Originally Posted by
cyccommute
Not on the C&O Canal, in my experience. I didn't find a whole lot of "what I needed" along the trail on the section I rode (from Harper's Ferry to Cumberland). At least not a reasonable distance from the trail. I even made a detour from Williamsport to Clear Springs (to find a hotel on a cold rainy day) and didn't find anything. Even at Harper's Ferry, I had to do a 14 mile detour find a grocery store.
Even on the GAP, it was a bit difficult to find "what you need".
On the C&O you might have to ride a little farther off the trail to get food, but there are towns and grocery stores. I didn't find it difficult at all. You may have to plan a little, but it isn't hard. I ride the GAP often since I live near it, and honestly, it isn't difficult to find food. Once again, a little advance planning helps, but it wasn't hard.