Greg & Camille Go Bike

Things were wet at Killiansburg Cave campsite. We did our best to shake off water and pat down the tent with towels, but we just accepted nothing being 100% dry all the time. Besides, the 25 mph wind would dry us off. Greg’s sister Erika had recommended we explore Shepherdstown, VA, so naturally we hunted down a diner for breakfast on the other side of the Potamac. Betty’s seemed to be one of those community cornerstones; a sign touted Betty Grimes’s long period of dedicated service up until 2021 when she passed. We opted to eat outside much to the concern of the staff as it had been raining off and on in the morning. After our usual omelet, French toast, and coffee, we were back Maryland side on the trail. Shepherdstown was quiet and cute; we certainly hope to return for a longer visit. 

We had a long day ahead of us: 80 miles to DC. We knew it was doable, but we would have to keep moving. Having skipped showers for the past two days, we were eager to fulfill the distance. The trees provided invaluable shield from the wind, but this protection came at a cost. The constantly falling leaves created a picturesque ride, but the falling walnuts were a little more troublesome, especially riding over. We ran into a few fallen trees where we had to cyclocross our bikes. Camille was getting weary by the end of the C & O trail and rejoiced when the trail connected to a paved multi-use path near the city. 

We had dedicated bike lanes almost the entire way traversing through some hilly streets and downtown traffic. Our resting place for the night was a strategic location, just a mile away from Camille’s favorite Ethiopian restaurant. After the most amazing shower, we wandered over to Habesha, catching scenes of the DC drag races on the way. Another milestone down, just two days until we were home!