C&O / GAP Forum

I'm planning to ride the GAP out and back from Pittsburgh this year. I'm going to drive from Toronto (about 5 hours), leaving early in the morning so I can ride 80km or so day 1. I'll ride to end of the GAP (or just beyond) and back, staying in B&B's (etc).

I've done some reading on this topic but wanted to ask in this forum - where can I "safely" park a car close to the start of the trail (or even 5 miles or so along the trail), where I'm allowed to leave the car for 4 days or so? What are my options, which ones are free, or paid...both are fine to consider in my planning? Dropping off the car and picking it up will be done during the day.

Thanks for posting this as I have the same question. I do not know the safe areas to park and if I pay, what would be a reasonable amount to pay.

According to their site, the First Ave Garage now advertises itself as long-term parking for GAP rides. They encourage you to notify the garage manager for multi-day stays and download the extended stay form. It's not cheap ($13 a day on weekdays, $6 a day on weekends), but it has 24 hour security and is probably one of the safest options.

http://www.pittsburghparking.com/first-avenue-garage-and-station

As for free? I did the trip in 2013 and my friend decided to park his truck in an unmetered spot next to the Cork Factory in the Strip District. The truck was still there when we got back and was not ticketed. Not sure I would I would be comfortable leaving MY car there though.

Besides the excellent advice for the others have given on this thread, you could also check out the parking lots across the street from PNC Park on General Robinson Way. I do not know their overnight policy but I have heard people have parked there for multiple nights. I would check with someone there to confirm. Anyways it’s right across the river, a quick hop over the bridge, and you are at the Medallion indicating the beginning of the GAP at Point State Park. Good luck!

Hi,
My husband and are taking 8 days to ride the entire length of the GAP and C&O from Pittsburgh to DC in late June. Not sure if you were planning at least 1 hotel night or not, but the Hampton Inn, downtown Pittsburgh allows you to leave your car for extended days if you stay there and let them know. Maybe consider coming down the night before, and staying there? That would give you a safe, secure place for your car while gone. Just a thought!

Thanks for all of the great suggestions. I really like the Hampton Inn and it's location to the trail. Also, I have to spend the night somewhere. Enjoying the pre-planning during the cold and snowy winter.

Another option might be to travel and stay a little further out of town in Homestead, PA which is right n the trail. There are two or three hotels in the large shopping area right along the trail and ample, free parking. It's about 8 miles from downtown. You could stay or park there and ride back into town if you wanted to see the city and the origin of the GAP Trail at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers where the Ohio River begins.

Could you be more specific about the hotels and shopping area in Homestead where one might park? Thank you!

There are three hotels in the Waterfront shopping area through which the trail passes. They are: Courtyard by Mariott, Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express. I suspect you would be able to park a car in any of their parking lots simply by asking as there is ample parking at each. Aside from the hotel parking lots, there are acres and acres of free parking including covered parking adjacent to the now closed Macy's Department Store and Dave and Busters which are a couple of blocks from the hotel.

This shopping area (formerly the largest steel mill in the world) has virtually anything you might need EXCEPT for a bike shop. There are grocery stores (Costco and Giant Eagle), clothing/department stores (Target, Ross, Marshall's), specialty retail shops, restaurants (Burgatory, Bravo, Mitchell's, Red Robin,PF Chang, Primanti Bros, McDonalds, Chick Fil A), hardware (Lowes), etc.

There is also a large multi screen AMC theater facility across the street from the Mariott and the Hampton hotels.

I hope this provides the info you were looking for. If not, let me know.

Thank you! You have been very helpful!. I am very happy to have found this forum. Like another writer, I, too, am spending these frigid winter weeks (which is lasting waaay too long in Wisconsin), dreaming about and planning for my summer GAP trip. We are introducing our 14 year old son (who is not as highly enthusiastic about touring as his parents are) to bike touring on this trip. Any suggestions from anyone on how to make this more interesting/ fun for a young teen would be appreciated. I am researching away! (Have found all of the scary /spooky stories associated with Dead Man's Hollow!, We'll spend some extra time in Ohiopyle and raft and zip line as well)...

It's been several years since I've tried to keep a 14-year old happy on a vacation trip but here are some thoughts. There is a large waterslide park (Sandcastle) at the west end of the Waterfront shopping area. There is also a large amusement park (Kennywood) between Homestead and Duquesne. Both would require the better part of a day and you may not wish to spend that much time.


