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Fall in Ohiopyle
Fall in Ohiopyle, PA on the GAP
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Current Paw Paw Tunnel Access
 -  + If anybody has ridden through recently, can you describe whether you were able to pass on the trail downstream of the tunnel, or did you have to use the bypass trail? We will be leaving for our ride ...
Discussion started 06/21/2021 08:22 PM by Andy - 4 replies (last reply by Andy at 06/29/2021 06:52 AM)
Andy from Pittsburgh on 06/21/2021 08:22 PM
If anybody has ridden through recently, can you describe whether you were able to pass on the trail downstream of the tunnel, or did you have to use the bypass trail? We will be leaving for our ride to DC in a few days, and would like to determine if we definitely should just take the trail or try the tunnel hoping to pass through at the other end.

Thanks!

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 06/22/2021 03:04 AM
Andy, I went right through last week. You wouldn’t even know anyone is working there except for a few signs. No equipment or anything…I was expecting a work site. It was a bit muddy right as I exited the tunnel but other than that nothing else. Ignore the detour and go right through.

John

 
IndyRider from Indianapolis on 06/22/2021 06:52 AM
We rode through the tunnel on June 13, no problems. HOWEVER: we stayed with a very knowledgeable Paw Paw resident the night before, and he said that all indications are that actual closure is imminent. He said that the trailers for the construction workers to live in are receiving final preparations.

 
Andy from Pittsburgh on 06/22/2021 08:57 AM
Thanks for your responses. Hopefully it is still open on Monday!

 
Andy from Pittsburgh on 06/29/2021 06:52 AM
I rode through the tunnel yesterday, June 28. No signs of construction anywhere near the tunnel and someone tossed a sawhorse into the canal downstream from the tunnel. There do seem to be some bigger puddles in the towpath in the tunnel than in prior years, particularly towards the downstream end.


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Current Paw Paw Tunnel Access
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Pit Stop Kremery in Meyersdale
 -  + what are your hours today .sunday 6 27 2021
Discussion started 06/27/2021 04:49 PM by wanda gerhard - 0 replies
wanda gerhard from berlin on 06/27/2021 04:49 PM
what are your hours today .sunday 6 27 2021


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Clarion Hotel Shepherdstown in Shepherdstown
 -  + Was in the process (today June 26, 2021) of making reservations at the Clarion Hotel & Convention Ctr for the end of Aug 2021. The hotel is not taking reservations as it is being remodeled and not tak...
Discussion started 06/26/2021 04:32 PM by Dandz - 0 replies
Dandz from The Villages Florida on 06/26/2021 04:32 PM
Was in the process (today June 26, 2021) of making reservations at the Clarion Hotel & Convention Ctr for the end of Aug 2021. The hotel is not taking reservations as it is being remodeled and not taking reservations thru the remainder of the year.


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Lily Garden Bed And Breakfast in Harpers Ferry
 -  + Just called to make reservations - they now have a 2 night minimum
Discussion started 06/26/2021 03:36 PM by Trot - 0 replies
Trot on 06/26/2021 03:36 PM
Just called to make reservations - they now have a 2 night minimum


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Florida bike trip plan question for the folks from Florida
 -  + Hello, I see there are some folks from Florida here on the forum and just wondering what you think is the best time to plan a Florida bike trip to friends and relatives? Here's the plan so far: Take t...
Discussion started 06/24/2021 10:24 AM by BobK - 1 reply (last reply by Sarge P at 06/25/2021 09:22 PM)
BobK from McLean Va on 06/24/2021 10:24 AM
Hello, I see there are some folks from Florida here on the forum and just wondering what you think is the best time to plan a Florida bike trip to friends and relatives? Here's the plan so far:
Take the Amtrak in DC to the Tampa station and ride to Wesley Chapel to visit friends. Then take 54 to Odessa and take the Suncoast trail to Brooksville and get on the Withlacoochee State trail to Inverness and then take 44 to the Villages to visit relatives. Still planning on how to get from the Villages to the Orlando Amtrak station, but looks like 441 might be bike friendly and fairly scenic!
So just wondering what you think might be the best time to start this trip and or if you have any other suggestions or recommendations for a fun bike trip in Florida? And have fun on your bike ride up here!

 
Sarge P from Sarasota on 06/25/2021 09:22 PM
BobK,
If riding in heat doesn't bother you, then anytime is great for Florida biking. But if you're like a lot of us, it is HOT here for at least 6 months of the year. Putting in lots of miles, you will need lots of water, sunscreen, and favorable riding apparel. The most enjoyable times for riding and visiting with a smile on your face would be the fall and winter months.


