Conococheague Aqueduct – Dam Number 5 loop from Williamsport

If you're seeking a truly rewarding challenge on two wheels, the Conococheague Aqueduct – Dam Number 5 loop from Williamsport is a difficult touring cycling route that delivers. Spanning 36.5 miles (58.8 km) with 480 feet (146 metres) of elevation gain, this ride typically takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes. It's an ideal choice for experienced cyclists looking for a demanding day out, blending historical exploration with natural beauty along the C&O Canal Towpath.

What to expect on Conococheague Aqueduct – Dam Number 5 loop from Williamsport

This journey unfolds as a dynamic ride along the Potomac River, offering expansive water views and leading you through heavily wooded stretches and past dramatic cliffs. A major highlight is the historic Conococheague Aqueduct, a remarkable 'water bridge' that carries the canal over Conococheague Creek. Further along, you'll reach Dam Number 5, a site with significant Civil War history. Be prepared for varied terrain; while some parts are smooth, sections of the C&O Canal Towpath can be rough, with tree roots, rocks, and chuckholes. This demanding ride requires very good fitness and a suitable touring bicycle, as you might even need to push your bike through some unpaved and difficult segments. The C&O Canal Towpath Williamsport terrain elevation difficulty makes it a true test.

Planning your visit

Williamsport serves as the convenient starting point for this loop, offering a unique concentration of canal structures. Cyclists should be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after heavy rain, so checking the weather beforehand is wise. Parking for Conococheague Aqueduct Williamsport cycling is available in the town, which itself is a historical site worth exploring before or after your ride.

Trail details

• Distance: 36.5 miles (58.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 480 feet (146 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 5 hours and 19 minutes