Would love to hear about your experiences (or links, etc) about the eastern portion of the Great American Rail Trail., including the GAP and C&O. Especially are the "existing" portions actually traversable and findable? When is the most pleasant time to ride it? What daily mileage are you able to make compared to your typical road mileage? Are 40mm tires sufficient or is the surface such that we would need to go wider? Are fenders a plus or minus?
After taking 25+ years off bicycle touring, I'm excited about getting back into it now that I'm retired. Lifelong California resident who used to tour a lot in my 20's and early 30's. I just completed my second RAGBRAI (20,000+ person mass ride 400 miles across Iowa) and realized that I can enjoy riding even when it's hot and humid. If we're doing a road tour, I think we would target around 50-60 miles per day (vs 80+ when we were younger)
What I don't relish any more is a constant stream of cars blowing by me at 80+ mph, so the concept of a long separated path is appealing. According to the Great American Rail Trail's 2026 assessment, 600 of the 850 route miles east of Chicago is complete.
My wife and I would try to lodge indoors as much as possible but we would probably bring very minimal camping gear just in case (about 10 pounds total for our tent and sleep system). We're planning on new bikes.
by jimonlimon
1 Comment
The GAP and C&O meet in Cumberland, MD and you won’t miss a beat. Never been to Pittsburgh and my GAP experience is limited to Cumberland area, but very findable and traversable and a popular route. 40mm tires will be ideal.
I love riding the C&O in the fall. But no matter the time of year, if it rains you will be riding in the mud. So fenders will be helpful. Every 20 miles or so (estimated, not exact) there are towns along the path with lodging/food etc. I’ve done 60 miles in a day on it no problem. I know the GAP has more elevation changes but nothing serious.
I’m envious of your trip! Spend a day exploring Harpers Ferry. Eat a crab cake anywhere in Maryland. Reach out if you have more questions and please post updates! This is a dream ride.