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