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Fort Duquesne in Pittsburgh, ground zero for the American Revolution
 -  + Hello, in planning my Pittsburgh to DC trip and brushing up on the history of the the area, was reminded how Fort Duquesne in Pittsburgh was ground zero for the American Revolution and ground zero bec...
Discussion started 06/21/2021 10:03 AM by BobK - 2 replies (last reply by BobK at 06/24/2021 10:11 AM)
BobK from McLean Va on 06/21/2021 10:03 AM
Hello, in planning my Pittsburgh to DC trip and brushing up on the history of the the area, was reminded how Fort Duquesne in Pittsburgh was ground zero for the American Revolution and ground zero because events in this area triggered the French Indian war which then triggered the European Seven Years war which then led to a need to increase taxes on the colonies to help pay for the war and the increased taxes eventually led to the American Revolution. And what's ironic is George Washington helped the British defeat the French in the French Indian war, but the French helped George Washington beat the British at Yorktown! And looks like on June 28th, Connellesville will be celebrating Braddock’s crossing which sounds like a fun and interesting event!

https://connellsvillehistoricalsociety.com/

https://www.connellsvillehistoricalsociety.com/braddock_s_crossing

http://www.histbuffer.com/2014/07/the-braddock-road-crossing-reenactment.html

Fort Duquesne:
http://www.flcinnovation.org/thepointisthepoint/?page_id=54

Braddock road:
https://www.legendsofamerica.com/braddocks-road/
https://www.post-gazette.com/life/travel/2005/07/03/Historians-walk-Braddock-s-Road-250-years-later/stories/200507030225


 
Anonymous on 06/21/2021 01:08 PM
Thanks for the info about Braddock's crossing. Please note though that the celebration is on June 26th. Which is good news for us, since we are passing through Connellsville on the 26th on our way to DC. May make our lunch stop in the park a bit crowded this year, but this should be interesting.

 
BobK from McLean Va on 06/24/2021 10:11 AM
Yes June 26th, thanks for the update and please let us know how the Connellsville event goes if you are able to attend!


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Conditions & Closures
 -  + I'm planning on cycling the trail from cumberland to DC next weekend (7/2-7/4). I know the pawpaw tunnel may or may not be open from the sounds of it. Sounds like it is also muddy and may be worse wit...
Discussion started 06/23/2021 10:36 PM by Kevin - 0 replies
Kevin from MILWAUKEE on 06/23/2021 10:36 PM
I'm planning on cycling the trail from cumberland to DC next weekend (7/2-7/4). I know the pawpaw tunnel may or may not be open from the sounds of it. Sounds like it is also muddy and may be worse with the forecasted rains. Any news on trail conditions? I have 48mm slicks and fenders but can swap for knobbies if need be.

The NPS lists closures/detours at Culvert 82 due to high water and recommends calling a shuttle. Is this still the case?

Any tips/tricks are appreciated.


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Trip Report: Meyersdale (6/11/21) to DC (6/18/21)
 -  + I read a few of these trip reports in preparation for our ride and found them helpful, so here is mine. We rode as a group of ten leisurely riders with a tourist bent. Which is to say we rode rather ...
Discussion started 06/23/2021 05:03 PM by Indy Rider - 0 replies
Indy Rider from Indianapolis on 06/23/2021 05:03 PM
I read a few of these trip reports in preparation for our ride and found them helpful, so here is mine.

We rode as a group of ten leisurely riders with a tourist bent. Which is to say we rode rather slowly, stopped to read a lot of the markers, and had side trips to several attractions. We stayed in Air BnB's and hotels. If you are looking to complete the trail in record time and camp along the way, this report may not relate well to what you are intending to do.

Day one: Meyersdale to Cumberland
Meyersdale was a good place to start for our purposes, because you can park your car at the old train station and leave it there for a week or more. Your contact information is registered and forwarded to the local police. We had a light misting rain most of the day, so the climb to the continental divide was not so much fun, but the trail is wide and compact. Once we crested the continental divide though...wow! A very fun downhill ride for miles and miles, all the way to Cumberland. Easiest day of riding of the whole trip, despite the rain. We ate at the Crabby Pig in Cumberland, which was great. Their crab cakes were a revelation to a midwesterner like me. We stayed at the Fairfield Inn, which is directly on the trail. The Fairfield also provides a bike cleaning station, which was very helpful.

Day two: Cumberland to Paw Paw
Today began the C&O portion of the trip, and as any other trip report will attest, there is a huge difference in the riding surface of the two trails. Knowing we were likely going to have rain, I had switched out my slickish tires for cyclocross tires before we left home, and was soon very glad I did. The puddles were frequent and unavoidable. Anyone reading this with an eye towards planning a first time C&O trip: simply resign yourself to the fact that you will get muddy if there has been any rain. We stopped to eat lunch at the Schoolhouse Diner in Oldtown. It was ok, not far off the path, but also nothing to rave about. Onwards we rode to Paw Paw. We had reservations to stay at the Bike Path BnB in Paw Paw, and I highly recommend this place due mainly to the proprietor. Dan rode out to meet us a few files outside of Paw Paw, and was a true wealth of information. he pointed out natural wonders we would have ridden right past had he not been with us (a blooming American Chestnut, for instance. A miraculous survivor of the blight). We ate dinner at Amanda's Place, which was fantastic. There is not much to do in Paw Paw after dark. Or in the daytime for that matter. Dan was a great host though, a wonderful raconteur, and served a hearty breakfast the next morning.

