From: ruffin@fred.net (Allen Ruffin)
Newsgroups: dc.biking
Subject: Re: c&o canal
Date: Tue, 11 Mar 1997 04:53:56 GMT

shortmtn@mnsinc.com (Pat Blackmon) wrote:

>Does anyone know if the whole 160 \miles of the canal is open, or can say
>just what sections are unbikeable.  th\anks
                                                             \ 184 mi

I haven't ridden north of Little Orleans (15-mile Creek) or in the
metro area of late, but in between the towpath is rideable, if
somewhat rough in places. On the whole, the Park Service has done a
remarkable job of restoration following last year's floods. From what
I gathered at the last, March 1, meeting of the C&O Canal Association
(unabashed plug, PO Box 366, Glen Echo MD 20812-0366) of the $50M
needed for total restoration, only $25M has been appropriated. 

Volunteer work schedules have been published by the Association.

As to riding, you will find many places where tree removal is in
progress, and  restoration going on. You may have to walk-by,
particularly around the railway bridge at Harpers Ferry. There are
rough sections, washed away right down to the underlying cobble in
some areas, soft fill in others, ruts from construction-crew and
patrol vehicles. Many spots are muddy, partic at this time of year.
Rain/snow/freeze/thaw has left the trail soft and hard- going in many
areas. Warmer weather will help.

The towpath north from Dam 4 to McMahons Mill (took a look here today)
remains closed, with an 8-mile detour (not too safe -- no shoulders,
speeding pickups) by road. There is no canal there, where boats used
the river, and the towpath is slippery and broken, and dangerous even
to walk.  Was at Falling Waters today -- lots of damage to camping
areas still evident, cleanup in progress, but trail in good shape if a
bit soft in places.

Many of the campgrounds marked on maps are unusable. Park Service
facilities are not yet open for the season. Water is shut off and
porta-potties removed from most locations. HTH.--Al.


Editor, Writer,                    |      Ruffin@fred.net
Author of Geezer's Guide to
Bicycling the Chesapeake and Ohio Conal
Towpath (in progress). Access, parking, telephones,
toilets, water, food; photos of interesting historical
aspects; development of a comfortable bicycle for older
riders; lists of MTB manufacturers, area bicycle shops, area
clubs, with Internet addresses and useful sites
Please E-mail any useful club or dealer info you might wish 
to see in the book