Reply to Just did the towpath in 2.5 days... Excellent

Did the trip alone and unsupported in mid Nov 2011. Bike was a Yeti SB66 strapped with ~ 35 pounds of gear.

I live near DC. Rented a HERTZ one-way ($100) to Cumberland. The car dropoff was 1/4 mile from trailhead.

Started at mile marker 184.5 near the C&0 trailhead. Picked up lunch in Hancock (mm 120) and made it to Lockhouse #49 (where I stayed the night) at Four Locks near mm 108.

Next day, Another 75+ miles passing Shepherdstown and Harper's Ferry WV - crossing the Potomac on Whites Ferry at sundown, eventually ending the day in Leesburg, VA at the Best Western... Nice :)

Last 1/2 day on home turf - Leesburg to Georgetown then home. The weather had been unseasonably warm and beautiful the first two days. But today's cold-rain reminded me what season it was. Had the correct gear so no problem. Arrived in G-Town around 11am and then home right at noon. OH MAN... that was a super fun ride!
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A couple things... I planned my trip @ 60 miles a day whish is certainly doable for any semi-serious bike rider. I averaged almost 80 miles a day. In summer, the additional daylight hours could add 20 miles a day - or give you that much more chill-time.

Don't forget to bring a light for the Paw-Paw tunnel - It really is dark. Dangerously exciting. I could have passed Sasquatch without knowing.

Lots of other cool sights, sounds, and animals throughout the day - very few people this time of year.

I heard mixed reviews about accomodations at Hancock MD. I decided not to gamble, purchased supplies and moved on. I was able to reserve the lockhouse using my iphone and a visa. 15 miles later, I arrived and got in with easy (code) access. Lockhouse #49 was a perfect rustic overnighter.

The Best Western in Leesburg was nice, inexpensive ($85), and had a good continental breakfast setup in the morning.

Rember to always graze on nutritionals and drink plenty of water throughout the day. This rule (and so

Great post. Summer can also be tough. July 5-9 2010 was 105 degrees and 65m/d was tough.

My wife and I bike either the canal or the GAP every July. It can be hot, but the tree canopy is such that we've never felt oppressed by the heat.