Preparation for the C&O Canal and GAP Trail
This trip is one of my favorites of all time. If it’s your first time planning this epic ride, here are some things you can do in preparation for the C&O Canal and GAP Trail.
Having prepared for and done this trip myself, my firsthand experience translates into sound advice. Taking some time to get prepared can save you some unnecessary hiccups along the way.
This 333-mile trail is not your typical bikepacking trail, it’s a rail trail. Old, unused railways have been converted to a trail that’s suitable for walking, hiking, backpacking and cycling.
The trail goes through many wooded areas as well as small towns and cities.
Physical preparation for the C&O and GAP trail.
Everyone is different when it comes to how much physical preparation they need to complete this ride. I didn’t ride my bike on a daily or even weekly basis to prep, but other’s may need that sort of conditioning.
You need to have done at least a little training before heading out on this multi-day bike ride. Once you know how many miles you plan on doing each day, base your training on that.
Make sure you’ve at least covered your maximum miles a few times in the weeks and month leading up to your trip. It helps to give your gear a test run too.
Mechanical preparation for the C&O Canal and GAP Trail.
This step is of critical importance when getting ready for any long bike trip. I have basic knowledge on how to fix my bike and feel confident on my rides.
You at least need to know how to change a tire tube but I would recommend you get a little more expertise if you are not familiar.
Taking a course on bike repair can drastically change the outcome of even the most minor mechanical problem.
Logistical preparation for the C&O Canal and Gap Trail
You will need to have your daily mileage and camping options mapped out but leave room for any delays along the way.
Prebook any accommodations–this is a popular trail and things get booked up.
I stayed at the free hiker/biker campsites, but if you plan on staying at an actual campground you should make reservations beforehand.
Have a plan in case some gets injured or separated from the group.
Give a friend or family member back home a copy of your itinerary–just in case.
Gearing up for your trip.
The gear you bring will depend on how much you plan on using services in the towns you will be passing through.
For instance, I brought a camp stove for morning coffee and the occasional freeze-dried meal. I ran into other cyclists who relied on coffee and meals in town, so they did not bring a stove or cook gear.
Keep in mind that I planned on camping every night except one. Many cyclists spend every night at some kind of lodging in one of the trail towns.
Below is a list of gear I brought on my most recent trip on the C&O Canal and GAP Trail.
Gear to pack
Two very important things you need!
- A decent bike:
You need to have a bike that can handle you and your gear for 333+ miles. I took a gravel bike, but a hybrid bike or touring bike will be fine too.
Make sure you bike has been tuned up before you head out on your trip. It’s also a good idea to take a practice run somewhere to make sure all your gear is in working order and you’re comfortable on your bike.
2. A decent bikepacking/backpacking tent:
Don’t get one of those cheapo tents from Wal-Mart or someplace like that–you will regret it. Make sure your tent has a high “bathtub.” It will most likely rain.
I use the MSR Freelite 1 Person Tent, and it’s covered my tail in the roughest conditions. You can see it in the photo above with my bike.
Here is a list I used to prepare for the C&O Canal and GAP trail.
Cycling Gear:
- A decent bike
- Cycling helmet: make sure it fits well and is comfortable
- Panniers: The Ortlieb ones I use are highly rated.
- Rear rack
- Handlebar bag
- Bike light
- Cycling gloves
- Bike repair kit and tools
- Extra tire tube
- Bike lock: make sure it’s a good one.
- Water bottles
Camping gear:
This is similar to many backpacking checklists.
- A decent tent
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Stove/fuel
- Cook set/utensils
- Water filter
- Headlamp
- First aid kit
Personal Gear:
- Maps/GPS
- Toiletries
- Clothing
- Rain Gear
Your level of preparation for the C&O Canal and GAP trail.
Each individual will have a different amount of time and energy needed to prepare for this trip. If this is not your first rodeo, I hope I gave some helpful tips.
If you have very little or no experience, I recommend you do more research into what to expect on the C&O Canal and GAP Trail.
Nothing is worse than going on a bikepacking trip and feeling unprepared, so I hope you took some notes.
Taking the time to get your act together beforehand can make your trip much easier and with less hiccups.
Feeling prepared for any trip brings a certain amount of peace-of-mind. Hope to see you on the trail
