Bike Washington’s  C&O Canal Bicycling Guide

Overnight Lodging

Trip Planning From which end should I start? Where can I leave my car? How many days to ride the entire trail? How do I get back to my car? Where can I stay overnight? Where can I camp along the trail? Is water available along the trail? Is food available along the trail? What kind of bike tires should I use? Can I rent a bicycle? Any tips for Scout leaders? What should I bring along? Trip Planning Mile-by-Mile Mileposts 0-10 Mileposts 10-25 Mileposts 25-40 Mileposts 40-50 Mileposts 50-70 Mileposts 70-82 Mileposts 82-106 Mileposts 106-116 Mileposts 116-130 Mileposts 130-150 Mileposts 150-168 Mileposts 168-184 Mile-by-Mile Trip Reports 2007 2004 2003 1995 Trip Reports Info-to-Go Print to Go Download GPS Waypoints Download to Phone/PDA Info-to-Go

Where can I stay overnight? If (after miles of rough ridin' and dust eatin') you prefer a hot shower, hot food, and a soft bed, then you can use the many motels and B&B scattered along the canal.

Detailed Map of Harpers Ferry, WV (Mile 61)

Major stops are conveniently provided every 30 miles or so. When we used the three day "econo" option, our overnight stops were at miles 61 and 124. Mile 61 is Harper's Ferry, WV, where we stayed at the Hilltop House (304-535-2132). This is a neat old Hotel which has a great view of the valley. Keep in mind that this place is not called "Hilltop" for nothing! The climb up High and Washington Streets will put hair on your chest (grin). They do have a nice restaurant, which offers a breakfast buffet. This place was a bit pricey, so as an alternative, there is also a local Comfort Inn (304-535-6391), which is located on Route 340, at the end of Union Street.

Detailed Map of Hancock, MD (Mile 124)

The second overnight stop was in Hancock, Md at mile 124. Here we stayed at Econo Lodge (now a Super 8 Motel 301-678-6101). This was a fine motel, but not much on amenities. They offer a continental breakfast, but no other food. There are several restaurant choices in town for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

The following table lists all known Lodging choices along the towpath. Most are within a short bicycle distance from the towpath, but some will probably require a shuttle service. Also, keep in mind that during peak periods (like mid-October during the color change) hotels will book up fast.