June 12, 2025
Turtles, Trenches and Trailside Adventure
Day 3: Turtles, Trenches, and Trailside Adventures
Today was one of those classic split-personality tour days—morning said, “Let’s ride bikes and see some nature!” and afternoon said, “Let’s roast in a mosquito sauna!” But let’s back up…
I kicked things off from CrossTrails Hostel, feeling fresh and making good time on the trail. Nature rolled out the welcome mat—4 deer (all too fast for a photo op, of course), 2 turtles, and an absolute army of birds, squirrels, and rabbits. I think Disney is filming a sequel out here.
Along the way, I met Jessica, a fellow adventurer biking from DC to Oregon. She’d spent the night at a hiker-biker site and was slightly unnerved by some unexpected coyote company. For the record, those sites are first-come, first-served and totally free—with well water, a table, porta-potty, and fire ring. They’re one of the trail’s best features —just maybe bring a coyote whistle?
Janice and I reunited just two miles before the end of my leg, and we detoured to Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg. If you’re anywhere near this section of the trail, go. It's well worth the history-infused detour. (I shared more on Facebook here if you want a peek.)
After lunch at Captain Benner’s on Main Street, Janice took the baton and hopped on the trail while I drove to Williamsport. That’s when the weather took a turn. The sun cranked up to full blast, the humidity turned the trail into a steambath, and the mosquitoes threw a welcome party. Janice powered through a section of cracked concrete with cliffs on one side and the river on the other—less "scenic trail," more "don’t look down." But she did enjoy passing an old mill, so points for historic charm!
Meanwhile, I ignored local advice and rode a section heading south (my only option unless I suddenly develop teleportation skills). I saw 2 more deer—including a tiny fawn without a mother in sight—and another pair of turtles. Either these turtles are following me or it’s just turtle season out here.
Tonight, we’re tucked into the Hagerstown KOA—highly recommended by our DC host, but wow, it’s a long trek off the trail. Not something we'd choose on bikes again, but hey, the AC is working and sleep is in our near future.
Photos coming soon. Too tired to line them up with the story—imagine them as a visual puzzle you get to solve.
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Tomorrow’s forecast looks promising: highs in the mid-80s, small chance of rain late. We’re off to Little Orleans, a 40–44 mile day depending on detours, navigation errors, and snack breaks.
Onward!
Today's ride: 44 miles (71 km)
Total: 60 miles (97 km)
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