Day 69, Big Slackwater, C&O Canal, MD

56.2 miles today and 3704 overall

We began the day in Little Orleans, Maryland, up a ridge from the C&O canal. Well fed and showered from last night we were ready to ride. We even sported freshly laundered clothes.

The weather forecast called for a chance of thunderstorms, a chance of showers, sunshine, warm temperatures and high humidity. The forecast was spot on.

The first part of the ride was along the Western Maryland Railroad Trail a fairly new rail to trail conversion with a beautiful asphalt finish. It only went for about 25 miles but it was a great way to start the day. The old railroad grade was just above the canal itself so we took that for the full length and enjoyed it; a really nice trail.

At at the end of the WMRT, we hopped back down to the canal and continued our journey down the Potomac River towards Georgetown in Washington DC.

We had our second breakfast or early lunch, depending on who’s counting, in Hancock, a nice old town. Bob was able to find some replacement pedals to fix an unexpected mechanical issue.

Further down the trail we took a break to wait out a thunderstorm. It was at a wide, slow part of the Potomac River, where the tow path is actually along the side of the river, and there is no canal. We watched the lightning and listened to the thunder. It was pretty impressive.

Continuing on, we eventually got caught in yet another thunderstorm but kept moving through it. By this time we were looking for places to camp for the evening and navigating around various detours along the trail.

After yet another flat we decided to take a break in Williamsport. Colin has recently been beset by an annoying series of flats in his front tire. The causes have been difficult to find. Colin appears to be seriously challenging Steve for the title of flat tire king.

Repairs completed we decided to get some dinner since it was getting late. We ended up at the C&O Grill. As we pulled up several patrons outside the front door on a smoke break, assured us that the chance of our bikes getting stolen was slim. In fact, according to one, we were more likely to see Jesus than have our bikes stolen. We took that as solid advice, left our bikes in front and had decent bar food and a couple beers. Our bikes were still there when we finished. Unfortunately we did not see Jesus.

Long story short, we found a good spot for the night. We’re getting some decent cold showers decent facilities, and getting ready for tomorrow Colin is doing a deep dive on what’s causing the flats. We will work on our route planning for tomorrow.

Some pics from the day