Hondo for your feedback. Since the weather did not cooperate this year I have cancelled my ride to DC till mid May. Hope I bump into you guys on the trail sometime this year. I am still driving to DC early April and taking by bike along to ride up and see the Great Falls. I will follow up and tell all how the trail is in that direction.
Hondo on 03/19/2013 07:16 AM
The middle of May is when I rode last year and outside of one downpour it was great.Infact if everything works out Im going to hit the trail the 2nd week of May this year.Amazing how quickly summer plans fill up. Again, one trail isnt better than the other, just different.So if you see some white haired goateed dude on a black bicycle talking to himself its me.The Paw Paw Tunnel? I will deal with that when I get there. Lenny, when you going?
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 03/19/2013 09:07 AM
Hondo, I have watched your videos and will be looking for you. I have a black Schwinn. I'll be wearing a Steeler hat and have ear phones for my music.
Hondo on 03/19/2013 11:45 AM
Sounds great. My wife worries that I go by myself and I tell her you arent alone because you are always running meeting to talk with.Thats the really fun part. Heck, we may even share a campsite and campfire one night. See ya on the trail hopefully.
Denbo from Louisville KY on 03/20/2013 07:12 PM
My brother broke his carbon forks on the Towpath a few years ago and broke the hanger for his rear shifter last summer, both because of debris on the trail. It is rough on bikes and riders, but worth the difficulty. A great ride, when it is not muddy.
Randy on 03/27/2013 02:59 PM
In May and June you will have more cooperative weather, plus I'm not seeing any really hot weather in my long range forecast. We did not get a heavy snowpack this past winter, so I don't think we'll see major flooding.
As the others mentioned the C&O is not your typical Rail Trail. It is hard packed dirt with rough stone and in some places roots from trees. If you get heavy rains it will tend to lay on the trail especially in shaded areas. My favorite part of the Trail is heading North/West from Hancock, Maryland to Cumberland. The trail is more remote and the Potomac is also very clean and scenic in this area. During your trip, be sure to take in the scenery. You may encounter Black Bears going North/West after Hancock, so your airhorn is a good idea. Be sure to practice the standard Bear Safety precautions when camping in Bear Country. (A Black Bear can run 40 MPH). Keep your distance and sound your horn if you see a Bear. They will move on. Enjoy your journey!
Tent space
- + Ref: Lock 21 (swain's lock) Potomac
What's your best guess for the space
available for tenting ? TKS
Discussion started 03/26/2013 07:09 AM by Clyde. E. - 2 replies (last reply by lenny at 03/26/2013 06:21 PM)Clyde. E. from OH on 03/26/2013 07:09 AM
Ref: Lock 21 (swain's lock) Potomac
What's your best guess for the space
available for tenting ? TKS
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 03/26/2013 05:56 PM
According to this web site (http://bikewashington.org/canal/plan-camping.php) there are 5 campsites available. Remember all free sites on the C&O are first come first serve.
lenny on 03/26/2013 06:21 PM
Lock 21 is only 16 miles out of Georgetown. As I recall there is plenty of room to tent at most of the locks. And I believe Swains may have out houses. (port a johns)
Places to WASH YOUR BICYCLE
- + Riding from Pgh. to Washington, DC. or back, your bicycle could become very dirty, of course thats depending on when you make the trip. What I would like to make is a list of places where you could s...
Discussion started 03/08/2013 01:23 PM by Stillriding - 4 replies (last reply by Stillriding at 03/24/2013 02:08 PM)Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 03/08/2013 01:23 PM
Riding from Pgh. to Washington, DC. or back, your bicycle could become very dirty, of course thats depending on when you make the trip. What I would like to make is a list of places where you could stop and wash the dirt off. Bicycle riding distance preferably. I would appreciate feedback from anyone telling me where on the trail or how far from the trail and if there is a cost. Also if it is hose or power wash. Once I have enough feedback I will put together a list for everyone. Unless there is already one that I am not aware of. Thanks.
lenny on 03/09/2013 05:43 AM
These are the places I have washed my equipment over the years. Starting west to east. Bikes Unlimited at Connellsville, right on the trail. At Cumberland the Holiday Inn, and on the trail the Fairfield Inn. At Hancock, the Budget Inn. And at Harpers Ferry, the Comfort Inn
Bob Palonder from Perryopolis ,Pa. on 03/09/2013 05:50 AM
If your a guest at The Inn at Lenoras in Perryopolis, you can wash your bike there.
