Camping and Hostels. This has been an interesting trip with regards to our accommodations. At Ohiopyle we had the crazy hike to the campground but the camping was fine. At Cumberland we camped across from the YMCA and could take showers but we had to listen to trains and trucks all night. Yesterday we slept outside and heard the local fire sirens go off several times to call in volunteers. Dennis said most of the time it is for small grass fires and the town isn't willing to change tradition. Today we are at a hostel that we had to walk up a stone hill, cross train tracks and ride up a hill to the hostel. I already can hear the trains nearby. Not sure how quiet it will be tonight.
It was 43 when we started but it warmed up fast. It didn't take long before we were shedding clothes. The trail has been good but it was a lot more rocky and lined with tree roots which made it harder to ride on at times.
The trails got interesting wrapping around stone or where they completed a new trail. When Pam and I rode the trail we had a bypass that took us onto the road. The new trail connects the trail were there was no canal.
We passed two dams as well.
One thing I would like to comment on is the number of people we have met on the trail. When Pam and I did it we didn't run into that many people. This time we have stopped and talked to so many people. Like today we met a couple who flew in from Austin and rented bikes in Pittsburgh and are going to leave their bikes in DC and will then fly home. We also met a guy who has three kids and decided to do this on his own and has never rode more then 15 miles. He borrowed all his gear for the ride. But really it is too cool to see all these people riding the trail.
I totally remember all of all this, especially Sherpherdstown! That was where you had to pick up some water bottles to replace the missing Camelback. And where we had the delicious (albeit vegetarian) lunch at that little hippie cafe! So, you must be near Anteitem (sp?), and you must be only a day away from the finish of this ride? What perfect weather you lucked into! Enjoy your time on the trail - and I want to hear all about it when you get back.
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