The GAP and C&O trails are all about the history that spawned their existence and use. If you read about the history of the P&LE railroad and the industries along it as well as the history and design of the C&O Canal and the historical events along the way before you make the trip, you'll appreciate the trip much more. History may not be something he cares for but he certainly could write a lengthy paper on "How I spent my summer vacation" having studied, ridden and photographed the trip.


My last suggestion would be to make ample use of the locals in each community through which you pass or spend an overnight or those other trail riders that have already been where you are headed. They can provide more insight as to "what is down the trail" as you proceed. Inquire about quaint/unusual places to eat or visit.

Thanks! We are planning day #1 at either kennywood OR sandcastle ( he gets to choose) then will start biking the following day. I haven’t done much research into the railroad history yet, but will do wth your suggestion. He loves people and to make friends so will seek out some of that “trail magic” in the people we meet. We’re planning mostly B and B stays so that will help! Thanks again. Happy trails!

I came to this forum with the exact same parking questions. Just want to thank everyone who responded. The suggestions have been very helpful.

We are planning a trip in late May/early June to bike the GAP and C&O staying in B&Bs, inns and hotels along the way. Any suggestions as to bike locks? I’m wondering how safe our bikes will be locked outside restaurants and at the inns and hotels that have outside bike racks. Any thoughts?

Thank you,
Joanne

Nearly all the B&B's I've stayed at along the GAP and the C&O have an indoor location to store your hikes overnight. I've actually taken my bike indoor at those few hotels I've stayed, particularly in Cumberland and Leesburg. I admit to not locking my bike at restaurants and inns away from the larger cities and have not had anything taken.

Howeve, I've finally conceded to take along a light cable lock when my bike is not within site when I leave it. It's just not worth, what I believe, is even a small risk. I have had a bike stolen at a coffee shop in downtown Pittsburgh and it's truly a sinking feeling but, at least, I wasn't far from home and not hundreds of mile down the trail.

If your staying in B&B’s, inns, and hotels, you will be able to bring your bike inside or to a secure area. I’ve only stayed at hotel/motels and always brought the bikes right into the room. Never stayed at a B&B but their main clients are likely bicycle tourists so they’ll help you out.

As for restaurants at lunch time, we leaned them against the building and sat next to windows so we could keep our eyes on them. Of course we brought all of our valuables (phone, wallet) inside with us.

Might be a good idea to bring one cable lock with you if it gives you an extra sense of security. When we completed the journey in DC, we spent the next day riding around to different things and needed our locks. Depends on your plans I suppose.

John

I am doing a little test ride on the C&O out of DC tomorrow. I have two bikes I can ride. One is a specialized Crux, the other is a specialized rock hopper. Would like options on what you think the best bike would be for this test ride. I will only ride 25-40 miles. Depends how I feel.

My suggestion and not knowing conditions of C&O I would ride the mountain bike.

Within 40 miles of DC and assuming there hasn't been a deluge rainstorm in the last couple of days, you could certainly ride the cyclocross Cruz with 28mm tires or larger without problem. That said, I'd simply ride the most comfortable one for you.

Good call on the mountain bike choice. It is more comfortable than the cyclocross bike. I have to keep reminding myself that speed isn’t everything. Trail was dry and in good condition. Downside is that I learned a big lesson on saddle choices. A minimal racing saddle I don’t recommend for this type of ride. I will be getting a more comfortable saddle.

Is there any place to buy a fuel canister other than REI near the trail on the way out of Pittsburgh? I would like to get an early start and don't want to wait until REI opens at 10 o'clock.

There is a Dick's Sporting Goods store in Homestead, PA about 9 miles from downtown Pittsburgh that opens at 9:00 am. There is a Lowes in that same shopping complex that opens earlier but I don't that they carry the camping-type gas canisters.

You already mentioned the REI about 3 miles from downtown.

If you really want a daybreak start, I could bring you one or more as I live near the trail and am up early in the morning.

Thanks for the offer Rivnuts but I don't need to leave too early. Dicks in Homestead seems like a good option. That should work out just about right. Thanks for the info.

If you take a bic lighter, you can make a fire anywhere you camp.

