Ride the C & O Canal Towpath and the Mount Vernon Trail

Many people refer to the towpath, but what is it exactly? The towpath is the dirt and stone path that runs 184.5 miles along the C&O Canal, where visitors can walk, run, or bike the distance between Georgetown, D.C. and Cumberland, MD. It was originally built for the canal mules to walk beside the canal as they “towed” the canal boats through the waterway. Today, it is a popular recreational trail for the millions who visit each year.

The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile paved multi-use trail that stretches from George Washington's Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island. The trail links Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria, to Arlington County and major Potomac River bridge crossings into the District of Columbia. The Mount Vernon Trail is a popular recreation resource and critical regional transportation connection. The trail hosts over one million pedestrians and bicyclists annually. During peak periods, the trail north of Alexandria is one of the most heavily used multi-use trails in the country. The National Park Service originally constructed the Mount Vernon Trail in the 1970s and 1980s.

On the first day (10/22) of this trip, we'll ride the first 14 miles of the C & O Canal from the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center (MD) to Georgetown, have lunch, and return to Great Falls. Total distance: 28 miles. On the second day (10/23), we'll do the entire length of Mount Vernon from George Washington's home to Roosevelt Island. Total distance roundtrip: 36 miles. We'll have lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant after the ride.

Disclaimer: GetHiking Charlottesville Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were riding alone. With your RSVP, you agree with this disclaimer.

Weather Forecast: TBD.

Notes:

1. This is a no drop ride. Pace is 8-12 mph. At each crossing on the trail, we will stop and consolidate the group on the other side of the trail.
2. Reference guide: https://www.traillink.com/trail/chesapeake--ohio-canal-national-historical-park/ and https://www.traillink.com/trail/mount-vernon-trail/.
3. Suggested trip equipment: helmet, cool/wet-weather gear, repair kit/spare tube/pump, cash, cell phone, ID/car keys, sunglasses, snack/drink, and cable lock. Leave change of clothes and water (for rinsing) in your vehicle.
4. There is a parking fee ($10-$20) at the Great Falls Tavern VC. Bring your America The Beautiful Pass for free parking.
5. The address for the Mount Vernon Trail Trailhead and parking lot is 146 George Washington Memorial Parkway, Alexandria.
6. A tentative itinerary or cancellation notice will be posted 3-5 days before the ride. You have the option of doing one or both days.