C&O / GAP Forum

Last weekend was my experience on the GAP/C&O, and I learned quite a bit. I'll share our story with some tips so that others may plan to be more prepared than us!

Three of us (my father, 60yo 240lb, not-so-fit but can just keep pedaling, me, pro xc mountain bike racer, and a buddy Stefano, 44yo, very competitive recreational rider) planned to do Pitt to DC in 3 days, staying in hostels/hotels on the way.

My setup: Trek Boone with worn out 34mm Hutchinson Bulldog tubeless cyclocross tires, 42 ring with 11-28 cassette, full fenders front and rear, Di2 drivetrain. I had a seatbag with 2xC02s and 2x tubes, and a tire lever.

Dad's setup: Trek Crockett with 32mm Specialized Roubaix pro tubeless tires, full fenders, 38t, 11-28 Di2 drivetrain, bell (!). Seatbag with 1x tube, C02, lever, frame mounted hand pump.

My backpack had: running shorts and shirt, very light wind shell jacket and pants, cheap thog sandals, spare socks, spare gloves, chargers for phone and garmin, chamois butter, deodorant, toothbrush, multi tool, chain lube. All in, my camel back, with phone and wallet, weighed 5.5lbs.

The first day (Pitt-DC), we stopped at Waffles INCaffienated for breakfast on our way out of town. It was excellent. Good coffee, too, and only about 1/4 mile off the trail.

We stayed the first night in Meyersdale, in Morgan Toole's hostel bedding, which was really great for the price. Food at the restaurant wasn't bad, though we might have been too tired to notice. It had rained on us for the last few hours of the ride that day; I was really happy to see the GAP hold up well to steady rainfall, as it remained perfectly rideable the whole time.

Day two was a short climb up to the divide, then 'bomb' down to Cumberland. We had breakfast at a small diner across from Morgan Toole (can't remember the name; it was 1 block away) and it was good, but not as great as waffles from day 1. Cumberland was an awesome place to stop for coffee and/or lunch, as there were many options within a few hundred yards of the trail. From there, the C&O started, and we quickly realized that those of us who had fenders were going to be much drier, cleaner, and happier than those who did not. We stopped longer than normal for lunch and pushed our luck bit with timing sunset, but safely got into the Red Roof Inn in Williamsport before it got dark. This Inn was a small climb away from the trail, which seemed eternal after so many miles of flatness. Red Roof was nice enough, especially considering its relatively low cost. We skipped early breakfast in Williamsport (not much open at 7:30a on Sunday) in favor of a ride to Sharpsburg for coffee/brunch. A stop by Shepardstown is well worth the short detour from the trail. It's a quaint little college town with plenty of coffee shop/quality lunch options. Once into DC, we took bike paths from C&O mile 0 over to Reagan Airport to rent a one way car back to Philly. We could've waited for the train the next day, but I had to be back at work Monday morning.

Things learned from the trip, in no particular order:

Bring a small bike bell. It's nice to have, and makes life 1000x easier when navigating the amusment park-like crowds as you approach DC.

Full fenders, front and rear, are a must. Next time I will have a large mud flap hanging from my front fender to give even more coverage for my feet and the bike's BB.

The gearing range of your bike is largely irrelevant unless you plan to venture off the trail far. In that case, be prepared for large hills.

A small headlight was a life saver for the one long unlighted tunnel (Paw Paw?), but otherwise wasn't really needed, as we were never out at night. A true boyscout-type might bring one just in case, but we were trying to stay light. One light for the three of use sufficed.

Pack some extra food with you, especially on C&O. I'm usually a stickler for nutrition planning in races, but my bra

Rick thank you for the very informative post. I'm sorry that the website cut off the end of your comment; here is the rest:

I'm usually a stickler for nutrition planning in races, but my brain was firmly switched into 'cruise' mode for this trip, so I just ate when we stopped at restaurants. This led to me being hangry on more than one occasion. Keep some snacks on board to prevent this.

