The best traffic-free bike rides in Fulton County

This part of the original Pennsylvania Turnpike was bypassed in 1968 to ease traffic congestion. The three tunnels were part of a failed railroad project. Now nature reclaims the area back. The surface is cracked and overgrown with plants. Watch out for glass splinters. The tunnels are full with graffiti. The entrance of the Rays Hill Tunnel became popular after the post-apocalyptic movie 'The Road' based on the book by Cormack McCarthy. It serves as a great setting for an apocalyptic scenery.

Bring some lights. The tunnels are dark

Dam No. 5 is located along the C&O Canal Towpath near mile 106, between Williamsport and Hancock, Maryland. Constructed between 1833 and 1835, it was built to raise water levels in the Potomac River and ensure a steady supply for the canal's operation. Like the other dams along the canal, Dam No. 5 was crucial for maintaining navigable water levels for canal boats, allowing them to bypass the river’s natural rapids and shallow areas. During the Civil War, Dam No. 5 became a strategic target for Confederate forces, who attempted to destroy it multiple times in an effort to disrupt Union transportation and supply lines. In December 1861, Confederate General Stonewall Jackson led an attack on the dam, but despite several attempts, Union troops successfully defended it, keeping the canal operational. Today, Dam No. 5 remains a picturesque and historically significant site along the towpath. The area is known for its scenic views of the Potomac, with rushing water cascading over the dam and wildlife such as bald eagles, herons, and fish frequently spotted.

Big Pool is located near mile 113 along the C&O Canal Towpath. Unlike the man-made sections of the canal, Big Pool is a natural body of water that was incorporated into the canal’s design to serve as a water storage area for boat operations. Spanning about 1.5 miles in length and up to 200 feet wide, it provided an easier passage for canal boats compared to the narrower, hand-dug sections of the waterway. Today, Big Pool is a peaceful and picturesque landmark for those exploring the C&O Canal Towpath. It is also adjacent to Fort Frederick State Park, one of the most significant historical sites along the towpath. Cyclists can easily take a short detour to visit the 18th-century fort, which was built in 1756 during the French and Indian War and later played roles in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. The fort’s well-preserved stone walls and reconstructed barracks provide a glimpse into Maryland’s frontier history.

Great food right on trail

The ruins of this old cement factory are right along the side of the C&O Trail, and an informative signpost details the history. The Round Top Cement Mill was operative between 1838 and 1909, and was constructed opportunistically during the digging of the canal when workers encountered a pocket of argillomagenisian limestone.

Built in 1838, the mill capitalized on the discovery of high-quality limestone near Roundtop Hill. This discovery proved fortuitous, as the limestone was perfectly suited for producing hydraulic cement, a crucial building material of the time. Cement produced here found its way to iconic structures like the Washington Monument, the Cabin John Bridge, and even the U.S. Capitol dome, leaving a lasting mark on American history.

Visitors can explore charming shops, enjoy local eateries, and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The C&O Canal, a historic waterway, passes right through town, offering opportunities for scenic boat launches or peaceful walks along the towpath.