Day three: Paw Paw to Hancock
What Paw Paw does have to offer is the very cool Paw Paw tunnel. We were fortunate to ride the trail while the tunnel was still open. By the time I finish this post, it will likely be closed for improvements. Maybe they will improve the surface of the trail inside the tunnel, but for us it will be too late. One of our party did not properly secure her iphone before entering the tunnel...and the trail inside the tunnel is extremely bumpy. You can see where this is going. Plop! Into the canal it went. (I will briefly skip ahead to tell you that there is an AT&T store in Williamsport.) The trail section beyond the Paw Paw Tunnel is likely the most remote and unkept part of the C&O. Lots of mud, several downed trees across the path, but also lots of wildlife and birds. Beautiful. Eventually, you reach a spot where there is a sign on the rock wall with a picture of a fork & knife. You have arrived at Bill's Place. We stopped for some food and a beer or two. We then opted to hop on the Western Maryland Trail for some paved relief from all the mud. Consequently, we then made pretty good time into Hancock. Of little relevance to any other riders for the next seventeen years, I can report that Hancock had the most intense Brood X Cicada invasion of any spot we encountered. The air was thick with them. We spent the night at the Super 8. If you can find other options, you might want to consider them. I was less than impressed. It's the only hotel room I have ever been locked INTO. (thank goodness for multi-tools! An essential part of any bike touring kit)

Day four: Hancock to Willamsport
The Western Maryland Trail continues for another ten straight miles or so out of Hancock, which made for a fast, fun ride. Once back on the dirt ruts, we found things had dried out substantially. We made a side trip to check out Fort Frederick State Park, a very cool recreation of a stone fort from the 1750's. It's a bit of a climb to get there, but worth it if you are into history. There are also actual flush toilets in the outer buildings, just so you know. The weather had finally turned in our favor, so it was a lovely wooded ride all the way to Willamsport. We had rooms at the Red Roof Inn, which was nice but was quite a bit off of the trail. Long hills to climb at the end of the day, followed by a ride to the local shopping mall to visit the AT&t store (iphone withdrawals averted) left us exhausted and ready to sleep.

Day Five: Williamsport to Harper's Ferry
to me, this was the most beautiful day of riding. I loved the portion where the canal path is carved out of rocks right on the edge of the Potomac for a few miles. Outside Shepardstown, the recent trail improvements take effect. Packed cinder, glorious to ride on. Once you arrive at Harper's Ferry, be prepared to climb a staircase to cross the Potomac into town. Whose idea was this, building a spiral staircase to access a bike path? Well, there are plenty of hikers. Some of them were less than amused with ten bicycle people huffing and puffing and clogging up the staircase. Oh well. Harper's Ferry is a cool town, actually a National Park in the lower portions. Our Air BnB was in the upper portion of town, and the hill to get there...good lord! I guess we got spoiled after five days of downhill. There are wonderful Air BnB's to be had in Harper's Ferry. Our group had secured two of them. We scheduled two days in HF, to give ourselves a day of rest & relaxation. So Day Six is Also Harper's Ferry, and not much riding. Just exploring the town, and having an uproarously good time at an Irish Jam session at The Barn. Recommended!

Day Seven: Harper's Ferry to Leesburg
Ok, this is admittedly a wimpishly short day of riding, but don't blame me, blame White's Ferry! Closure of White's Ferry coupled with an absolute dearth of ANY lodging on the Maryland side of the river, caused us to have to have to get across the Point of Rocks bridge to get to our hotel in Leesburg. So, basically about 12 miles of riding. Our hotel provided a shuttle from Point of Rocks to Leesburg and I am so glad they did! Shame on you Virginia! Put in some bike lanes! We did see a group of cyclists head towards the bridge as we waited for our shuttle...I hope they survived. Car & truck traffic was heavy on Route 15, a two lane highway with shoulders about 6 inches wide, and with rumble strips. No bueno for bikes. Leesburg itself, though, was excellent. Fun town. If you enjoy German beers, you must got to Black Hoof brewery.

Day Eight: Leesburg to Washington DC.
The shuttle got us back to Point of Rocks right at 9am for our longest and last ride of the trip, 50 miles. Oddly, as you are approaching a major metropolis, it is also seems like the longest stretch without any towns to stop into. White's Ferry (the boat) may be closed, but the little cafe at White's Ferry was very much open and provided tasty sandwiches and snacks that were much appreciated on down the line. At some point after White's Ferry the heavenly compacted cinder trail surface gives way back to the dirt road variety, and as you get closer to DC it becomes a curious, pebbly orange/tan surface that I did not care for very much. One member of our group had been excitedly anticipating Great Falls very much, to which I thought: meh. Waterfall, whatever