Great news that Paw Paw tunnel will remain open during phase 2 construction. No need to do that tough push over the mountain. I'm 68 and I did that detour in the mud two years ago and it nearly did me in. Thank you to NPS for figuring out a way to make this happen. Now if we can get the Brunswick culvert washout fixed, I'm going to try the DC to Pgh trip one more time.

Indeed. This is good news and not having to take the detour up and over the mountain is well worth any brief delay there. Below is the latest news from the National Park Service pertaining to the Paw Paw Tunnel repairs.

"The Paw Paw Tunnel is currently open. Phase 2 of construction will begin the first week of May 2019. During construction, both portals of the tunnel will remain open and flaggers will be stationed to control traffic. Visitors should expect 5-10 minute delays."

Okay, I want to plan a group bike ride to/from Bills Place in Little Orleans & PawPaw. I can't find any straight forward answer as to whether there is direct access to either of the C&O Trail or the Western Maryland Rail Trail. Like, how far off the trail is Bills Place, and how to connect to the trail. Do we need to ride several miles on a road, or just a bike path?
Thanks for any help.

That depends on what your definition of "direct acces" is. If you are planning to drive to Bill's Place and to Paw Paw, you can ride your bikes to the trail easily from both. From Bill's Place, you simply ride down a road with a short grade to 15-mile creek park to access the trail. From Paw Paw, you have to ride a little farther (about a mile) albeit down hill along a lightly travelled highway and bridge over the river to get to the trail.

I' be more concerned about whether the Paw Paw tunnel is open as it is scheduled to be closed this spring for further maintenance. The detour up and over the mountain in route to/from Bill's Place is not rideable and quite challenging if wet.

Rivnuts, thanks. I wasn't aware the tunnel was to be closed again this year. But Yes, we were planning to drive to Bills Place at Little Orleans and bike to PawPaw and back. And we are planning to do that ride on April 27th.

If you are unsupported is there a way to get back to Pittsburgh from D.C. with your bike?

You can take the train. Bikes roll on, leaves DC at 4:00 pm. gets to Pitt. midnight. Best to have reservations. Cost around $80 per person and bike. I have used it several times and had a great experience.

If you are unsupported is there a way to get back to Pittsburgh from D.C. with your bike?

Amtrak may be the least expensive way back to Pittsburgh ($53 + $20 for the bike). It is best to make a reservation ahead of time. The space for bicycles fills up pretty quick this time of year.

Also check out the Amtrak website to see the dimensions of bikes they accept (eg, if you have a fat tire bike, non-standard size bike, or trailer). I believe DC to Pittsburgh has "roll on" service so you don't need to disassemble.

Yes. Amtrak leaves DC around 4:00 PM and arrives in Pgh around midnight. There is roll-on service as well for your bike. You will need both a passenger reservation as well as an add-on reservation for your bike. Bike reservations are limited, so you need to insure there is bike space before making your personal reservation. Go to the Amtrak web reservation page for pricing and more info. I've done it a few times and other than arriving in Pgh at midnight, it normally works fine, I.e. No train delays.

It might be too late to be on this forum, as I am sitting in the Manhattan Social in Cumberland Maryland, grabbing a large dinner and beer before I begin my 2 day voyage back home. Let’s first bring you all to how and where I am now... I outfitted my All City Gorilla Monsoon with a pair of rear Panniers perched on a PDW rear rack, a sleeping bag and some food in a dry bag mounted to the top. As it is mid-March, and all the water is shut off, I have brought 2 64oz kleen kantee bottles mounted to my salsa down under front rack. All together, I will be hauling 100lbs of shit. The train ride up here from DC was very pleasant. I spent the majority of the 3 hour ride in the “viewing carriage” trying to grab a glimpse of the trail I would be riding on. While it all looked good from the train, I am expecting a “sloppy” ride home.
Smooth sailing so far. Only issues was a lost bike lock and a scratched top tube. Honestly, pretty lame cause the Abus lock cost me a pretty penny. This all occurred on the Amtrak ride. The usual bike carriage with the vertical bike stands was not there and the conductor informed me I would need to lay my bike down. I was very hesitant to do this as I didn’t want to scratch my bike, or potentially loose gear in the frantic frenzy to remove the bike before the train took off. Sadly, both occurred. All is good though.
Upon arriving in Cumberland, I rode to my AirBnB host house, dropped the gear, set up my space, and went in search of a replacement bike lock. Because it was after 8pm, only Cycles and Things was open. The gentleman working the shop was super nice and we chatted for a bit about my bike, my ride, and the lack of lock. He didn’t sell me shit... in fact he informed me that I didn’t need a lock. I would be fine on the trail, and that only the occasional local hill-billy would come disturb me, but they would be of no harm (Insert Deleverance Scene).
So here I am, about to embark on a 190 mile bike ride with 100lbs of shit, no bike lock and the thought of unwelcome guests while sleeping. Any last minute suggestions would be welcomed. If none by my completion, I will add more about my experience if others are interested.
-Matthias

