Can you ride a bike on a canal towpath?

You don’t need a permit to cycle on our towpaths. We simply ask that you cycle with great care for pedestrians, wildlife and the fabric of our waterways to ensure that everyone can enjoy them to their full potential.

How long is the C&O canal bike trail?

184.5 miles
The towpath is the dirt and stone path that runs 184.5 miles along the C&O Canal, where visitors can walk, run, or bike the distance between Georgetown and Cumberland, MD.

Where should I stay when riding the C&O Canal?

The town of Hancock makes a good overnight stop because it offers several lodging options. The 1828 Trail Inn and the Riverrun bed and breakfast are located just off the C&O Canal. There’s a Super 8 Motel is within a half mile of the towpath and there are several restaurants in town.

Is the C&O Canal trail paved?

What to expect on the C&O. The riding surface of the towpath varies from section to section but most of it can best be described as a dirt road. There are some short paved sections, and a couple dozen miles of manicured crushed stone, but 90% of the towpath looks like the image above.

Can you cycle through Blisworth tunnel?

It was built over 12 years from 1793 and connects Stoke Bruene to Blisworth 3km away. There’s no towpath through the tunnel, so the cycle route takes a steep incline to the top of the hill and follows Stoke Road for about a mile before returning to the canal at the tunnel exit just south of Blisworth.

Can you cycle along the River Chelmer?

Route description Relish nature to the fullest with this cycling route. If you enjoy water, you’ll certainly enjoy this route. A collection of some great views along this river (Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation).

Where does the C&O Canal trail start?

The traditional starting point at mile marker #0 of the C&O Towpath is in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The path ends at the trailhead at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Station in Cumberland, MD. There’s even a National Park Service C&O Canal Visitor Center.

Is the C&O trail flat?

The C&O towpath is great for cycling because the nearly flat trail makes for easy pedaling. Over the 184 miles from Washington to Cumberland the trail only climbs 600 feet in elevation. Come prepared with a camera and a flashlight to capture the highlights along the trail.