Cumberland Valley campsite

The Big Slackwater – Big Slackwater View loop from Martinsburg offers a truly unique touring cycling experience, tracing the historic Potomac River. You'll navigate a blend of riverine landscapes and forested areas, with the standout feature being the Big Slackwater section itself. Here, the path runs on elevated concrete walkways, giving you the sensation of cycling directly over the water, a truly immersive way to experience the river's dramatic cliffs and natural beauty.

This is a demanding ride, covering 89.3 miles (143.8 km) with 2751 feet (838 metres) of elevation gain, requiring about 10 hours and 44 minutes to complete. It's rated difficult, and some unpaved sections may even require you to push your bike. Plan for an early start to make the most of daylight, and ensure you have very good fitness for this challenging adventure. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions.

What makes this route special is its deep connection to the C&O Canal's history and engineering. The Big Slackwater section, rebuilt in 2012, restored a continuous car-free path where canal boats once entered the Potomac directly. This innovative construction, drilling into bedrock for the elevated path, allows cyclists to appreciate the river's power and the ingenuity required to navigate this historic waterway.

The Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Martinsburg offers a truly unique cycling experience, blending the historic C&O Canal Towpath with a challenging, extensive loop. You'll ride directly alongside the Potomac River on a distinctive concrete walkway, feeling as though you're floating on the water, with dramatic views of tall rocky cliffs. This route is a journey through varied terrain, from the flat, scenic canal path to more demanding sections with significant elevation changes outside the C&O Canal.

Planning your visit for this advanced touring cycling route requires a good level of fitness and an early start to tackle the 83.8 miles (134.8 km) and 2212 feet (674 metres) of climbing. The estimated duration is 10 hours and 27 minutes, so pack plenty of water and provisions. While the canal section is generally accessible, the full loop's difficulty means fair weather is ideal for a comfortable and safe ride.

This loop stands out for its historical significance and engineering marvels, particularly the Big Slackwater Restoration, which made a previously impassable section of the C&O Canal accessible again. Unlike many other parts of the canal, this route keeps you right on the river's edge, offering continuous scenic bike rides near Martinsburg with views that are hard to beat. It's a fantastic option for those seeking advanced touring cycling with a rich blend of nature and history.