About the map

There are hundreds of miles of paved roads in Washington County, almost all excellent for bicycling. This map was developed to help you plan an infinite variety of bicycle trips along the best of these roads.There is a great deal of useful information on the map. Major creeks are shown as are all towns. The roads along the bicycle routes and all intersecting roads are shown and labeled.

Highlighted information includes eight suggested loop tours which are shown in color. The name and location of points of interest is also included.

The C&O Canal Towpath and the Western MD Rail Trail are well known biking routes in the area. Both are shown on the county map.

Services

All that you need for your tour in Washington County is readily available in Hagerstown, and the towns and rural crossroads along the suggested bicycle routes. Restaurants and markets in the towns offer a variety of foods to keep you pedaling. If you want to spend several days in the area, you may choose to stay at one of the campgrounds in the county. Or, you might decide on more comfortable accommodations in Hagerstown, Williamsport, or Hancock.

Bicycle shops in Hagerstown, Hancock and Williamsport can help you with your bicycle needs should you have any problems. In case of emergency, call 911 to reach the police, fire department or ambulance service.

Safety Tips

The bicycle is legally considered a vehicle in Maryland. Bicyclists have the full rights and responsibilities of roadway users and are subject to all regulations governing a vehicle.
Follow the tips below to make sure of a safe trip along the roads of Washington County.

Always ride on the right. Obey all traffic signs and signals. Avoid night riding, especially in rural areas. When with a group, ride single file. Watch for sand, loose gravel, and wet leaves. Always wear a helmet.

Terrain

Washington County encompasses the slopes and valley floor of the Great Valley. The Maryland segment is called the Hagerstown Valley while south of the Potomac in West
Virginia and Virginia is called the Shenandoah Valley. North of the Mason-Dixon line in Pennsylvania, it’s known as the Cumberland Valley. From the gentle rises in the central valley around Hagerstown to the steeper hills of the western and eastern slopes, the terrain can be generally classified as rolling.

Climate

Termed “temperate”, the climate of Washington County is good for bicycling from early spring to late fall. The transition seasons are particularly good for bicycling with cool morning temperatures and sunny days. Summer is pleasant although July tends to be the hottest month. Even then, bicycling early in the day is comfortable. The average annual rainfall is about 39 inches with heaviest rainfall occurring during
May and June.