Great Allegheny Gap trail

Question

Looking for a suggested itinerary for biking along the Great Allegheny Gap, where to start and stay, for bike rides for a day or two. Any info will be appreciated!

Answer

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a fantastic bike trail that spans 150 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland. It passes through scenic landscapes, including forests, towns, and historical sites. If you’re planning a one or two-day biking trip along the GAP, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your experience:

Day 1: Cumberland to Frostburg (approximately 8 miles)

This portion of the GAP is a great way to ease into the trail, offering a relatively short and scenic ride. Cumberland, Maryland, is a great starting point and has several bike-friendly accommodations. From Cumberland, the trail climbs gently as you head west toward Frostburg. Here’s a suggested plan:

Start in Cumberland: Explore the historic town of Cumberland before setting out. Cumberland has many attractions, including the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and the C&O Canal Towpath Museum.
Bike to Frostburg: The ride to Frostburg is around 8 miles and features beautiful views of the countryside. The trail gradually ascends, and you’ll pass through tunnels, including the famous Helmstetter’s Curve and the 1,500-foot-long Big Savage Tunnel.
Stay in Frostburg: Frostburg offers a few cozy bed and breakfasts and inns where you can relax after your ride. The Hotel Gunter is a popular option, offering historic charm and proximity to the trail.

Day 2: Frostburg to Meyersdale or beyond (approximately 15-20 miles)

On your second day, continue your adventure along the GAP as you bike towards Meyersdale, which is about 15 miles from Frostburg. This segment of the trail is one of the most scenic, taking you through mountain passes, deep forests, and over bridges. If you're up for a longer ride, you can aim to get even farther to Rockwood, which is about 20 miles from Frostburg.

Bike from Frostburg to Meyersdale: This is one of the more scenic sections of the GAP, where you’ll encounter steep climbs and descents. The trail is well-maintained, and you’ll have plenty of picturesque views as you ride through wooded areas and cross over the Allegheny Plateau.
Stay in Meyersdale: Meyersdale is a small town with a few options for accommodation. The Meyersdale Hotel is a popular choice, offering an easy access point to the trail and a comfortable stop for the night.

Alternate Option: Pittsburgh to Cumberland (for a multi-day ride)

If you’re planning to ride the full trail and want a more extended multi-day adventure, here’s a suggestion for a longer trip:

Start in Pittsburgh: For a longer trip, you can begin in Pittsburgh. This will give you a chance to see some of the urban attractions before hitting the more scenic countryside sections. From Pittsburgh, you can follow the GAP all the way to Cumberland. The trail offers a mix of urban, rural, and mountainous terrain.
Stay in Various Towns: Along the way, there are plenty of towns to stay in, including Connellsville, Ohiopyle, and Rockwood. Each of these towns has bike-friendly accommodations and restaurants to fuel your adventure.

Things to Know Before You Go:

Bike Rentals: If you don't have your own bike, you can rent one from the local bike shops in Cumberland or Pittsburgh. Many of these shops offer bike shuttle services if you need a ride back to your starting point.
Trail Conditions: The GAP is a well-maintained trail, but some sections may be more challenging due to elevation changes or gravel surfaces. Make sure you're prepared for mountain biking and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Trail Towns: The GAP passes through several trail towns, where you can stop for food, drinks, and rest. Some towns offer shuttle services to and from the trail if you prefer not to ride the whole way.

Whether you choose a short trip or a longer ride, the Great Allegheny Passage offers one of the best biking experiences in the eastern United States. Enjoy your ride!

Great Allegheny Gap trail

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