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Bay Farms B&B in Williamsport
 -  + Jessie and Bay Farms B&B are AMAZING!!! My 16 year old son and 77 year old father ended up in a pickle near Williamsport! Not only was Jessie able to go grab them off the trail for me, but she was ab...
Discussion started 06/07/2021 06:28 PM by Erin - 2 replies (last reply by Karen at 06/18/2021 08:27 PM)
Erin from Washington, PA on 06/07/2021 06:28 PM
Jessie and Bay Farms B&B are AMAZING!!! My 16 year old son and 77 year old father ended up in a pickle near Williamsport! Not only was Jessie able to go grab them off the trail for me, but she was able to give me a check in and text me back as to how they were doing!!! After a long day in the sun with some bike issues - all was well and both were fine - nothing a little rest, food, water and a good nights sleep couldn’t cure! She was SO helpful, I cannot say enough good things. Such a relief - especially to a worried mother/daughter feeling helpless back in PA near Pittsburgh!!! The report back to me about the stay at the B&B was that it was just as amazing as the owners! If Williamsport is one of your stops for the night…stay here - they are WONDERFUL!!!!

 
Sallie from Lockport NY on 06/09/2021 03:30 PM
We stayed at Bay Farms in June 2020 and also had a great experience. Would highly recommend.

 
Karen from Buffalo, NY on 06/18/2021 08:27 PM
Lovely B&B. Jessie is a welcoming and thoughtful host. Rooms are quiet and comfortable. Breakfast was delicious. Nice touches - laundry available, bike washing, and shoe dryer are included. Really enjoyed meeting other bikers in the comfortable common areas. Highly recommend!


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 -  + Does anyone know if you can park at the Williamsport lot overnight? Do you have to register to do so? Thanks
Discussion started 06/14/2021 11:48 AM by Rick - 2 replies (last reply by Rick at 06/14/2021 11:33 PM)
Rick from Greenock, PA on 06/14/2021 11:48 AM
Does anyone know if you can park at the Williamsport lot overnight? Do you have to register to do so?

Thanks

 
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 06/14/2021 09:16 PM
Rick:

I don’t know the answer to your question but I expect you can get a quick answer from the Williamsport C&O Canal Visitor Center located along the Canal. There is a large parking lot there that is not normally very crowded. The Visitor Center can be reached at:

(301) 582-0813

The Center is reported to be closed on Mondays and Tuesday’s so you may need to wait a day to reach them.



 
Rick from Greenock, PA on 06/14/2021 11:33 PM
Thanks. Will call before we go.


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Overnight to Harpers Ferry
 -  + My wife and I are taking an overnight trip to Harpers Ferry this week. We plan to park our car in Downsville,MD and taking our bikes about 35 miles. We are staying at the Ledgehouse B&B, and coming ...
Discussion started 06/13/2021 06:45 PM by Rick - 1 reply (last reply by Rivnuts at 06/14/2021 05:55 AM)
Rick from Greenock,PA on 06/13/2021 06:45 PM
My wife and I are taking an overnight trip to Harpers Ferry this week. We plan to park our car in Downsville,MD and taking our bikes about 35 miles. We are staying at the Ledgehouse B&B, and coming back the next day. Breakfast is covered, but I’d like some advice on lunch in Shepherdstown, and dinner in Harpers Ferry. Also, any “don’t miss” sights.

Also for some reason Google Maps keep taking me off the C&O near Mercersville. Is there any reason for that?

Thanks for the help

Rick

 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 06/14/2021 05:55 AM
My favorite eatery midday in Sbepherdstown is the Shepherdstown Sweet Shop on West German (the main) Street. While their pastries are their calling card, and deservedly so, you can get sandwiches and coffee their as well. If you are looking for more substance for your lunch, another eatery may be more to your liking.


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Family Trip
 -  + During planning for our family ride Pitt to DC, I didnt find a lot of info about younger riders completing the trip. We just did it and our 11 year old had a blast. If there are other families looki...
Discussion started 06/07/2021 11:27 AM by T - 1 reply (last reply by Sallie at 06/09/2021 03:53 PM)
T from Louisiana on 06/07/2021 11:27 AM
During planning for our family ride Pitt to DC, I didnt find a lot of info about younger riders completing the trip. We just did it and our 11 year old had a blast. If there are other families looking into this and want to see a video of our week long adventure, see youtube link below.

https://youtu.be/fO-vNDGAdMc

 
Sallie from Lockport NY on 06/09/2021 03:53 PM
Thank you for sharing your wonderful video!
Brought back a lot of memories.