JJB from Fairmont, WV on 03/09/2013 10:36 AM
When we have stayed at the 1828 Trail Inn @ Hancock we were able to hose off our bikes both times. They also provided rags.
Stillriding from Pittsburgh, PA. on 03/24/2013 02:08 PM
I all so sent out many e-mails and heard back from 75% of them. Here is what I have:
Most all B&B, Hotels and Camps Sites along the way have hoses available.
C&O Bicycle charges $10.00 but they wash it for you and lube the chain and all moving parts.
Rockwood Bike Shop is $3.00
Cumberland Trail Connection, Fletchers Boat House and Thompson Boat Center and have hoses available for C&O travelers to use.
There is a car wash available about 1/2 mile from the Pump House Trail access in Homestead and also in Williamsport.
Hope this helps.
Take Six Pizza & Subs in Meyersdale
- + Such a shame...the food was delicious but the waitress was too concerned about trying to slip outside for a smoke instead of taking care of us. We finished our food then waited almost a half hour for...
Discussion started 03/21/2013 06:30 PM - 0 repliesAnonymous from Salisbury on 03/21/2013 06:30 PM
Such a shame...the food was delicious but the waitress was too concerned about trying to slip outside for a smoke instead of taking care of us. We finished our food then waited almost a half hour for our bill. In the 45 minutes after bringing our food, the waitress did not once check on us or even offer another drink. Not sure if I will come back or recommend to others.
Not sure yet,Hondo.
- + Lots going on this summer. Want to ride Greenbrier, Northbend and some of the Erie Canal. Also going to ride a few segments of the C&O and GAP. And my riding partner (wife) rides with me and we have t...
Discussion started 03/21/2013 04:16 AM by lenny - 3 replies (last reply by Hondo at 03/21/2013 05:29 PM)lenny on 03/21/2013 04:16 AM
Lots going on this summer. Want to ride Greenbrier, Northbend and some of the Erie Canal. Also going to ride a few segments of the C&O and GAP. And my riding partner (wife) rides with me and we have to work her schedule also.As you get closer give me some rough day itineraries,and I wil ride some with you
Hondo on 03/21/2013 11:31 AM
Lenny, your summer sounds like mine.GAP/Towpath in May,Myrtle Beach with family in July,John Muir Trail in August.I dont have the exact date for the GAP just yet but it should be the 2nd week of May.Oh yeah, I also have to work a little too. We live 3 miles from the Greenbrier River trail.Its a smaller version of the GAP.Very pleasant with lots of off trail things to do.
lenny on 03/21/2013 03:57 PM
Thats what we're lookin for
Hondo on 03/21/2013 05:29 PM
Lenny,if you do the Greenbrier River Trail let me know and I would be happy to shuttle your vehicle so that you would have your car waiting for you at the end if that would help your trip.I apologize for getting off the gap/towpath format.
Write your Senator , Congressman or Secretary of T
- + I see these posts year after year about non service on Amtrak. We need bicyclist and hikers to petition the powers that be concerning roll on rail service. This was to happen in July 2011, as I recal...
Discussion started 03/20/2013 04:25 AM by lenny - 0 replieslenny on 03/20/2013 04:25 AM
I see these posts year after year about non service on Amtrak. We need bicyclist and hikers to petition the powers that be concerning roll on rail service. This was to happen in July 2011, as I recall.This corridor is behind the times as rail service goes. Write or email today!
Williamsport
- + The Third Base Tavern is not listed, just across the street from the Candle Light Inn, is your typical hometown bar and watering hole. There is a unique C&O Canal tradition there. If you go in and t...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 03:28 PM by Swagman - 1 reply (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 03/18/2013 08:08 AM)Swagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 03:28 PM
The Third Base Tavern is not listed, just across the street from the Candle Light Inn, is your typical hometown bar and watering hole. There is a unique C&O Canal tradition there. If you go in and tell the bar keep that you’re a “trail virgin”, you’ll be treated to a free shot of “rocket fuel” and an opportunity to sign your name on one of the many ceiling tiles. Remember to be creative, it’s your chance for immortality.
Ray (webmaster) on 03/18/2013 08:08 AM
Thank you for the heads-up; I have added this to the listings. Sounds like a fun place. I appreciate you sharing this info (and your other posts too!).
