C & O Canal Towpath trail, section #2

Overview: Civil War history comes alive on this section of the C & O Canal Towpath trail. Civil War enthusiasts will recognize such names as Harpers Ferry, Antietam, Falling Waters, and Williamsport. Trail enthusiasts will recognize the names of a couple famous trails that intersect with the C & O Canal Towpath in this section including the Appalachian Trail and Maryland Heights Hiking Trail.
Although the trail is plenty remote and peaceful throughout this section, it also passes near some well known towns such as Brunswick, Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, and Williamsport. It is fairly easy to find food and drinks along this section of the trail, but it's still a good idea to come prepared.
As with the rest of the C & O Canal Towpath trail, camping sites are plentiful in this region, but they are heavily used on summer weekends, so plan ahead. Fortunately, in addition to camping, are numerous lodging options along this 52 mile stretch of the trail. It is advisable to reserve your lodging in advance. For more information about camping and lodging along the trail, check out the website links included with this guide.
If you just want to hike or ride this section, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from points on the trail. Both the MARC and Amtrak trains serve this area, but bikes may not be allowed on either, so be sure to check in advance. It is, however possible to get a ride here by train or car and then rent bikes in Williamsport or Brunswick.
Of course the best option is to ride the entire trail from Georgetown to Cumberland or even add on the Great Allegheny Passage and go all the way to Pittsburgh. I assure you, it is an incredible ride.

Tips: - If you are biking, you will want a trail bike such as a mountain bike or hybrid w/ trail tires.

- Although this stretch of trail has a few towns along the way, do not depend on those for all your provisions or bike repair needs. Come prepared with food, water, and a rudimentary do-it-yourself repair kit.

- Even if you plan to do all your trail use during the day, it is a good idea to bring lights of some kind. This way, you're prepared if you get caught out on the trail after dark.

- Give yourself plenty of time to explore. There are many wonderful natural and historic sites along the way with signs to read, animals to see, and pictures to take. Enjoy at a leisurely pace.

- If you are going the length of the trail or all the way to Pittsburgh, this section may be a good one to stay at a campground with a shower since there are a couple private campgrounds with bathroom/shower facilities more readily available on this stretch than on some of the others.