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Pittsburgh long term Parking
 -  + Hi GAP and C and O bikers. We are biking both trails in June. We need to secure long term parking in Pittsburgh for the time on the trail. We have a reservation at the Hampton Inn, Homestead (pitts...
Discussion started 04/01/2021 08:11 PM - 11 replies (last reply by Kathye at 06/09/2021 12:33 PM)
Anonymous on 04/01/2021 08:11 PM
Hi GAP and C and O bikers. We are biking both trails in June. We need to secure long term parking in Pittsburgh for the time on the trail. We have a reservation at the Hampton Inn, Homestead (pittsburgh) for prior to our biking departure and they allow GAP/ C and O bikers to park for free while they are on the trail. However, I have read at least one review on Trip Advisor for this hotel which stated that their car was broken into while they were parked there. Wondering if the downtown long term parking options (Grant Street Transportation Center) would be a safer bet? It is not unreasonably expensive as weekend rates are 5 $ / 24 hours. Weekdays are 13 $ per 24 hours. Airport parking is likely pretty secure as people are in and out all of the time, but the airport parking would add inconvenience to our trip (out of the city, need to arrange transporation back to the city, what do we do with the bikes, etc.). Anyone have advise about long term parking in Pittsburgh? Safety is our priority (don't want our car broken into). Thank you!!! Can't wait to ride the trials!!! ;)

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 04/01/2021 08:43 PM
Ive had ride partners stay there from out of town and leave their cars there for a week, no issues. I’ve heard of many other people staying there and beginning their tours at this hotel, telling the staff at the Hampton Inn they will be leaving their car behind for a GAP trip and they are very accommodating. Don’t be put off my a random comment on TripAdvisor. These things (random breakins) could happen at any location a person parks. Grocery shopping, a day at work, staying at a hotel, etc. I have not heard that this is any kind of a persistent issue at this hotel. In fact that’s the first time I’ve heard of a break in there. Like anywhere, don’t leave anything of value visible in your locked car. Put your bike rack in your trunk or in your back seat and cover with a blanket. I think parking there is free, so that’s always a good thing.

I would avoid the airport, like you’d said, you’d need to arrange transportation. You could park at the parking lots downtown around PNC Park but those are downtown daily rates. Their prices will be similar to the Grant Street prices you mentioned.

Have a great trip!
John

 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 04/01/2021 09:35 PM
I live in Homestead and worked downtown for 20 years and currently ride through town two or three times per week. The downtown parking lots are not generally policed and pedestrian traffic therein that might dissuade potential thieves is significantly less now during the pandemic due to many fewer people parking downtown. Thus I don't consider the risk of break-ins to be any less there than at the Hampton Inn in Homestead and certainly not at the expense of week long parking fees.

As with parking at any public location, your risk of break-in would be reduced by parking as near to and within site of the main entrance to the hotel, if possible. Further, as John W notes, remove any valuable items from sight within the car. Removing your bike rack which intimates you may be remote from the hotel might be another risk avoidance idea.

While I hadn't considered this before and it is admittedly a little off the wall, you might look into parking your car at the Homestead Police Station. It is only a short ride from the Hampton Inn and just a couple of blocks off the GAP Trail. You might check with the Homestead Police and see if they would allow you to park there. Its not that busy or congested there.


 
Anonymous on 04/03/2021 09:55 AM
Thank you all for your help and comments! If there are others who have advise, please continue to comment!! thanks much again!

 
Anonymous on 04/12/2021 08:36 PM
I live about 4 miles from the trail at Homestead and helped someone out years ago with parking before the trail actually made its way all the way to downtown Pittsburgh. The streets around here are safe (I've never seen a break-in, although anything is possible) for street parking, and there are some streets that do not have street cleaning.

If you park at the airport, there is a trail that goes all the way out there and connects to the GAP in McKeesport, although there are some road sections on that trail as well as 4-5 miles between the two trails. https://montourtrail.org/

 
Anonymous on 04/18/2021 04:51 PM
thank you!!!
We are still investigating down town stay and paid parking in one of the overnight ramps (grant street for example). this way we can start the trail at the park instead of having to skip the first several miles (by starting in Homestead) or doubling back (if we are very intent on "doing the whole thing"). Anyone have info on the safety of the overnight ramps downtown? --the pittburgh parking authority advertises two overnight/ long term ramps. one is Grant street and the other escapes me now. Thank you!!!!

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 04/18/2021 07:34 PM
Here’s one thing to consider that might make you think about staying in Homestead. If your intent is “doing the whole trail” (most of us do), one way you could approach this is to check into your hotel in Homestead the afternoon/evening you arrive, drop off all your gear, and ride light and leisurely to Point State Park in downtown Pittsburgh. Find the medallion which is the terminus of the trail, then ride back to your hotel. You could now consider this the beginning of your ride.

Yes technically you’re doubling back but you’ve done it with no gear and also knowing you don’t have to do big miles on this day. I think it’s 9 miles out and 9 miles back. Then in the morning, just start from your hotel and get on the GAP where you left off and begin your journey to DC. You've knocked out the first nine or so miles, all on paved asphalt, and still covered every inch of the GAP so far.

Also leaving your car at your hotel in Homestead is free and that’s a plus. It just depends what you think is better/easier for you. Just something to consider!

I’m sorry that I have nothing to add about the downtown ramps as I’ve never used them for overnights.