The backpack method worked very well for us, but we only needed to be prepared for temps ~47-70F. I might consider a rack/pannier situation if I needed to bring more clothing. However, it was really nice to not have a 50lb bike when going up and down stairs or hopping ledges/curbs around town.

I hope this helped give a few people ideas on how to pack relatively light and get this trip done!

Thanks , I have a rack on the back of the bike planning to do Cumberland to Dc this Memorial day weekend... Do I still need the fenders if i have the rack with the bag that has the built in paineirs?

Just went back and read this - I hope your Memorial day trip went well. To answer for others who might be reading... I would try to get a fender under the rack. If you get full coverage around the back tire all the way to the bike's bottom bracket, it will keep a fair amount of mud/water off the drivetrain and bearings, as well as the rear brake (if you're using some time of rim brake). When purchasing fenders, just try for the widest that will fit in your frame, not the perfect size match for your tires. Wider is always better as long as it fits through the seat and chain stays.

bike bells are mandatory in Maryland!

Good evening,

Anyone have information about the current trail conditions from DC to Cumberland? I know it's a big stretch, but three of us are hitting the trail on Saturday and need some mental preparation. If you know, or know where we can find trail condition updates, or know who to call, please pass along.

Cheers,
Christophe Casamassima

Trail conditions between Cumberland and Hancock were excellent. A few muddy areas but nothing major.

Just arrived in Cumberland tonight (Fairfield Inn). Starting my ride in the morning. To Hancock tomorrow. Then to Harper's on Friday. Then to DC on Saturday.
My blog:
candocanalbiker . blogspot . com

Day 1 in the books. Excellent trail conditions. A few mud puddles but not bad. Loved being able to get on the WMRT for the last 10 miles into Hancock. I put a video compilation on my blog site:
candocanalbiker . blogspot . com

I'm going to do the GAP/C&O trail from Pittsburg to DC (taking amtrack from DC to Pittsburg), and would like to bring my gas canister MSR stove. It looks like I can't carry the canister on Amtrak. Suggestion of a place I can get a gas canister along the GAP trail?

There's an REI right after you cross the Hot Metal Bridge ...

I was told just a few weeks ago via phone that there was NO PROBLEM bringing a fuel cartridge on board. I specified canister and not liquid fuel (white gas.) So I'm going on that info. Yes there is an REI across the bridge so that would work also.

Another thought. We are planning indoor stays along the Passage and camping once we hit C&O. We can (and might) purchase our fuel at Cumberland Connection Bike Shop. That way we won't be carrying needless weight.

Cumberland bike shop sells the larger canisters. They will also accept a shipment and hold until your arrival. The camppground in Brunswick will also hold a package for you. I did this for my thru hike and it was nice to not carry the extra weight!

Jacque, Thanks for the info about Cumberland Connection holding packages for you. There are also storage containers out front of the shop that you could store some gear in. When we bike both the Passage and C&O we typically stay indoors the 3 nights along the Passage then gather our overnight gear once we hit Cumberland. Never had a problem with theft.

I'm a little confused reading the maps. Is the trailhead & parking at the Lucky Dog Cafe/Riversport, or is it really the RamCat put-in on the yough ?

2 different locations.

Does anyone know if the camping near the C&O at Whites Ferry (a) requires reservations, (b) ever fills up, (c) costs money? Thanks!

Hiker/Biker sites are free! Turtle Run (Mile 34.4) and Marble Quary (Mile 38.2) are on both sides of White's Ferry (Mile 35.5). No reservations as they are free and are first come, first serve. Just pick a spot and put up your tent.

Port-a-John, Water Pump, Picnic Table, and Grill. Bring a couple lights as it is really dark! I've never been to H/B site that filled up but I've only ever gone in summer so I would say you might have the site to yourself as trail traffic drops this time of year.

Weather permitting, I'll be starting Friday AM in Cumberland and staying in Hancock (Super 8) Friday night, then riding to Knoxville, MD (Knights Inn) Saturday, then to DC on Sunday. I'll try to post updates on trail conditions.

