The day begins at the Paw Paw Tunnel Trailhead.

The stage concludes in Williamsport at the Williamsport Visitors Center.

The stage kicks off in fashion, plunging immediately into the Paw Paw Tunnel. This is a rare section of the C&O that breaks from the Potomac, cutting directly across instead. It's also a section that unhelpfully moves in a generally northward direction--unhelpful, given that our eventual goal is DC. Bill's Place in the small town of Little Orleans is likely to be closed when we pass through, so it's a long way to potential food in Hancock. This is quiet, peaceful riding and you and your fellow relayers will likely have it all to yourself for long stretches. Once you finally reach the town of Hancock, though, you'll have earned a break, and we'll have one waiting for you:

Refreshment Stop - Main Street Hancock & 1878 RiverRun B&B - Details TBA

With much gratitude to Queli and team for their hospitality, we'll head back to the trail, with a little less than half the stage still remaining. While I70 encroaches upon the C&O at points over this next section, the idyllic qualities largely persist. The biggest highlight along the remaining miles is Fort Frederick State Park, which may coax you into a detour. From there, it's one last eastward push to the finish line in Williamsport.

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Little Orleans (15 miles), Hancock (31.6 miles), and Fort Frederick State Park (43.7 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Food will be available for purchase in Hancock. 

Take Heed: The Paw Paw Tunnel, at the beginning of this stage, is more than a kilometer long! A flashlight may come in handy. Taps at the C&O campgrounds are likely to be shut off for the season.