C&O / GAP Forum

Looking for some feedback on how rough (roots and rocks) the C&O trail is, and if there are sections which are rougher than others.

The short answer is yes. The C&O Towpath surface varies over its length. Unless you divert to the paved Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) that parallels the C&O for ~25 miles, the Towpath is an unpaved trail of varying surface types. The good news is that over the years, much of the native earthen surface has been improved via resurfacing with a crushed aggregate. However, there remains a number of “3R” (rocks roots and ruts”) sections as well as some that don’t drain well and will be muddy with significant or recurring rain.

Approaching and especially exiting the Paw Paw Tunnel to Little Orleans has one or more of the 3R’s present. In fact, the section from the Paw Paw Tunnel to Little Orleans has not been resurfaced (as of last August) and is less enjoyable especially during or following rain. Also, the trail approaching and after Great Falls is a more gravelly surface with some rocks. In general none of the rocks are particularly sharp. Of all my trips on the C&O, a few have been on a road bike with 28mm tires. That would not be my recommendation, but I wouldn’t buy another bike just to make the trip. Wider tires or a thick chamois would be desirable however. :-)

Hopefully, other forum participants can offer their experience and opinions as well.

As Rivnuts mentions, it has changed quite a bit over the years and each year gets a little closer to the GAP in terms of surface quality. The important point though is that it isn't all like that. Where it is, you have a fine crushed limestone that rolls nearly as fast as pavement. It's a joy, but you do have to keep in mind that it is not asphalt. Edges will be soft and where it's soft thin tires will sink.

In other areas, you will encounter a rougher aggregate, pea rock, and dirt. Where it is dirt, you may encounter mud, or ruts. It's been two years since my last ride, but Cumberland south to Oldtown was particularly rough. Over they years I have also frequently encountered "temporary" surface, following a washout or other repair activity, and these sections are typically a coarser gravel.

If you are planning a full ride, probably the most important thing is to just be aware of the varying conditions and plan for the unexpected.

BUT ... this is not rough/technical, single-track level hazard. And it also not (generally) deep gravel, or chunky gravel.

What is your concern? General curiousity, difficulty of riding, bike prep, etc?

What is your concern?

It is very different than the crushed limestone of the GAP, but the roots and rocks aren't really a big deal. It's the mud that can be difficult if it's been raining. It can especially be difficult heading east out of Cumberland. If it's dry, the trail is actually pretty good.

I intend to spend a ton of time camping along the C&O this spring,summer,fall..was curious about anyone's experience with wild life and food supply.. racoons, bears , cats, chipmunk's,,etc..
should I hang it in a the tree..realize its not a heavy bear population ..Maybe a few in Greenridge. or Washington county..I was just curious if anyone has had issues or what is the recommended storage practice while sleeping.. I'm retired an mostly traveling alone with freeze-dried and dried fruit.. any input would be greatly appreciated... Definitely self sufficient no restaurant's..

I’ve had very few and no significant issues with animals during my multiple trips across the GAP & C&O Trail either to myself or my food while traveling solo. I’ve never seen an entire bear… but may have seen the rear end of one scurrying across the trail a few years back. You’re likely subject to more risk from a deer, groundhog, squirrel, or Canadian goose sprinting across the trail in front of you or losing control by hitting and riding over a walnut!

That said, and aside from Washington and Greene Counties, bears do exist in Fayette and perhaps even more so in Somerset counties through which the GAP passes. But, as I said, I’ve never seen one. I have seen foxes along the C&O as they sought out young goslings but never near my campsites.

Food storage can be an issue, primarily from raccoons and, less so, from mice and ground squirrels. For that reason I do not leave fresh or packaged food exposed, e.g. left on a table. I typically put it in a sealed bag or sack and store in a pannier. That may not be as safe as hanging it from a tree, but I have not had a breach thus far although I usually keep my panniers under the porch area of my tent.

These have been my observances over the last 11 years. Others may have somewhat different experiences to share. Enjoy your trip.

