Guest Post by Alyssa Theodore
Whether you like an adrenaline-pumping trail ride, a level out-and-back that everyone in the family can master, or something in-between, Brunswick has the bike experience for you. Here’s everything you need to know to get pedaling.
The Trails:
C&O Canal Towpath
The biking equivalent of a Sunday drive…
Brunswick’s section of the historic C&O Canal Towpath (Mile Marker 55) is a stretch of flat, recently-resurfaced trail shaded by nearly unbroken tree canopy that is perfect for everything from hardtail mountain bikes to training wheels.. Head west and in 5 miles you’ll enjoy views of the Potomac River and the chance to cross the railroad bridge footpath into Harper’s Ferry. Head east, and make the Brunswick Family Campground your destination for a picnic and some wading before your return trip. Or, continue on to Point of Rocks (MM 48.2) to explore where the canal and the B & O Railroad squeak alongside each other in an area narrower than the width of a baseball diamond. NOTE: a washed out culvert at MM 52.5 detours riders down a pathway to a temporary low-water crossing (i.e. little wooden bridge).
Brunswick Crossing-Valley Trail
Work up just enough sweat to earn a beer at Smoketown Brewing Stationor an ice cream cone at Towpath Creamery…
Pick up the bottom of this paved trail on Brunswick St. across from West End Park. From there it’s a gradual climb up to the Brunswick Crossing housing development, crossing and recrossing the ? Creek over picturesque wooden bridges. Continue your circuit through the neighborhood and back and you can clock up to 26 miles!
River’s Edge Trail
Because you didn’t mount that GoPro on your helmet for nothing…
You’ll find the trailhead for this bone-rattling opportunity near the intersection of Cummins Dr. and 13th Ave., just past the driveway entrance for the Brunswick Middle School. The first section of the trail overlaps with the high school’s cross-country running course, then takes off into hilly terrain with, in the words of one rider, “some beautifully designed switchbacks.”
Click here for a map of Historic Downtown Brunswick: City of Brunswick Downtown MAP
Other Resources to Know:
Brunswick Family Campground
100 S. Maple Ave. (MM 54)<br /> | 301-834-9952<br />
If you haven’t invested in your own bike yet, yours is in the shop, or you need extra wheels for visitors, you can rent bikes from River & Trail Outfitters.
Beans in the Belfry
122 W. Potomac St.<br /> | 301-834-7178
Take advantage of Beans soon-to-be-installed bike parking and their bike washing station to rinse off the dust and relax with a drink or snack after a ride.
Three Points Cycles
5 W. Potomac St.<br /> | 301-834-7199
Repairs, gear, helmet, and bikes to drool over. Quick dry clothing and Brunswick paraphenalia. Refuel on gels and liquids found here!
Towpath Creamery
12 S. Maple Ave.<br /> | 301-969-6480
In addition to a post-ride ice cream, you’ll find a variety of pack-able snacks, first-aid paraphernalia, and other trail essentials.