JK, I would appreciate any trail updates. I plan to start a ride from Whites Ferry on 10/11 be great to know about all the mud puddles before I hit them.

Will do....but with Hurricane Matthew making its way up the coast, I suspect it will cause a lot of rain starting this weekend into next week. For this reason, I am starting my trek on Thursday morning from Cumberland.

A group of friends and I will be riding the GAP/C&O Oct 12-16 (2016). With all the rain lately, I'm curious about the condition of the trails? Can someone share?

Hello-
I'm riding the C&O / GAP trails next week and I was curious if anybody knew the current trail conditions for the C&O specifically. Last year when I rode the C&O it was pretty muddy. I'm hoping for dryer conditions this year.

There has been minor flooding this week along the river, but the canal has not breached. Heavy rain advisories have been posted for the entire region through tomorrow afternoon. I wouldn't count on dry.

Ah well that's a bummer but such is life. Thanks for the information.

I have friends riding the past few days. They moved on to the GAP today. Said riding yesterday on the C&O was pretty muddy. Hopefully the rain will move out and you'll be ok. Best wishes.

We rode the 25 miles from Hancock to Williamsport on 9/30. It was easily passable but a lot of puddle dodging. We averaged about 8mph. Heavy rain this morning (10/1) so we decided to stop.

Planning to ride the C&O from Cumberland to DC the last weekend of September. How are the current trail conditions? Any detours or bypasses? THANKS

Sounds awesome. Hope you enjoy. Trail conditions vary section to section especially the towpath. Hope the rain didnt damper your spirits.

So, odd question for you folks who have used this website for your trip planning.
How many other bike trails used this web designer for their sites?

-bikecando.com
-bikekatytrail.com
-bikecowboytrail.com
All appear to be from exact same designer. I REALLY like this format and would research more trails.

I believe the webmaster/owner of all 3 sites is a person named Ray. I agree - they are quite useful.

Planning to take Amtrak to Pittsburg from Union Station DC. Parking at Great Falls (permit) and riding to end of trail then Rock Creek to National Mall then to end of Mall. From there what is the best option street wise to take? Bike friendly streets, easy no brainer route? Thanks

we will be riding on the c&o canal during the last week of October. Seems that mornings would be on the cool side. I am a new-ish rider. does anyone have suggestions for how to dress? THanks!

Lots of layers that you can shed during the day. You'll have cool mornings/evenings but days should still be mild and reasonably warm. Gloves for sure. Rain is the big X factor. Expect some amount of rain but also the trail could be wet and muddy from rain that occurred a couple of days ago. The C&O doesn't dry out that well. You will likely contend with puddles and mud. I like to keep all of my spare clothes in gallon zip lock bags inside my panniers to keep them dry. I'm a bit envious, it should be amazing to see all of the autumn leaves in full color!

Thank you for your reply, John. I don't know if it will be too late for the fall colors or not. But, I am excited about the trip. I was wondering about mud and rain. I guess we will figure it out as we go!

fenders ...

2X on the fenders, a must if it rains!

thanks for fender advice! I am still keeping fingers crossed for great weather.
Stupid question about the layering..... long sleeve synthetic lightweight shirt over synthetic short sleeve one? I love cotton but learned the hard way that it is not the best for long rides!

October will have changeable weather conditions. The 2nd half of October may be much more cooler than the first half of the month. Higher elevations may even see Snow.

I use wool cycling jerseys, the classic type. They are far superior to synthetics while touring. In hot/humid weather sweat in the wool evaporates and keeps you cool. In wet weather wool keeps you warm if it is wet. It does not begin to smell for maybe 3 days of wear, although I often wash mine every night in hot weather. Available in short and long sleeve versions. Google them for source but I by mine from Portland Cyclewear.

Thanks for the suggestion about wool jerseys. It is interesting that you wear in warmer weather! Will start googling and see what I come across.