 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 04/18/2021 09:21 PM
I'm not aware of a Pittsburgh Parking Authority garage (ramp?) on Grant Street per se'. However there is one whose entry is on Penn Avenue at/above the Greyhound bus station about a block off Grant Street and maybe only two blocks from the Amtrak train station. (Not sure how you are getting back to Pittsburgh from DC.) Of all the downtown garages, that one may be the most active/used since foot traffic in the garages around the downtown offices is much less with the pandemic. Hence, it may well be the safest of all the downtown garages.

Another thought is perhaps to look at hotels across the Monongahela River from downtown in the so-called Southside area of Pittsburgh. There's a Sheraton and a Holiday Inn Express there with outdoor gated parking areas. I don't know what their parking rates are however. Like the hotels in Homestead, they may let you park there for much less if you stay there for a night as both are not very busy now. In each case you are just a short bike ride across either the Fort Pitt Bridge or the Smithfield Street Bridge to get over to Point State Park and the beginning of the GAP Trail at the convergence of the three rivers.

Here's another option depending on your interest and schedule. If you'd like to stay and park at one of the Homestead hotels, I'd be more than happy to take you, your bikes (maximum of two with my bike rack) and your gear from Homestead where I live to Point State Park downtown to begin your trip. The catch is that I'll be riding across Georgia one week and on an Ohio trip another in June. So it would depend on when you arrive in Pittsburgh. If its while I'm home, I'd be more than happy to make that happen.

 
Kurt from St Paul, MN on 05/10/2021 11:21 PM
I know I'm a month late answering but just in case you see this I thought I'd give my perspective.

I parked at the Homestead Holiday Inn Express last year with no problems. I parked my truck conspicuously in the front lot and backed so the front was facing the main door. I also checked twice to make sure absolutely nothing was visible in the cab. Thieves look for change, electronics, and will sometimes take a chance on clutter.

I think you'll be fine if you use some street smarts! I'll be doing the ride again this June. Best of luck to you!

 
Anonymous on 05/11/2021 07:53 AM
thank you!

 
Anonymous on 05/11/2021 10:27 PM
hi and Thank you Rivnuts! Really kind of you to offer a ride and thank you for all of your advise! We have figured out our dilemma and a solution that we are happy with. Now we just look forward to the ride! Enjoy yours!

 
Kathye on 06/09/2021 12:33 PM
Just a follow-up, Courtyard Pittsburgh West Homestead/Waterfront said you can park your car there for as long as you need (I mentioned 1-2 weeks) and said "no problem" when asked. As of today their rates are somewhat less than Hampstead Inn but still near the GAP. I just made a reservation and plan to ride to DC and back. Does anyone have experience with them?


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Layton Bridge in Perryopolis
 -  + If your a fan of the FX series Justified you'll recognize the Layton Bridge from the 1st season/1st episode "Fire In he Hole" If you travel across the river and take a right you'll come to the Buffalo...
Discussion started 06/01/2021 07:34 PM by Rick Hancock - 1 reply (last reply by Bill in Houston at 06/04/2021 12:44 PM)
Rick Hancock from Grafton, Va on 06/01/2021 07:34 PM
If your a fan of the FX series Justified you'll recognize the Layton Bridge from the 1st season/1st episode "Fire In he Hole" If you travel across the river and take a right you'll come to the Buffalo Bill House from "Silence Of The Lambs". #8 Circle St.

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 06/04/2021 12:44 PM
When we stopped through back in October, the inn keeper told us about that. She also said that Jason Momoa had bought a house in town. Fun stuff for a tiny town.


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Bill's Place in Little Orleans is OPEN (irregular hours)
 -  + Heads up fellow bicyclist and outdoor adventurist, the infamous Bill's Place in the heart of bustling downtown Little Orleans, MD (MP 141) are OPEN FOR BUSINESS! They are CLOSED every Tuesday and Wed...
Discussion started 05/28/2021 04:03 PM by John Walker - 0 replies
John Walker from Little Orleans on 05/28/2021 04:03 PM
Heads up fellow bicyclist and outdoor adventurist, the infamous Bill's Place in the heart of bustling downtown Little Orleans, MD (MP 141) are OPEN FOR BUSINESS! They are CLOSED every Tuesday and Wednesday, and they don't serve Breakfast. The grill normally closes early, around seven or eightish depending upon the crowd. The best days to catch them open is during the weekend, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. Remember, this is a Cash-Only-Establishment so plan accordingly. There is an ATM on the premises but you will have to pay a fee! On a somewhat related topic, Bill Place is FOR SALE and has been since 2019. Jack Schoenadel and his wife want to retire.


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Little Orleans Lodge in Little Orleans
 -  + Hello John Walker, Thank you for your very nice commentary in the Cumberland Times-News today. A few friends sent it to me. I was married to Steve (and still am alive!!). Your comments were so nic...
Discussion started 04/29/2021 06:17 PM by Mary Huebner - 1 reply (last reply by John Walker at 05/28/2021 03:36 PM)
Mary Huebner on 04/29/2021 06:17 PM
Hello John Walker,

Thank you for your very nice commentary in the Cumberland Times-News today. A few friends sent it to me. I was married to Steve (and still am alive!!). Your comments were so nice, and greatly appreciated.

