Reply to Supplies needed

I'm thinking of riding about 300 miles on the trail over the course of 5 or 6 days this coming March. I was wondering if anyone could help me compile a list of supplies that would be beneficial to have. Also, is the trail suited to a cyclocross bike, or would it just be better to bring the MTB? Thanks so much!

Either bike will work. Pick the one that is most comfortable for a long ride.

Bring a listing of places to stop for food, lodging, etc by using the Plan a Ride option at the top of the web page and printing it out.

Bring extras of basics since businesses aren't always open and towns can be over 10 miles apart.

Extra water. Don't expect a 20oz bottle to carry you through the day.

Extra food. Some kind of snacks like granola bars. Maybe something like GatorAde. Enough to get by in case of a close store or restaurant.

First aid - antibiotic creams, bandages, etc.

Sunblock.

Bug repellant. for the evenings when you are camping.

Clothes and camping supplies appropriate for the weather. It could be both warm and very cold in March.

Extra tire - not just an extra tube, but also an extra tire. The one time I didn't bring an extra tire on a multi-day trip is the only time I've ever had a blow-out. Also take extra tubes, patch kit, and whatever tools you usually carry.

Hand-wipes. To clean your face and hands of food, dust, bike grease, etc.

toilet paper - a small roll in case the trail-side toilets are out.

Also, if camping, bring soap/shampoo, towel. I use a mild soap that works as a shampoo, too. I also use it to wash clothes, since I only bring about 3 days of clothing with me.

Bring the right tools that will allow you to tighten every bolt on your bike. The trail is a little bumpy and you might find your water bottle cage or rear rack falling off.

If you are not used to doing multi-day rides, you should consider bringing something to soothe your "backside" in case of chafing. Some people use it before the start of the ride to help prevent chafing.

In March the trailheads will not be open.....don't expect running water there as you will be about a month early. I'd bring some warm clothes too!

A couple of other things in addition to the excellent suggestions above: A tire pump, the kind that attaches to the side of your water bottle bracket. You may work your arm off inflating a tire, but it's better than nothing when your 7 miles from nowhere. I carry a few extra chain links and a chain tool. Also, purely optional, a GPS can be kinda nice but obviously not necessary.