Given the trail terrain and that much stuff (100 lbs is a lot!), I hope you don’t expect to average more than 8-10 mph. So you need to be riding by sunrise each day to maximize daylight. And if it’s muddy, you’ll be lucky to average more than 6-8 mph. Good luck!!

Looking forward to hearing your comments on the condition of the trail, especially at slackwater and the Brunswick culvert washout. I'm trying to build up the nerve to do the trip too. Hoping to hear some words of encouragement.

Also looking forward to your update. I'll be between jobs 3/22-4/1 and wanted to try the entire C&O. I love a challenge but it would be my first multi-day bike trip, AND my first high mileage bike trip (on a fat bike no less). Looks like rain is in the forecast that week so not sure I should throw myself in head first for this trip and tough it out. Just not sure how soon I'd have the opportunity to try it again. hoping to drive to Cumberland after the CAPS game 3/24 and start the trip early 3/25

Ride is complete, and what a journey it was. For those curious, the trail was a challenge this time of year. Keep reading for details.
One thing to consider, spring is cold, but summer has the possibility of extream rain too.
I took off from the Air BnB at 7:30, stopped off at a coffee shop in town, and grabbed 3 shots of espresso with a splash of foam. I was already about an hour behind schedule, and I hadn’t even gone a mile. Once on the trail though, I felt great. Conditions were perfect. Cold, but I had a good amount of layers on. The day before, I ventured to Cycles and Things, and was warned about some sharp rocks that cover the right side of the trail. The gentleman told me that this was just before Oldtown, right as the river disappears and the trail turns left. I found his advice to stay left very helpful. Repairing a flat with tubeless tires was not something I wanted to do.
Other than that, the trail conditions for the first 15 miles or so were great. I was averaging about 10mph, which was my goal. After about 15 miles though, the trail started to show signs of limited use from winter. While dry, there were a ton of little sticks all over. Every mile or so, one would get caught in my wheel, brakes, or worse yet, my fenders. A few times, the sticks would get jammed with such force that they would rip the emergency release off, causing the fenders to rub against the wheel. Either way, these stuck sticks required a quick stop, removal,, and then a push to get the 100 lb steed going again.. For anyone who rides in traffic, you will know that stop signs and traffic lights are a huge momentum killer, and cause a ton of “wasted energy”. These excessive stick stops required me to get the 100lb bike moving again, which drained me to no end.
At about mile 25, a tree branch actually broke my emergency release on my fender. I needed to reattach the fender with a dip tie (or remove the fenders altogether, which I did not want to do).
The Paw Paw tunnel was open (they are planning on closing it soon though for phase 2 repairs), and was a huge moral boost for me. Such an incredible piece of engineering. Once emerging on the other side though, be careful again of sharp rocks that may be stuck in the boardwalk like knife blades. Thankfully my tires were tough enough to not get sliced, but thin road or cross tires might have issues.
3 miles after the tunnel, and 35 miles from Cumberland, a giant tree lay across the trail. This seemed like a good place to stop and have lunch. In order to cross this barrier, I needed to take all my panniers of the bike, lift it over, and then gear back up.
There were about 3 more tree crossings, and plenty more stick issues all the way to Handcock, MD. I was averaging about 6mph for this ride, thanks entirely to the debris all over the trail. I had hoped to camp somewhere near Williamsport, and while I think if the trail were pristine this would be possible, I was 20 miles short, and setting up camp at Licking Creek.
Day 2 trail started out much better. I was able to bike all the way to Williamsport without any issues, making great time too. Spirits were high, and I was considering making it a 120mile day, still finishing in 2 days, I kept this mindset for hours. Once at Williamsport, I filled up all my water bottles, and hit the trail again. Still making good time, and enjoying the trail, I figured I would be home around 10pm. Yes, that’s a long day in the saddle, but I was motivated. This all changed about 12 miles past Williamsport near Big Slackwater. A Detour sign warning of “falling rock” seemed like a recommendation to me. I continued along the trail. This is where the mud began. What’s worse, sticks causing a complete stop and start, or mud with a 100lb bike on 650b 47mm tires. Talk about energy waster. About 1 mile after the detour sign, I could see why. Apparently the trail washout is common here, and it is also completely impassible (unless you are willing to swim). Backtracking time. The detour signs led me up a steep hill, through an abandoned farm, and up and down small county roads. After a few miles and not seeing detour signs anymore, I looked at my map and decided to head down Avery Mill lane to the trail again. Once there, I had lunch in front of McMahon Mill (appropriately named, and no known relation).
The next portion of trail is cement “boardwalk” and is pretty easy going, except for all the mud. Still tons of mud. From the detour sign, there were about 15 miles of clear trail followed by thick mud. Again, slowing me down, and making me doubt I would be able to complete the ride without an additional day. These conditions continued (great to horrible) all the way to Snyder’s Landing, causing me to make about 8mph. Once past Snyder’s Landing though, I picked up the pace to around 11mph. As I approached Harpers Ferry around 6pm, I began to realize that completing another 60 miles would be a tall order. I knew there was a big washout about 10 miles ahead. My goal was to cross the Brunswick washout before dark, and then set up camp at the next campsite.
I got to the washout at about 7pm. For anyone thinking this washout is going to be easy to cross, think again. The washout gap is about 50 feet, below and to the right is rushing water and to the left is a congested portion of train track supporting CSX, MARC, and Amtrak. Crossing to the right through the water would be hard (though doable), and crossing to the left across the track would be illegal. I would never break the law, and also would never encourage anyone else to. I was able to cross the gap though, because where there is a will, there is a way.
I set up camp just after the washout, and had completed 70 miles again. With only 50 miles remaining, Day 3 started off great. I was averaging 13 mph. No sticks or mud. This last section of trail was obviously the best cared for. I even saw construction workers after Whites Ferry laying new gravel down. Biking was smooth, fun, and the finish line was near. I took a nice long lunch break at Swains Lock. The trail was getting congested by day hikers, bird watchers, and everyone else out to enjoy the beautiful spring weather.
Back on the bike, the remaining 17 miles were clear. I opted to stay on the Tow Path when provided the option of joining the paved Capital Crescent trail. Once in Georgetown though, I was forced to ditch the trail for some city streets. Finally though, I found the other end.