Mary Huebner

 
John Walker from Little Orleans on 05/28/2021 03:36 PM
Good to hear from you, Mary. I'm so sorry that things turned out the way they did between Steve and me. He was a very nice man before the Alzheimers stole him from all of us. I glad that he's now at peace and is no longer suffering from this terrible infirmity.


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Meyersdale Parking
 -  + Apologies if this has been addressed before...I tried using the search function, but it never provided any results. We are a group who will be arriving in three cars to ride Meyersdale>DC. We are lei...
Discussion started 05/19/2021 12:01 PM by Indy Rider - 3 replies (last reply by Kurut at 05/25/2021 10:48 PM)
Indy Rider from Indianapolis on 05/19/2021 12:01 PM
Apologies if this has been addressed before...I tried using the search function, but it never provided any results.
We are a group who will be arriving in three cars to ride Meyersdale>DC. We are leisurely riders, so are planning on being gone 10 days. Is there anyone who frequents this forum who might have insight into where we might arrange to park our cars in Meyersdale for that length of time? Any safety precautions? Obviously, a car break-in can happen just about anywhere any time, but we are hoping to find a place that is relatively safe and where we will not be towed. Thanks in advance for any info.

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 05/19/2021 01:27 PM
You can park at the Meyersdale Area Historical Society, it’s a stones throw from the trail. Also, on the official GAP map, it’s marked with a “P” for Parking at this location so it’s a place you can park for trail access. Since you’ll be leaving your car for more than a day, you could/should contact them and ask about weeklong parking just to make sure they won’t tow. I don’t believe they would tow but better to ask and alert them. Their number is 814-634-8654. They have a web page also and it says “free parking”.

Have a great trip.

John

 
Indy Rider from Indianapolis on 05/20/2021 10:03 AM
Thank you for your response, the Meyersdale Area Historical Society turned out to be the perfect solution! They said we could provide our license numbers and contact info, which would be faxed to the local police. The parking lot is patrolled, apparently.


 
Kurut on 05/25/2021 10:48 PM
Thank you for the answer John W and for asking the question Indy! I just had to rearrange my entire trip due to a family issue and this was super helpful now that I'm starting in Meyersdale instead of Pittsburgh.


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Pennsylvania Maple Festival Park (Camping) - Meyersdale, PA
 -  + On the Pennsylvania Maple Festival Park web site I just saw that some dates are already sold out for the campground and others have limited availablity. Sold Out: June 10 July 19 August 30 Limited A...
Discussion started 05/21/2021 01:06 PM by John W. - 1 reply (last reply by Rivnuts at 05/21/2021 09:18 PM)
John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 05/21/2021 01:06 PM
On the Pennsylvania Maple Festival Park web site I just saw that some dates are already sold out for the campground and others have limited availablity.

Sold Out:
June 10
July 19
August 30

Limited Availablity:
June 13
August 8
October 3

Some of the larger crowds could be related to events hosted at the festival grounds, not just bicycle tourists.

You could roll the dice and do same day or walk-in reservations but with what appears to be a busy summer season ahead, I would call and make reservations to guarantee you get a site if you choose to stay here.

John

 
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/21/2021 09:18 PM
...or consider overnighting in Rockwood at the Husky Haven campsite or the Hostel on Main Street.


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Adele's Bed & Breakfast in Smithton
 -  + This is a great place to stay. Have to go up a short very steep hill to get to the road, but it was worth it.
Discussion started 05/21/2021 08:40 AM by Frances - 0 replies
Frances from Royal Oak on 05/21/2021 08:40 AM
This is a great place to stay. Have to go up a short very steep hill to get to the road, but it was worth it.


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Riding DC to Pittsburgh late June from CT Looking for Bike Buddy-camping
 -  + Taking Amtrack to DC Rent car from Pittsburgh back to CT. A couple Motels durring the whole trip and the rest bike camping. Anyone interested in comming along?
Discussion started 05/21/2021 12:25 AM by Awesome - 1 reply (last reply by Awesome at 05/21/2021 12:40 AM)
Awesome from Hartford CT on 05/21/2021 12:25 AM
Taking Amtrack to DC Rent car from Pittsburgh back to CT. A couple Motels durring the whole trip and the rest bike camping. Anyone interested in comming along?

 
Awesome from Hartford CT on 05/21/2021 12:40 AM
Contact Awesomejimosullivan@gmail.com


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Lost GoPro
 -  + Hi All-- I lost my GoPro with a tripod handle attached on Friday, May 14th I think somewhere after West Newton (if memory serves me). If you found it, would really appreciate a message. Thanks!
Discussion started 05/19/2021 03:29 PM by MilkCartonGoPro - 1 reply (last reply by Bill in Houston at 05/20/2021 01:39 PM)
MilkCartonGoPro on 05/19/2021 03:29 PM
Hi All--
I lost my GoPro with a tripod handle attached on Friday, May 14th I think somewhere after West Newton (if memory serves me). If you found it, would really appreciate a message.