Restaurant Ottaviani in Cumberland
- + I think this place is closed.
Discussion started 03/17/2013 04:12 PM by Swagman - 1 reply (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 03/18/2013 08:06 AM)Swagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 04:12 PM
I think this place is closed.
Ray (webmaster) on 03/18/2013 08:06 AM
You might have caught them on a Sunday or Monday. According to their Facebook page, they are still open.
- + Was this ride recent, that generated all of your posts? If so tell us of the ride.We're curious of conditions and weather, and how many miles you put in.
Discussion started 03/18/2013 04:29 AM by lenny - 0 replieslenny on 03/18/2013 04:29 AM
Was this ride recent, that generated all of your posts? If so tell us of the ride.We're curious of conditions and weather, and how many miles you put in.
post to Facebook
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No Water at Swain's Lock Campground
- + There is now potable water at Swain’s Lock. The water fountain device was removed when NPS removed the concessions stand next to the Lock 21. There is no water pump either. You’ll need to filter wa...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 04:24 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 04:24 PM
There is now potable water at Swain’s Lock. The water fountain device was removed when NPS removed the concessions stand next to the Lock 21. There is no water pump either. You’ll need to filter water from the canal or Potomac.
School House Kitchen in Oldtown
- + Great home style cooking. Cash only! There is an ATM inside if you need some cash.
Discussion started 03/17/2013 04:17 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 04:17 PM
Great home style cooking. Cash only! There is an ATM inside if you need some cash.
Manhattan Grill Closed?
- + I think this place is now a Mexican restaurant!
Discussion started 03/17/2013 03:39 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 03:39 PM
I think this place is now a Mexican restaurant!
Fairfield Inn & Suites in Cumberland
- + I was not impressed with this establishment, the so called “continental breakfast”, or their rates. For their room price, I’d rather stay at the Holiday Inn. At least you’ll get a real restaurant, ...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 03:35 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 03:35 PM
I was not impressed with this establishment, the so called “continental breakfast”, or their rates. For their room price, I’d rather stay at the Holiday Inn. At least you’ll get a real restaurant, bar, and room service.
Williamsport Laundry Center in Williamsport
- + Bring plenty of Quarters!
Discussion started 03/17/2013 03:30 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 03:30 PM
Bring plenty of Quarters!
Tony's Pizza in Williamsport
- + Excellent Italian Restaurant! Authentic dishes, pizza and you can get wine with your meal. A great value too.
Discussion started 03/17/2013 03:21 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 03:21 PM
Excellent Italian Restaurant! Authentic dishes, pizza and you can get wine with your meal. A great value too.
White's Ferry store and ferry in Poolesville
- + Every time I pass by this place, the store is either closed for the season or just plain “CLOSED”. Peeked inside during my trek in 2012 and noticed that all the shelves, counters, coolers, and cabine...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 01:14 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 01:14 PM
Every time I pass by this place, the store is either closed for the season or just plain “CLOSED”. Peeked inside during my trek in 2012 and noticed that all the shelves, counters, coolers, and cabinets were gone. In fact, the hole joint was vacant, totally void of furniture. I guess that the store is really closed now.
Dickerson
- + It is a little hike from the trail, but well worth it. There is a small country store in Dickerson with a deli just the other side of the railroad overpass next to the Post Office. Excellent fried c...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 01:00 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 01:00 PM
It is a little hike from the trail, but well worth it. There is a small country store in Dickerson with a deli just the other side of the railroad overpass next to the Post Office. Excellent fried chicken and burgers. Good place for re-supply and pick-up mail drop from home. You can also mail stuff home that you should of left behind.
Bill's Place in Little Orleans
- + If folks were worried that Bill’s Place would close after the death of Bill back in January 2013, I am happy to report that Bill’s son, Jack, has taken over operations of this famous watering hole. S...
Discussion started 03/17/2013 12:44 PM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 03/17/2013 12:44 PM
If folks were worried that Bill’s Place would close after the death of Bill back in January 2013, I am happy to report that Bill’s son, Jack, has taken over operations of this famous watering hole. Stopped by last night for a St. Patrick’s libation and found the place packed with loyal patrons. See ya on the trail in 2013.