Just finished Pittsburgh to DC on Sept. 27, 6 days, sunshine 5 days, rain during last night, last day sunny again but the C&O coming into DC was full of puddles, hard to avoid, I was a mess...install fenders. Everyday was better than the last, you're going to have a blast.

I'm riding from Williamsport to Whites Ferry Saturday and planning to grab a bite in Shepherdstown and either Harper's Ferry or Brunswick while en route.

Suggestions for some quick and yummy places to grab a bite at these spots?

I had a pretty good meal at the Potomac Grill in Harper's Ferry while passing through a couple weeks ago.

I also had a good little BLT sandwich at the little snack shop/grill right there on the shore at White's Ferry as well.

Have fun. I'm jealous. Ha. (I live too far away to ride there often.)

Didn't cross the bridge to Harpers Ferry, too much of a hassle. Brunswick, Beans in the Belfry was good, ice water and a hose to rinse bike. Shephardstown, Bettys Restaurant was good. Snack shop at White's Ferry looked good, right off the trail, loaded up on supplies but didn't have time to eat there as the rain was imminent.

IMO it is well worth the trouble to cross the bridge to Harper's Ferry. It turned out to be one of my favorite stops on the whole ride from Pitt to DC. We stayed and ate at The Mountain House. I highly recommend it.

Agree - I don't find crossing the bridge that big of a hassle. Well worth taking a look around downtown Harpers Ferry. And...there's always ice cream for desert!

Shepherdstown has better dining options than HF. Take it from a local. Blue Moon is casual, with a great menu and outdoor seating. Maria's Taqueria is casual, quick and cheap with great food. Betty's is the best diner breakfast food around even at lunchtime, not open for dinner. Everything else is fancier, costlier, or too far away. Can't go wrong. But if you have time, take a walk over to lower town Harpers Ferry. Great history and a couple of OK restaurants with outdoor seating. Eat in Shep, sightsee in HF. Good Luck!

Can anyone confirm that the tunnel is open?

It's open, I just rode from Pittsburg to DC last week. Bring a good light.

FOR SURE - A LIGHT.

If I ride Cumberland to DC and I want to ride the Metro back to NoVa which metro stop should I get on at the end of the trail in Georgetown?

Foggy Bottom
Here you can get on the Silver, Orange or Blue lines

Foggy Bottom link
http://www.wmata.com/rail/station_detail.cfm?station_id=40

We will be riding from Cumberland to D.C. on 9/24, 5 day 4 night trip. Adventure Cycling Association is celebrating their 40th anniversary also on 9/24, and would like people to register their ride. Be it a 1 mile or 30000 mile, whatever and wherever you are doing a ride on the 24th. Here is some info about Adventure Cycling from their web site.

"As a nonprofit organization, Adventure Cycling Association's mission is to inspire and empower people to travel by bicycle. Established in 1973 as Bikecentennial, we are the premier bicycle-travel organization in North America with more than 35 years of experience and 50,000 members."

Here is a link to register if interested.

https://www.adventurecycling.org/about-us/40th-anniversary/bike-your-park-day/register/

So, everything I've read says there were 74 locks between Georgetown and Cumberland.
-Yet I camped at Lock 75.
Also, we saw a couple locks that had 1/3 and 2/3 numbers. Wiki claims 74 or 77 depending on where you look on the page.
Anybody know what the number is or why this should be confounding?

Quote from the GAP C&O Trail Guide...
"Mile 154.5-Lock 63 1/3 and lock 64 2/3: When Building the canal, the company decided that only two locks were needed instead of the three planned. Instead of renumbering the locks upstream,they numbered the two locks with fractions and skipped lock 65."

The Gap C&O Trail Guide is full of information regarding the trails and is well worth the cost.

Will there likely be any fall colors at the higher elevations on the GAP next week?

Not likely. The leaves start to change their colors in earnest after the first frost and temps have been warm lately. It is a bit dry overall, you might see a couple leaves on the trail, but things will be mostly green next week.