Who is this ride designed for?
This trip is designed for fit cyclists interested in bikepacking, touring, and adventure riding. Riders should be comfortable riding multiple consecutive days and navigating along a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces.
Do I need bikepacking experience?
Previous multi-day riding experience is helpful, but riders who are comfortable carrying gear and riding long distances may also enjoy the trip. It is most important that participants be comfortable spending several days on the bike and feel comfortable riding unsupported with no mechanics on call.
Is this a race or fast-paced ride?
No. The focus is on bike touring, exploration, and enjoying the journey. Riders looking for a high-speed training ride may not find this trip to be the right fit. On the other hand, those looking to spend the days doing unsupported cycling with other like-minded spirits should be in for a fun, healthy, and affordable adventure on two wheels and off.
What kind of terrain should I expect?
The route includes a mix of surfaces:
- Days 1–2: Primarily the C&O Canal Towpath
- Day 3: Mixed paved and unpaved terrain with hills
- Day 4: Return to DC via the W&OD Trail
How many miles and how much climbing will we be riding each day?
Current planned routes:
- Day 1: 16 miles, 167 feet climbing (camping night)
- Day 2: 43–76 miles, 600–2,200 feet climbing (camping or hostel available)
- Day 3: 40–58 miles, 3,600–4,100 feet climbing (camping or hostel available)
- Day 4: 60 miles, 2,100 feet climbing
Certain days will include shorter and longer route options, allowing riders to spend additional time sightseeing, exploring local attractions, hiking, or enjoying holiday festivities in the host communities.
Where will this ride start and end?
The ride will start Thursday, July 1 and depart in the early evening from Georgetown. Riders will return the afternoon of Sunday, July 5.
Can I join for only part of the trip?
Riders who can join for the entire trip (starting Thursday night or Friday morning) will get first preference on registration. The organizing team is exploring options for riders who may wish to participate for only a portion of the weekend.
If you are interested in joining but can only come for part of the time, please contact Matthew Birnbaum at noshbygosh@icloud.com to express your interest. More information will be provided later in the registration window.
Where will we stay?
Participants will have lodging options that may include:
- Camping (required for Thursday night)
- Cross Trails Hostel in Harpers Ferry
- Bears Den Hostel in Bluemont
Rates are approximately $15 a night for campers and $30 a night for a hostel bunk bed. Both hostels may have private rooms available. Call ahead if interested.
Can I participate if I don't want to camp?
Yes. Indoor lodging options are planned at the hostels for riders who prefer not to camp.
Will there be water and resupply opportunities?
Yes. The route passes through communities where riders can refill water and purchase supplies. Riders should still plan to carry sufficient water for longer stretches.
Is there a pre-trip meeting?
Yes. A rider briefing will be held a few days before departure. The meeting will cover route logistics, safety considerations, lodging plans, packing recommendations, emergency procedures, and participant questions.
What is the registration fee?
TBD.
Who can I contact with questions?
Matthew Birnbaum at noshbygosh@icloud.com.
How do I choose my accommodations?
During registration, select the registration option that corresponds with your nightly accommodation preferences. All participants must camp the first night. Bunk bed hostel accommodations and camping are the options for the next two nights. For example, if you would like to camp the first two nights and stay in a hostel the third night, you would select “Camping, Camping, Hostel” during registration. Potomac Pedalers will reserve all accommodations based on your registration form.
There is nothing more you need to do to reserve a hostel bed or a campsite.