Sarah Zeller Canal Story
Warrior Expeditions has been sponsoring combat veterans on long distance expeditions since 2013. In 2021, we added the Great American Rail Trail to our program. Every year we send a group of veterans on a cross-country bike ride that commences in Washington DC, at the eastern terminus of the C&O Canal Trail.
Our yearly orientation is held at Lockhouse 6. During our 2 night stay we present the veterans with their donated gear and hold classes on how to troubleshoot their bikes and use their equipment. We enjoy the location and history associated with the lockhouse, as well as its proximity to the Italian restaurant across the street.
Photo by Roy Sewall
The scenery along the towpath is striking and always remarked upon as one of the most beautiful sections of the veterans’ cross-country ride. Their first two nights on the trail are spent at the Calico Rocks and North Mountain Campsites. These designated campsites are well maintained grassy areas complete with water pumps, picnic tables, fire rings, and portable toilets. Additionally, they are adjacent to the C&O Canal which makes for great opportunities to watch the wildlife along the waterfront.
Their third night is spent at Lock 70 Schoolhouse Inn, a remodeled classroom near Lock 70 that is spacious and is right off trail. Andy Mackert is a big supporter of our program and generously discounts our stay. While the veterans are staying at the Schoolhouse we help troubleshoot any gear or bike issues before sending them off on the GAP trail the following morning.
Photo by Paul Graunke
In 2022, we added the 9/11 Memorial hike-or-bike Trail, which also follows the C&O towpath. In the years that our veterans have either hiked or biked that trail, they always comment that the C&O is one of their favorite segments.