Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 5/6/2022 10:30:33 PM:
Riding the distance of the GAP and/or C&O is an accomplishment in and of itself. The experience is enhanced by the sights and sounds along the way not the least of which is meeting new people. However, the sights along the way are better identified and appreciated knowing the history of the trails. Thus, spending some time before the trip learning about that history will enhance the experience.
There are numerous ways to discover that history. The most recent one I’ve found is the new edition of the book The Great Allegheny Passage Companion written by Bill Metzger. It describes the history of the GAP including numerous maps and photos. Perusing if not reading this book is well worth the time to better appreciate the trip rather than simply riding furiously to get from Point A to Point B each day.
Just my two cents worth. YMMV