Berkeley Springs
- + what is the detour like at mile 85 . how long is it and how hard; and what is the ride from berlkly springs to the trail like
Discussion started 06/06/2010 07:44 AM - 4 replies (last reply by lenny at 03/17/2013 04:08 AM)Anonymous on 06/06/2010 07:44 AM
what is the detour like at mile 85 . how long is it and how hard; and what is the ride from berlkly springs to the trail like
Crystal from Grantsville on 09/14/2010 10:00 PM
The detour is 6 miles..... up and down hills... small, fairly busy country road..... Hard? It depends on how tired you are :) Do-able but plan for it in your day.... Good luck!
jeff on 10/31/2010 08:52 PM
Did the detour twice on Labor day week end since we typically do an out and back 50 to 75 mile rides. The return back portion we hit the pavement at Taylor's landing which was not as steep but a longer grade. over all it is about the best you are going to get for the area. Would not want to be very tired with a fully loaded bike since you would have to push it up the hill. Also need good brakes if you don't follow the sign about walking down the hill to the river. The hills are short but steep
Nigel Dardar from Hancock on 03/16/2013 10:11 PM
Your question had 2 parts. In regards to your asking about mile marker 85, most of us refer to that area as Big Slackwater (downstream of Williamsport).That break in the C & O Canal is now 100% complete. No longer any need for any detour onto country roads at Big Slackwater. In regards to your possibly leaving the C & O Canal to visit Berkeley Springs, Berkeley is about 6 miles away from the Canal. No bike path to it. You travel on a busy Route 522. Perhaps best to arrange shuttle. Berkeley Springs is a great town, well worth the visit to Berkeley Springs. At that point on Canal you will be at Hancock (mile 124), you must visit Hancock. Also Fort Frederick at mile 112.1 is super. At mile 113 is Western Maryland Rail Trail, going West to Hancock it is smooth/level asphalt--Super Ride into Hancock from Ft. Frederick. If your goal after Hancock is to continue West past Hancock, stay on Western Maryland Rail Trail for 12 more smooth miles on asphalt before returning to C & O Canal towpath.
lenny on 03/17/2013 04:08 AM
Nigel, Great answers, I am in complete agreement with your answers.
Bike Route to Union Station
- + Planning to ride from Pittsburgh to Georgetown next week. What is the recommended route to bike from MP 0 to Union Station?
Discussion started 10/19/2012 03:51 PM by Tom O - 2 replies (last reply by lenny at 03/13/2013 04:25 AM)Tom O from Pittsburgh on 10/19/2012 03:51 PM
Planning to ride from Pittsburgh to Georgetown next week. What is the recommended route to bike from MP 0 to Union Station?
Clyde E. from Erie Shores, OH on 03/12/2013 07:19 PM
Regarding post by Tom O.,Oct. 19, 2012....
Planning this same trip in July '13 desparate
for same info. Pls post what you can. Tks
lenny on 03/13/2013 04:25 AM
For complete directions, Google maps & directions Thompsons Boat Ctr. 2900 Virginia Ave NW, Wash. DC to Union Station 50 Mass. Ave NE. Wash. DC
shuttle Cumberland to Homestead
- + Riding from Homestead to Cumberland in late spring. Looking for shuttle back to Homestead for solo rider and bike .Anyone with suggestions? Thanks
Discussion started 03/12/2013 06:37 PM by jkh - 0 repliesjkh from evansville indiana on 03/12/2013 06:37 PM
Riding from Homestead to Cumberland in late spring. Looking for shuttle back to Homestead for solo rider and bike .Anyone with suggestions? Thanks
Big Savage Tunnel
- + Anyone know what group is responsible for opening/closing the BST, and how to contact them? I'll be heading south out of Pittsburgh on March 10th and thought I might drop an email to see about having ...
Discussion started 01/21/2013 04:46 PM by daddybland - 1 reply (last reply by Jamie at 03/12/2013 01:13 PM)daddybland from Durham, NC on 01/21/2013 04:46 PM
Anyone know what group is responsible for opening/closing the BST, and how to contact them? I'll be heading south out of Pittsburgh on March 10th and thought I might drop an email to see about having the tunnel opened a little early. Wishful thinking maybe, but all they can do is say no.
Thanks,
Robert
Jamie on 03/12/2013 01:13 PM
I'm sure they would do that just for you.... LOL
transportation
- + Looking for a transport company from Little Orleans to Pittsburgh.
