Heritage Hike and Dinner 2023

Join fellow canal lovers for colorful autumn walk in the Cumberland area October 21.  This year will feature three one-way hikes of different lengths. After the hike, a happy hour, catered dinner, and evening program will be hosted by the Allegany Museum.

Hotel

Because Cumberland is a long drive for many members, the Association has reserved a block of rooms at the Fairfield Inn for the nights of October 20 & 21. The rate for our block of rooms   is $134 per night plus tax. Reservations must be made by September 20 to get the group rate. Call the Fairfield Inn desk at 301.876.6037 to reserve at the group rate.

Hiking options

That morning’s Heritage Hike will start at the canal terminus area near the NPS visitor center at 13 Canal Street.

• 10 a.m. – The first bus will depart to drop hikers off at Spring Gap for an 11-mile trek and at Lock 75 for a nine-mile walk.
• 11 a.m. – The second bus will transport hikers to Mexico Farms for a 5.5-mile walk back to Cumberland.

Hikers will sign an Association waiver before boarding. Bring a bag lunch and a beverage.

Dinner and happy hour

The Allegany Museum at 3 Pershing Street will host the dinner and evening presentation in its beautiful white-walnut paneled ballroom. In addition, the museum offers two floors of exhibits showcasing the area’s history. Happy hour starts at 5 p.m. A cash bar will be available. Dinner follows at 6 p.m.

The evening program will feature Jim Shea, author of Get Up and Ride, a humorous story of two friends’ cycling adventure on the GAP and C&O Canal. Jim also manages a website and blog of the same title.

Payment options (Deadline October 13)

• Download the PDF form and mail a check.
• Visit the online payment page.

Steam train

If you stay overnight, you may want to ride the popular steam train excursions from Cumberland to Frostburg. Early reservations are strongly recommended. The trains run 11:30 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday. These October trips will likely sell out. Visit the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad website to make reservations.

You can find visitor information for the area at https://www.mdmountainside.com/.

If you have questions, contact Jonnie Lefebure at programs@candocanal.org.