After leaving you all with a bit of a cliffhanger, the decision is made – my (formerly) slow and chill C&O ride now gets another 18 miles of riding to some sweet sweet roofed lodging at my cabin. But that means I cross into West Virginia where I encounter something I’ve never dealt with before. Explicit tag earned for this episode…

• The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It'll be on the YouTube channeland here at pedalshift.net/live.
• ALSO, if you aren’t subscribed to and listening to the fantastic Lael Wilcox’s podcast, I can’t recommend it enough. She’s trying to break the world record for cycling the world and is audio journaling it every day. She’s recently completed her eastern US leg and by the time you hear this will be in Europe working her way east. It’s so good - laelwilcox.net for the details. She is a legend and this is elite level stuff!

Introduction

- Riding to the cabin due to favorable weather conditions

Travel Plans and Preparations

- Description of the route and challenges ahead

- Discussion on safety measures and time management

- Strategy for avoiding bad weather and deciding to ride immediately

On the Road Experiences

- Reflections on the ride: pain, headwinds, and dealing with a truck that rolls coal

- Encounter with challenging road conditions and gearing issues

- Insights on energy management and navigating difficult climbs

Scenic and Safe Routes

- Decision-making on route choices to avoid hazards

- Progress update and estimated distance to the destination

Final Leg of the Journey

- Description of the last few miles and expected challenges

- Nearing the end: checking distance and anticipating weather

Arrival and Reflections

- Arrival at the cabin and initial feelings

- Immediate plans and reflections on the day's ride

Zero Day

- Announcement of a zero day due to bad weather

- Observations on the weather conditions and impact on the trail

Closing Thoughts

- Strategy for the upcoming ride to the train station

- Gratitude for making the right decision and empathy for those still on the trail

• Miles biked 18

• F bombs tossed 1

• Zero days 1

• Heavy rain storms dodged 2

• Flats 0

I’ve taken listeners on a bunch of rides on the C&O (including the current one!), so it's worth revisiting my guide to riding it. In the first of two parts, it’s an audio guide to cycling the C&O Canal towpath whether you’re a first timer of a full on expert. Originally podcast November 11, 2021.

After a surprisingly fast start for a planned slow tour, it was time to head down trail. But the muddy trail conditions of the night before don’t improve with more rain, and the forecast looks pretty wet and plans… well, they’re meant to change on a big bike trip!

• The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It'll be on the YouTube channeland here at pedalshift.net/live.

Morning Setup and Reflections

- Description of the camping spot and the decision-making process regarding legal camping sites.

- Reflections on being overextended the previous night and the challenges of finding a good campsite.

Weather and Trail Conditions

- Noting the weather holding off the rain for a few more hours.

- Observations about the better trail surface and concerns about muddy sections post-Paw Paw Tunnel.

Camp Setup and Gear Adjustments

- Detailed account of morning activities, including packing and adjusting gear.

- Challenges with the fork bag and adjustments made to the tent setup.

Journey Begins

- Initial miles covered with observations of the surroundings and the condition of the trail.

- Encounters with traffic and reflections on the proximity of roads to the trail.

Trail Experiences

- Encounters with other cyclists, particularly a group of LE officers, and reflections on group riding dynamics.

- Decision to avoid a large group of cyclists to maintain a personal pace and experience.

Weather Check and Gear Adjustments

- Checking weather forecasts and preparing for rain by adjusting clothing and gear.

- Clearing fenders from mud and dealing with bike maintenance issues on the trail.

Scenic Observations

- Descriptions of the flora and fauna observed along the trail.

- Reflection on missing the red bud season but enjoying the current wildflower bloom.

Paw Paw Tunnel Experience

- Detailed ride through of the Paw Paw Tunnel, including conditions and the tunnel's history.

- Observations on the descaling and maintenance efforts.

Trail Challenges and Maintenance

- Continued struggles with mud and fender issues.

- Descriptions of efforts to keep the bike in good condition amid challenging trail conditions.

Decision Points

- Considering various options for the day's ride and the impact of weather on the plans.

- Reflections on potential stops and the possibility of a zero-mile day due to expected rain.

Hancock

- Arrival in Hancock and decision-making process about accommodations and next steps.

- Consideration of resupply options and potential camping sites.

Concluding Thoughts

- Reflection on the day's challenges and successes.

- Cliffhanger about the decision on where to stay for the night and future plans for the ride.

• Miles biked 42
• Trail surfaces 3
• Liters of water purified 2.5
• Decisions to be made on where to spend the night 1
• Flats 0