Discussion started 03/09/2013 03:45 PM by hms - 0 replieshms from Smyrna, DE on 03/09/2013 03:45 PM
Looking for a transport company from Little Orleans to Pittsburgh.
Parking in Homestead
- + We are planning to leave a car in Homestead, PA for about a week while we ride from DC to Homestead. Any suggestions on a good safe place to leave a car for that long?
Discussion started 04/16/2012 03:45 PM by Jim - 3 replies (last reply by Bob Palonder at 02/28/2013 05:46 AM)Jim from Cincinnati on 04/16/2012 03:45 PM
We are planning to leave a car in Homestead, PA for about a week while we ride from DC to Homestead. Any suggestions on a good safe place to leave a car for that long?
Bill T. from Vermilion, OH on 02/28/2013 01:57 AM
Jim, Cincinnati. When you get an answer
please post it, going from Homestead to D.C. in
June. Thanks in advance.
lenny on 02/28/2013 05:35 AM
There are many well light public parking lots at The Waterfront. As well as the businesses they serve.
Bob Palonder from Perryopolis ,Pa. on 02/28/2013 05:46 AM
If you stay at the Marriot the first night, they will let you park in their lot. You might check out The inn at Lenoras for your second night.
MP 0 to Union Station
- + Having difficulty getting this info. Any help
would be appreciated.
Discussion started 02/28/2013 12:28 AM by Bill T. - 1 reply (last reply by lenny at 02/28/2013 05:19 AM)Bill T. from Vermilion, OH on 02/28/2013 12:28 AM
Having difficulty getting this info. Any help
would be appreciated.
lenny on 02/28/2013 05:19 AM
2 west / 40 Mass. Ave N.E.
Final link of Great Allegheny Passage due in June
- + WEST HOMESTEAD, Pa. — The missing link in bicycle trail connecting the Pittsburgh area to Washington D.C. should be finished in May and will be formally dedicated at a June 15 ceremony.
Ground ...
Discussion started 02/15/2013 09:58 AM by Ray (webmaster) - 0 repliesRay (webmaster) on 02/15/2013 09:58 AM
WEST HOMESTEAD, Pa. — The missing link in bicycle trail connecting the Pittsburgh area to Washington D.C. should be finished in May and will be formally dedicated at a June 15 ceremony.
Ground was broken in October on the final mile of the Great Allegheny Passage, a 141-mile bicycle trail from the Pittsburgh area to Cumberland, Md. That's where the Great Allegheny Passage links up with the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, which stretches to Washington, D.C.
The June event will include a ribbon cutting near Sandcastle Waterpark, where the final link of the trail is being built just east of Pittsburgh. A bicycle ride to Pittsburgh's Point State Park will follow, where a party will be held celebrating the trail's completion.
The celebration is being delayed so renovations of the park's fountain can be finished first.
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20130213/us-travel-brief-great-allegheny-passage/?utm_hp_ref=green&ir=green
Little Orleans Lodge in Little Orleans
- + We've stayed here a number of times over the years and recommend it to all our friends. We enjoy Steves' hospitality,knowledge,humor and willingness to go that extra mile for us. We've always felt at ...
Discussion started 01/23/2013 08:52 AM by P.F. Moran - 0 repliesP.F. Moran from Kensington,MD. on 01/23/2013 08:52 AM
We've stayed here a number of times over the years and recommend it to all our friends. We enjoy Steves' hospitality,knowledge,humor and willingness to go that extra mile for us. We've always felt at home along ways from home. Enjoy!
Consession Stand at Fort Frederick
- + There is a small concession stand at Fort Frederick State Park that is open from Memorial through Labor Day and sells refreshments like drinks, candy, ice-cream, and sandwiches. Follow signs from can...
Discussion started 01/14/2013 09:25 AM by Swagman - 1 reply (last reply by Randy at 01/22/2013 10:46 AM)Swagman from LaGrange, GA on 01/14/2013 09:25 AM
There is a small concession stand at Fort Frederick State Park that is open from Memorial through Labor Day and sells refreshments like drinks, candy, ice-cream, and sandwiches. Follow signs from canal landing up hill, over railroad tracks for about ¾ of a mile. Very expensive, will take credit cards. There is a real restroom down the road and tap water if you are tired of drinking the iodine laden well water.
