Enclosed herein are photos of a bike trip that 6 gentlemen took in October 2005 from Cumberland MD to Washington, DC on the towpath alongside the C&O Canal. We covered over 200 miles in 3 dayal of which were almost picture perfect weatherwise. Below there are a number of recommendations and suggestions if you are thinking of doing the trip.

  Silver Spring MD - Oct 14, 2005 - 5:30AM

NPS Park Map (PDF) - http://www.nps.gov/carto/PDF/CHOHmap1.pdf

According to the National Park Service ---

The C&O Canal follows the route of the Potomac River for 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, MD. The canal operated from 1828-1924 as a transportation route, primarily hauling coal from western Maryland to the port of Georgetown in Washington, D.C. Hundreds of original structures, including locks, lockhouses, and aqueducts, serve as reminders of the canal's role as a transportation system during the Canal Era. In addition, the canal's towpath provides a nearly level, continuous trail through the spectacular scenery of the Potomac River Valley. Every year millions of visitors come to hike or bike the C&O Canal in order to enjoy the natural, cultural, and recreational opportunities available.

NPS Website for the C&O Canal-http://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm

The Book you need and want for this trip - The C&O Canal Companion by Mike High. The book is apparently being revised. The description of the Canal reads from Georgetown to Cumberland. It very well done and highly informative.