Thanks Rivnuts...I've got some beefy panniers..Ortliebs..was really wondering about can I bring the food inside. I'm primarily hammock camping.. But if I can keep the food directly under me on a ground cloth in a pannier that would be fantastic.. 11 years Holy smoke..that's truly astonishing.. You must have a passion not matched by many..C&O has been on my bucket list for decades.. since I spent the night in a grave yard of people who died building it. At least thats what I was told by the Scout Leaders back in the early 70s..we stayed at a Boy Scout camp that was in GreenRidge state forest Maryland Thanks again

Doug:

Let me know when the time approaches and perhaps we can cross paths along the trail. Happy trails.

absolutely....I'd enjoy that.. I'm retired so when the weather brakes
probably mid to late March...I'm heading out.. most likely C&O
I will keep ya posted..Thanks..

How can I send ya my e-mail or some other contact.. I'm also on Reddit

Doug:

I too am retired and thus fiexible though limited somewhat by various family commitments and sporadic medical appointments. Living in Homestead,PA I’m closest to the GAP. You can email me at:

Rivnuts@yahoo.com

Best Wishes

I sent ya an e-mail
thelowry4@msn.com

Like rvrnuts, wife and I have biked trail dozens of times but never had any problems with bears. Have had problems with raccoons primarily at Swains lock, especially one particularly persistent one a few years back that was determined to get into our panniers that were on bikes. After finally chasing him completely out of campsite area he came back later and ended up spreading neighbors’s belongings over entire area. Other than Swains we’ve had no real issues other than one mouse who made a nest inside rear pannier.

I have hiked and backpacked all over the general area, and hike and backpack /a lot/ out in the PNW. I hike regularly into the Olympic Mountains specifically to see the emerging spring bear cubs. Lots of experience around wildlife, including active bear territory. Along the C&O, it's the small critters that can be a bit of an annoyance. Curious chipmunks, squirrels, racoons, and so on. If I were in a tent, not in a known active bear area, I would just keep any food or scented items in the tent with me. Not outside the tent, not in the vestibule. Unless you are using an Ursack - but even then you'll just spend the night being woken up by the sound of critters trying to chew the bag. Otherwise, a good hang. I find most people struggle with a good hang technique and place it too near their camp. Look up PCT Method of doing a bear hang and practice it.

Wow ...guess eating YOUR food is a heck of a lot easier than scrounging around for scraps...I'm primarily hammock camping.. wasn't sure about putting the panniers directly under me or hanging on a tiny string about 10 feet in the air..That's wonderful your wife did it with ya.. I've gotten my wife's bike all rigged up to do the same..we really ride well together, just haven't stayed out yet .. this year will be our first. Both in our 60's.. have camped together while canoe camping. up in Green Ridge 20 years ago.. children and grandchildren kinda change priorities a bit..I'm retired waiting for her..any site to avoid ??? not going to ask favorites.. LOL

Personally, I would not recommend the Evitts Creek campsite due both to its general condition and its proximity to Cumberland. Ignoring the raccoon, Swains Lock can be less than wonderful on summer weekends when it can be quite busy and noisy since it’s the closest free H/B site before DC. And while noise from trains is omnipresent along the trail, the Bald Eagle and Calico Rocks campsites south of Brunswick are virtually adjacent to the train tracks going to and from the switchyard in Brunswick. You feel certain they are going to pass though your tent when trying to sleep at those sites.

Thank you Rivnuts, G,S,&Z,Brian for the in put.., you all have definitely help me and I hope others who read these comments. What a great forum for a noob like me to ask questions and get unbiased answers...tip of the hat to ya all...if ya ever see an old fart ridding an old red Jamis mtb with red panniers.. and a smile..say hello..may the soil beneath your wheels be firm this season.,enjoy...keep up the good work

Hey Brian... I've got a arborist bean bag and throw line. for reaching up to do a good hang.. Thanks. I'll probably bring a dry bag and use that.. drag a different line up for the final hang.. small enough so a squirrel cant climb.. hopefully 1.18 mm 3/64" dia line with 100 pound capacity.. about 10 ft in the air....ok?? sound good??

Hey Doug, if you do a PCT Method* hang, you don't need a separate throw line and hang line. In fact, you don't want that because it probably means that you are tying off your hang line to a tree ... which you don't want to do ... clever racoons and for sure bears will make easy work of any line tied off to a tree trunk and send your bag falling to the ground.

As for line ... your line sounds fine and if you already have it, great, use it. A few specific ones I like though: Lawson Ultraglide. Great US line maker. A little thicker, but does not snag as easily on branches. Reflective Tracer. A really good, high quality line. Hilltop Packs sells a nice ultralight one that I use often. It's 1.75mm, Dyneema so no stretch (good), super strong, and also has a reflective tracer, which is great for finding your hang in the dark. I mostly prefer this one because it is lighter and packs smaller. It is slick and fiddly though so you need to be competent with your knots ... but if you are doing PCT Method*, the only knot you do in the field is a very simple clove hitch.

