Overnight bike packing - Potomac MD to Point of Rocks

RESCHEDULED: Before the weather gets too cold, get your legs spinning on an easy 30-mile bike ride with overnight camping on the C&O canal, going from Potomac, MD on back roads up to the Calico Rocks Hiker/Biker campsite. This trip is currently leaving from my home in Potomac (plenty of parking), but the start could be a nearby Metro station (Rockville?) if we get a bunch of cyclists interested. Then the trip back the next day would be along the C&O canal to mix up the scenery.

THE WEATHER LOOKS GREAT RIGHT NOW FOR BOTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.

TRIP OVERVIEW: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/52890481?privacy_code=fwwJwroidnNMOkUJlh4QrVcjJp1KhQXn

EQUIPMENT: You will need to pack as you might for an overnight backpacking trip (tent/sleeping bag/sleeping pad, more on clothes below), with a bike that has a rear rack and blinkies for traffic avoidance. You should also have a patch kit, spare tube, mini-pump, tire levers, helmet, sunglasses, cycling gloves etc. You will need panniers or similar to carry your stuff. Because this trip is fairly flat, super low (granny-type) gears not needed, but be sure it is a bike you will be comfortable on loaded with gear for 30-40 miles. NOTE: Bring toilet paper as the campsite is in the National Park and who knows if there is anyone working to resupply the porta potties.

CLOTHING: During the day, cycling shorts/shirts recommended, especially padded shorts and cycling gloves for comfort. Helmets required and bike shoes suggested, as is a windbreaker/rain jacket (it is that time of year). Light long pants/shirt for evenings (will be fairly chilly at night), maybe light down jacket and wool hat, camp shoes, head lamp, etc.

FOOD: I will not be bringing a stove as there are two restaurants near the campsite, but I will have snacks for the road. Trail mix, energy bars, the usual.

FITNESS LEVEL: Beginning bikepacking types are welcome if they have the equipment, this is a pretty easy ride all told. For more experienced touring cyclists, would love to have you join as well, just to get a night out before the season turns and to share touring stories and maybe sit by the campfire.

GETTING HERE/PARKING: I plan to start at my house, directions will be given to those who sign up. It is close to where the Ride With GPS route shows as the start. If there are a few of us, starting point can be discussed among the group . The plan is to leave around 10AM, likely getting to camp between 1-2.

FEES: The camping is free at the hiker/biker campsite, so the only cost is food you get on the ride.