Day 8: Williamsport, MD

Date:                     July 16, 2019

Distance:               14

Average Speed:      8.1 mph

Maximum Speed:    20.4 mph

Feet Climbed:        241

Day Trip:               Harpers Ferry to Williamsport

Below is a picture of Chris with Steve, our host (owner) of the B&B where we stayed in Harpers Ferry (HF).  He made us a perfect breakfast that started us off for the day.  HF is on the WV side, which is the south side of the Potomac River.  Williamsport, where we are tonight, is on the north side of the Potomac River which is in MD. Throughout this region are historical markers that remain in place, particularly, battlefield landmarks for the Civil War. In fact, both states WV and MD are boarder states of the Mason-Dixon line - 19th century residents of these states were split in their views; some joined the Union Army, while others joined the Confederate Army.  

Scrambled Eggs, Sausage Patties, English Muffins and Cantaloupe

Chris shuttled us to Williamsport after breakfast.

B&B in Williamsport.  Backside.

So the plan today was to get shuttled to Williamsport and check into our B&B early, which we did.   I was feeling quite good, so I wanted to get out on the trail to test my health.  At some point, I needed to get back in the saddle and today was that day.   Steve and I rode 14 miles on the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal Trail.  It was 100% covered with trees and off road.  The downside is that it is an unpaved trail, but in good condition and we knew this.

We went on a leisurely ride carrying very little weight. 

I hydrated before getting on the bike and ate a banana and granola bar.  I was carrying two nectarines, another banana and salt pills.  And lots of water.  I wasn't taking any chances.

Eating a food bar.

Conditions of the C&O Trail this year is considered 'very good'.  This is good news for us as we ride on.

Steve stops for a pic

Construction on the Trail

The Trail was perfect all but a little construction going on.  We were held off for about 15 minutes.

Very professional guys

 Stopped off to see some kids cooling down

View of the Potomac River

We rode 14 miles - it was wonderful.  It felt great to get back on the bikes.  Tomorrow we plan to ride 23 of the original 58 miles that we had planned.  Steve has insisted we ease in slowly.  So, we have a shuttle in place to drive us 23 miles from the end destination - Paw Paw.  I agree taking it slow is wise, but also feel ready to get back on the Trials.

We stopped to have lunch at Desert Rose Cafe, but before we went to the local Pharmacy to buy a BP cuff.  I opted for a smaller wrist unit because of carrying it on the bike.  We were told by the pharmacist that this unit was pretty accurate despite the early problems with wrist units.

Taking my BP

135/77

OK, perhaps I'm going overboard ...

136/76

I basically took my BP as I came off the trail.  These BP readings are pretty much my normal.

Steve drinking his medicine.

Great day - feeling relaxed

Steve's Turkey Sandwich (w/Gluten Bread)

Di's Turkey Sandwich (Gluten Free)

Steve brought his SS straw

There are a lot of like signage all over this area.  Many battles in the Civil War were fought in this area.

This is what the Trail should look like tomorrow (below).  We have been told the majority is covered by trees.  This will dramatically reduce our sun exposure and lower the temperature undercover.  We plan to start our ride early tomorrow with short mileage (23 miles).  We should be on the Trail by 9:30a and off the Trail by 12:00 noon. Right before the high temperatures set in and thunderstorms commence. Oh and Steve offered to carry some of my heavier items from my bags.  Not sure how long this will last - but I'll take it! :)

Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal Trail

We are off to Paw Paw tomorrow.  We are staying at the Bikepath B&B. Dan is the owner/in keeper.  He is a retired guy who rides the C&O everyday.