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C&O Cumberland to D.C. - using train


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David Anderson on 3/5/2019 9:39:08 AM:
I just bought an Amtrak ticket to ride D.C. up to Cumberland with my bike and gear and plan to ride the length of C&O back to Union station over three or four days (starting April 17). I have a couple questions:

1) Does anyone know if the boarding process at Union station is the same for those rolling on a bicycle? I can't envision just strolling through to the terminal with all my gear but maybe that's the only way.

2) It seems the trail is closed at Brunswick Family Campground and there are some local services offering shuttles around the closure. Are there any other options? Any timeline for completing the repairs?

3) Does NPS advertise exactly when the water pumps will be turned on and porta-potties maintained? Website currently says mid-April but it'd be helpful to know if I need to bring my water filter and/or extra TP.

 
John from Pittsburgh on 3/5/2019 10:50:34 AM:
1. Yes just as you described...you will be walking through the terminal with your bikes and gear. Don’t worry lots of people do this. Also when you are waiting in the terminal to get called for boarding, those with bikes will be separated off to the side. You will line up with your bikes and be called to the car where your bikes go and then take your seat anywhere on the train after docking. All of the cyclists will walk their bikes to a specific train car before the rest board the train.

2. I just posted an update about the washout, scroll down through the forums for Brunswick Culvert Washout. In short, it will not be repaired in time for your trip.

3. NPS will probably have a more specific date as April approaches. Might have to do with weather or if we have a warm spring. Keep checking their site. There should be adequate opportunities to purchase water in town but I totally understand the uncertainty of the pumps and bringing a filter.

 
Ted from Homstead on 3/5/2019 2:29:06 PM:
Stay on the lookout for the "spring " 2019 closure of the Paw Paw tunnel to continue its reconstruction as per the NPS C&O Towpath website.

 
Cenzo from Hatfield PA on 3/6/2019 7:19:54 AM:
Hopefully they won't close it till after memorial day.