Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Antietam National Battlefield
Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Antietam National Battlefield
3.4
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riders
Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Antietam National Battlefield
08:50
112km
430m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
40.4 km
Big Slackwater View
Highlight • Trail
After a flood destroyed the …
Tip by
41.2 km
Potomac River Trail
Highlight • Trail
42.0 km
Big Slackwater
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
46.2 km
Dam 4 C&O
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
83.2 km
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Lock 34
Highlight • Historical Site
84.7 km
Harpers Ferry Tunnel and Railroad Bridges
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
84.7 km
Staircase and bridge from trail to Harper's Ferry
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
85.4 km
View of Potomac River Rapids (C&O Canal Towpath)
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
112 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
91.5 km
12.2 km
4.46 km
2.83 km
1.54 km
Surfaces
87.1 km
10.6 km
9.09 km
5.13 km
666 m
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Elevation
Highest point (150 m)
Lowest point (70 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 3 July
39°C
23°C
45 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly epic day out on two wheels, the Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Antietam National Battlefield is a difficult gravel biking route that delivers. Covering 69.9 miles (112.5 km) with 1425 feet (434 metres) of elevation gain, this ride will challenge you for about 8 hours and 50 minutes. It's a serious undertaking for experienced riders seeking a blend of history and stunning river scenery, making it one of the more demanding Big Slackwater loop gravel biking routes.
What to expect on Big Slackwater View – Big Slackwater loop from Antietam National Battlefield
What makes this route special is its incredible variety. You'll cycle through the historic Antietam National Battlefield, passing significant Civil War sites, before hitting the challenging gravel roads that define much of the loop. The real highlight, though, is the Big Slackwater section of the C&O Canal Towpath. Here, you'll ride on a unique concrete pathway, sometimes elevated, right alongside the Potomac River, feeling like you're cycling directly on the water. Be prepared for some significant hills and potentially unpaved, difficult segments where you might even need to push your bike; this ride is definitely for those with very good fitness and a love for hard-earned views.
Planning your visit
Planning your visit requires a good look at the map. While specific parking details aren't provided, starting from Antietam National Battlefield is the logical choice, so look for parking options there. This is a long day in the saddle, so ensure you carry plenty of water and nutrition, especially during warmer months. Given the duration, an early start is highly recommended to complete the loop comfortably before dark. The trail's diverse terrain means you should check weather conditions carefully before heading out.
Trail details
- Distance: 69.9 miles (112.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 1425 feet (434 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 8 hours and 50 minutes
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