Thanks!

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 05/20/2021 01:39 PM
Now you are MilkCartonNoMo? Hope you get it back.


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Current weather and trail conditions
 -  + Can anyone report on current weather and trail conditions. Our family of 4 will be riding Pitt to DC last week of May.we are wondering how many rain days we might have. And how soft the trail might b...
Discussion started 05/04/2021 09:16 AM by Tony - 5 replies (last reply by John W. at 05/19/2021 05:58 PM)
Tony from Louisiana on 05/04/2021 09:16 AM
Can anyone report on current weather and trail conditions. Our family of 4 will be riding Pitt to DC last week of May.we are wondering how many rain days we might have. And how soft the trail might be.

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 05/04/2021 09:36 AM
Scroll down, a thread exists on this subject.

 
Adama from DC on 05/05/2021 09:28 PM
Really hard to say what the weather will be like. You’ll need to prepare for warm and cool weather and hope for the best. Really, the mud is only most problemmatic from MM22 to MM 0, where the trail gets the most use. It is worth carrying one of those thin tools with stiff bristles on both ends to help clean out your sprockets and chain rings.

 
Adama from DC on 05/06/2021 01:34 AM
Really hard to say what the weather will be like. You’ll need to prepare for warm and cool weather and hope for the best. Really, the mud is only most problemmatic from MM22 to MM 0, where the trail gets the most use. It is worth carrying one of those thin tools with stiff bristles on both ends to help clean out your sprockets and chain rings.

 
MilkCartonGoPro on 05/19/2021 03:42 PM
I just completed the Pittsburgh to DC ride last weekend (Fri-Sun). The trail conditions on both the Gap and C&O were pretty much ideal (temps topped out low 70s and trails were dry). The Gap is definitely a smoother trail surface throughout, although it's a looooong slow climb to that Continental Divide. The C&O has some roots, small rocks, potholes except for the 10 miles ro so before Harper's Ferry and roughly 20 miles after Harper's Ferry where the trail has a similar surface to the Gap. I elected to take "advantage" of the Western Maryland trail to pickup some time and take a break from the natural terrain.

If you are taking a similar itinerary/speed/etc., then I highly suggest stopping at the Kickstand Kitchen for lunch on the Gap as there is really not much after that and it's right on the trail. We also stopped in Hancock on the C&O as there is a Sheetz right off the WMRT.

We didn't have any material detours on either trail, so all the major work appears to have been completed.

Last observation, the dust factor was an unexpected aspect of both trails. I highly recommend bringing chain lube, as my bike (and chain) were pretty well coated with dust from the trail after each day of riding.

 
John W. from Pittsburgh,PA on 05/19/2021 05:58 PM
MilkCartonGoPro: How was the Paw Paw Tunnel? Do you go right through or did you take the detour up and over? How was the climb?


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C&O Trail Downstream of Paw Paw Tunnel Status Update
 -  + For anyone that has traveled the C&O Trail in the last few days, is the trail open downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel open or did you have to take the bypass trail up and over the tunnel? Any new signa...
Discussion started 05/15/2021 06:30 AM by Rivnuts - 3 replies (last reply by To at 05/18/2021 07:09 AM)
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 05/15/2021 06:30 AM
For anyone that has traveled the C&O Trail in the last few days, is the trail open downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel open or did you have to take the bypass trail up and over the tunnel? Any new signage in that area?

 
Anonymous on 05/15/2021 10:03 PM
The tunnel is all open no problem getting through the area.

 
John W. from Pittsburgh, PA on 05/15/2021 10:23 PM
Anonymous, can you clarify what happens when you reach the end of the tunnel? From what everyone has understood, you can go all the way through the tunnel but then once you come out the other side, you cannot advance past the construction area and are forced to go all the way back. Hence the detour up and over the tunnel and past the construction area. You’re saying all of the construction is completed? If so, this would be amazing news for riders this summer.

John

 
To on 05/18/2021 07:09 AM
Detour signs are in place as well as barricades. There is no evidence of construction. It appears the the path is easily used and passable. This could change if active construction were to begin. The boardwalk is not damaged but the rockslide does come right up to it but not on it.


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Passing of Steve Huebner Little Orleans Lodge
 -  + Steve Huebner, owner of the Little Orleans Lodge, passed away on May 3rd in hospice care. He was 85 years old. Steve is buried at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Rocky Gap, MD and the lodge is for...
Discussion started 05/10/2021 04:22 PM by John Walker - 0 replies
John Walker from Little Orleans, MD on 05/10/2021 04:22 PM
Steve Huebner, owner of the Little Orleans Lodge, passed away on May 3rd in hospice care. He was 85 years old. Steve is buried at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Rocky Gap, MD and the lodge is for sale.

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