*https://theultimatehang.com/2013/03/19/hanging-a-bear-bag-the-pct-method/

Thanks Brian.. Dyneema is incredible line.. I've got a couple Whoopie slings and Dyneema continuous loops... Ohhh and by the way I've got the book The Ultimate Hang.. Love it..
my email is thelowry4@msn.com feel free. don't wanna bog this forum down.. I've spent some time out in the north west as well..back in the early 80's also Wyoming , South Dakota..Different worlds all together. Off topic C & O ,,, Can't wait...Thanks a ton Brian.. My middle name and my sons name Buttt..... Bryan

I am trying to find someone who would like to do a bike trip from D.C. to Pittsburgh sometime next summer. I have done ten (10) such trips in the past but have run out of buddies, kids and grandkids who are available to do it. I averaged 70-85 miles per day in the past but want to average no more than 60 miles per day this year. I can do all the planning. Just let me know if you are interested.

It may help potentially interested persons to know whether you plan to camp, stay indoors or a combination thereof. Also your thoughts about how to get to DC from the ‘Burgh such as by train, car, shuttle or other means would also be helpful. How many days you plan to take would be helpful as well. From your description it would appear your planning 6 days of riding.

Just a thought to help anyone that may have an interest.

Was curious about construction progress on the new steps .. going from the tow path to the pedestrian bridge for access to
Harper's Ferry.., a little wordy sorry....

It's been a month since I've been by. They were still working on foundation.

Thank you very much... I imagine the frozen precip and crazy ground freezing temps aren't going to help with the progress..

Just want to reach out to everyone and wish a very happy holiday and God Bless

You too Michael. My New Year plans are to ride the GAP/CO along about June. Hope closures don't present obstacles.

Thanks for the holiday wishes and hope you and yours have a great New Year. Spring is right around the corner my friend!

I haven't gotten to ride as much as I'd like but hope to do better in 2026. Maybe I'll see you out there.

Thank you, Michael.
I am late with my reply - I thought the reply but did not write it down. We are so very fortunate to have these trails available to us. Thank you for joining us.

Cathy,
Keep training during the holidays kid. It pays off when the warm weather arrives. Winter rides are navigable since indoor trainers don't do it for me personally.

Navigable perhaps but with multiple inches of snow and temps in the 20’s here in Pittsburgh, winter training rides are quite challenging but still better than riding indoor.

I got out yesterday, 1/7/26, and rode 10 miles. Temps were in the mid 40s with maybe 8-10 mph wind. It was easy. I was surprised and thrilled that I could handle that low temperature. So I'm optimistic about doing some rides when it is in the mid 40s or up and dry. And who knows, maybe the low 40s. Hopefully this post will not result in weeks of constant snow and temps in the 20s until April.

I agree that trying to train indoors just isn't the same as being on a bike on a trail.

Please 2026, be less traumatic than 2025! Well, ok, never mind about that. Just give us bikeable weather.

Are there places to hang hammock?

All you need to do is Google "horsepen Branch campsite" and the results will show multiple photographs that people have taken of the campsite. Reviewing the photographs should answer your question.

The Pedalshift Project YouTube channel provides short video clips of all the hiker/biker campsites. A link to the video for the Horsepen Branch campsite is provided below. While I have camped there a few times over my several trips to/from DC, my sleep kit does not include a hammock and thus I have not used one there. That said, this video indicates there are a couple of locations there that a hammock can be used along with tent camping.

https://youtu.be/QBDFh7EjEEI

When do the put the handles back the pumps $

Typically by mid-April but there is not a definitive date for each of the pumps along the towpath. Your best resource is the NPS webpage for this info.

Thank you

I am attempting the entire GAP and C&O at the end of March. It looks like I may need to find a way around the Big Savage Tunnel as it may not be be open when I come through.

Any recommend ride arounds? I’ve been looking on Komoot and Ride with GPS and it appears that there may be a jeep trail that comes down from Sampson Rock or there may be a way to utilize the windmill access road but it’s hard to tell definitively. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Jasen

We would like to rent Trek bikes for the 333 mile ride. Do you rent?

