Originally Posted by
u235
In my opinion, the C&O is a mixed bag with varying conditions. In my opinion, that is what I want and makes it fun! I've only taken it from Whites Ferry north and that was on purpose. I enjoyed the C&O more then the PA side to the burgh portion which I thought was boring although I was getting sore (another unrelated thread here).
I don't know if you are from the DC/NOVA area but I've taken the Fairfax CCT from Occoquan to Pickets and back many times. Same mixed bag but there are some sections of asphalt that are are severally rooted and it is brutal. I'd rather have mud, gravel and roots than that.
I agree the GAP gets a bit tedious after a while, but you have to admit the path surface itself is unparalleled. Perhaps it gets boring because you aren't constantly entertained by the uneven surface of the C&O. I ride the paved CCT and MVT almost every day, and the only way to deal with the harsh root ridges is with wider, softer tires.