pennpaul

I'm trying to plan a ride from Point of Rocks to White's Ferry to Harpers Ferry then cross back to the C&O and head back down to Point of Rocks, but I don't know that area of VA and how safe the roads are.

From White's Ferry, I was going to connect to take the W&OD to its end at Purcerville, and then Komoot suggested this route. It has me taking 690 to 9 to 32 and then the 340. Are those roads OK or should I look for something else? I'm OK riding in the road, but are the cars in there OK with me?

Thanks,
Paul

jpescatore

It has been a couple of years since I did a loop in that area, but I think 671/Hillsboro Road is a better choice for getting from Purcellville to Harper's Ferry. The route here isn't exactly what I did - I started at Whites Ferry, went to Purcellville, came down Hillsboro Road from the end of the W&OD, and I just used the C&O Canal on the MD side.

I drive on 9 when going out to Appalachian Trail parking spots, I'm not a fan of biking on it for most sections. But, I'm not a fast climber!

Also, if you were trying to loop it, since the pedestrian bridge from Harper's Ferry across the river to the Towpath is still closed, you'd have to bike over the 340 bridge, or use the walkway. Your route stops at Harpers Ferry, so probably not an issue.

pennpaul

Thank you. This is approximately what Google maps suggested, too. Komoot is obviously trying to off me. I like to scout my rides by car if I can so I will have to convince the family to go for a nice scenic drive.


The pedestrian bridge has now been fixed:

https://www.npr.org/local/305/2020/0...ment-last-year

Paul

Marylander

The foot bridge is definitely open now. There were a lot of folks crossing there this past sunday.

jpescatore

Great news about the foot bridge!

Brargas

Great news about the footbridge!