I don’t know if Trek Bikes in Shadyside rents bikes for GAP/C&O tours but I know that Golden Triangle Bikes in Downtown Pittsburgh does during the touring season. You might want contact them.

See the notice below. This repaving is sorely (literally) needed.

Milling and Paving on Pittsburgh’s South Side
GAP Mile 145 | Reported on October 30, 2025 | Last Updated: October 30, 2025
The City of Pittsburgh is milling, flattening bumps, and repairing a culvert along the asphalt section of the Great Allegheny Passage on Pittsburgh’s South Side on October 30 and 31. This is a three mile section between Hot Metal Street and Haysglen Street (under the Glenwood Bridge) paralleling the Monongahela River. Please slow down and follow instructions from flaggers or construction workers when traveling this section. The GAP remains open during milling.
Once milling is complete, the City of Pittsburgh will repave this section with a smooth topcoat of new asphalt, tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 3. In order to accomplish this task, this section will be closed on that date. The Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy will underwrite a free shuttle service between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm that day. The shuttle will travel between the SpringHill Suites Pittsburgh Southside Works at 2950 South Water Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 and where the GAP crosses Haysglen Street under the Glenwood Bridge. The shuttle is first-come, first-served. Please wait on the sidewalk or out of the path of traffic.
If heavy rain delays the milling or paving, we will update this page.

This work is now complete.

The subject tunnel will close for the winter on Wednesday November 26.

I'm thinking of riding from Pittsburgh to Rockwood, PA this week. Maybe Meyersdale the next day. A Fall color tour would do me some good since surgery is on the horizon. 30 October. Kind of chilly for camping at night though. But that cyclist campground in West Newton is awesome. Anybody that wants to join me go ahead and post it.

FYI. It's going to be quite brisk here in western PA the next few days with highs around 50 and lows just above or below 40. What day are you leaving and returning?

Hey Rivnuts:

I decided not to journey on a Fall ride after all. But the post-op is going well after my surgery and I hope to cycle the entire Gap/Co in 2026. Thanks for the contact.

We usually go to Liberty laundromat on Sunday mornings and the door does not open at 6 last Sunday we waited until 10 after 6 Today the lights came on at 6:15 the door did not open until 7:15we did not know if the owner is aware of this. Thank You

The Gaptrail.org website reports that the segment detour between Markleron and Rockwood has been cleared and open for travel. Good news for fall cyclists.

Hi All,
Quality Inn & Suites Shepherdstown is now open again and fully renovated. Please come by and visit us. We also have secure bike storage inside the hotel as well. Thank you Mr.Moore (community member) for tagging us and letting folks know we are open and welcoming guests again! Look forward to seeing you soon.

https://www.choicehotels.com/west-virginia/shepherdstown/quality-inn-hotels/wv098

Yes, I stayed at the newly reopened and renovated Quality Inn in Shepherdstown and I'm so glad I did. It is a wonderful respite between Brunswick and Williamsport on the C&O Canal towpath. The rooms are all newly renovated and the breakfast in the morning was fantastic.... It fueled me up for a long day of bike touring. They also have a very secure indoor room to store your bike on the first floor. I highly recommend anybody touring on the towpath to consider stopping here for the night. It's worth it. Nearby is a grocery store, McDonalds, various restaurants, etc. Thank you Quality Inn Shepherdstown for a wonderful stay. I will be back :-)

I, too, stayed at the Quality Inn in Shepherdstown last Wednesday during my annual DC to Pgh ride following two straight days and one night of rain. They were courteous and rooms were nice and clean and allowed me to dry out my tent, clothes and gear.

The “locked room” for bikes was an electrical service room just inside the reception area that was very warm. Just great for drying out a wet bike and some gear.

With the exception of the “eggs”, their breakfast good.

We stayed at the Quality Inn Shepherdstown. Checking the directions on google maps was a treat. It called the routte from the C&O to the hotel,"mostly flat." That’s a hoot.

To West Virginians the climb up the switchback to the bridge and up to town after crossing the river is cosidered “mostly flat”! ????

Does anyone know if the hostel in Frostburg is still being used?
Thanks in advance!

While I stayed at the Frostburg Trail Inn Cafe and Tunnel Hotel campground last week, it was not apparent that the former hostel still operates as such nor does its booking website list any hostel reservations per se’. I’d give them a call at (301) 689-6466 to get the best current info.