Randy on 01/22/2013 10:46 AM
It's located across the road from the Fort. Can't miss it.
Check out Fort Frederick while you are there. Quite impressive. One of the few French and Indian War era (1750's) stone Forts still in existence in North America.
- + Hondo, are you planning a ride this summer? Im thinking about it, friends are doing it again late June and I may as well. This would be my forth. I am also thinking about Erie Canal or the Katy bot h ...
Discussion started 01/19/2013 07:58 AM by lenny - 2 replies (last reply by lenny at 01/20/2013 09:40 AM)lenny on 01/19/2013 07:58 AM
Hondo, are you planning a ride this summer? Im thinking about it, friends are doing it again late June and I may as well. This would be my forth. I am also thinking about Erie Canal or the Katy bot h pretty ambitious rides. Write back, we could do an out and back,and meet for real.
Hondo on 01/19/2013 07:59 PM
Hey Lenny, good to hear from you. As a matter of fact Im planning on doing an out and back this year starting from Boston Pa. to Georgetown .Right now Im just not sure of the start date. Would be a blast to run into you along the trail. Keep me posted.
lenny on 01/20/2013 09:40 AM
Count on it.
post to Facebook
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Red Roof Inn Williamsport in Williamsport
- + Very hiker-biker friendly. Nice stay, clean room, ask for government rate if you are active duty or retired military.
Discussion started 01/11/2013 10:55 AM by Swagman - 1 reply (last reply by Paul A at 01/16/2013 11:41 PM)Swagman from LaGrange, GA on 01/11/2013 10:55 AM
Very hiker-biker friendly. Nice stay, clean room, ask for government rate if you are active duty or retired military.
Paul A on 01/16/2013 11:41 PM
When I was there in '11 they had a coin operated washer and drier making it very easy to do laundry as well as get a shower before continuing my thru hike
Other Services in Hancock
- + There are two grocery stores in Hancock, barber shops, laundrymats, and bus service to Cumberland or Baltimore.
Discussion started 01/14/2013 09:30 AM by Swabman - 0 repliesSwabman from LaGrange, GA on 01/14/2013 09:30 AM
There are two grocery stores in Hancock, barber shops, laundrymats, and bus service to Cumberland or Baltimore.
Downsville
- + With the completion of the repairs of the tow path near Dam #4, hiker-bikers will no longer have to brave the detour towards Downsville, MD. It would be safer to just keep going until Williamsport.
Discussion started 01/14/2013 09:18 AM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 01/14/2013 09:18 AM
With the completion of the repairs of the tow path near Dam #4, hiker-bikers will no longer have to brave the detour towards Downsville, MD. It would be safer to just keep going until Williamsport.
Spring Gap Store Closed
- + The little store at Spring Gap, MD is CLOSED!
Discussion started 01/14/2013 09:15 AM by Swagman - 0 repliesSwagman from LaGrange, GA on 01/14/2013 09:15 AM
The little store at Spring Gap, MD is CLOSED!
Sweet Magnolia Restaurant Closed
- + This restaurant is CLOSED along with the B&B. In fact there is no lodging in Paw Paw, WV and the only restaurant is Tony's JR. across the street from the Liberty convenience store deli. You’re best ...
Discussion started 01/11/2013 10:46 AM by Swagman - 2 replies (last reply by lenn at 01/13/2013 09:10 PM)Swagman from LaGrange, GA on 01/11/2013 10:46 AM
This restaurant is CLOSED along with the B&B. In fact there is no lodging in Paw Paw, WV and the only restaurant is Tony's JR. across the street from the Liberty convenience store deli. You’re best bet is, if coming from Cumberland, is to continue to Little Orleans and stay at Little Orleans Lodge. If coming from Williamsport, you can stop over in Hancock or Little Orleans. Be warned though that there is absolutely no lodging what so ever in Paw Paw unless you are going to camp.
Ray (webmaster) on 01/13/2013 08:12 AM
Swagman, thank you for all the updates on businesses and services along the trail. I have updated the listings to reflect these changes. Folks like you are essential in keeping the website info up to date - your fellow trail riders and hikers appreciate it.
lenn on 01/13/2013 09:10 PM
Spoke with owner of Liberty Convenience store last Sept., and she said she and her partner bought building across street for restaurant and will have limited lodging.