Recommendations for anyone doing the ride, bring tons of water because most of the water sources are turned off until May. Bring warm cola thing, weather conditions ranged from 22-68 degrees during my 3 day journey. Be patient, and remember what Ralph Waldo Emerson said... “it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey”. What was supposed to be 2 days turned into 3. I am thankful my job was supportive of my ride, and allowed me the extra time needed.

House for sale by owner $28k 30 yards from bike path and close to Yough River. One bedroom, trans heat and air, oil furnace, good and solid, dry. Near Collinsburg Volunteer Fire Dept. oyenations at g mail

Thanks for this description. I'm planning a Cumberland to D.C. through-ride April 18-21 and trying to figure out how to bypass the washout at Brunswick. One of the companies listed on the NPS website quoted me $160 for 1-2 person shuttle between Brunswick and Point of Rocks!!

David, don’t pay money, I think you can figure out how to cross. If you have spare time, maybe take a day trip to Harpers Ferry, bike 10 miles down river, and give it a shot.

You can try and traverse the creek yourself but just proceed with caution. If you’e going to DC the crossing will be to the right of the bridge. If the water is high (and you won’t know it’s high until you get there), I would not attempt to cross. You would then have to backtrack back to the shuttle pickup points. The day we were there the water was low. We had to take all of our bags off the bikes, carry the bikes over the creek, then go back across the creek to collect our bags, go back over, then reassemble. Also know that the rocks are really slippery so I went slowly, step by step, rock to rock. It was work to get everything across but we made it. We lucked out because it was relatively dry compared to the rest of the season. Money saved. :-)

People are adamant about not going up to the railroad tracks and crossing there. Apparently the trains come thick and fast and there’s not a lot of spare room up there on the sides near the rails. I’ve been told the nearby roads that constitute a “detour” parallel to the C&O are very dangerous with little sight distance, narrow or no shoulders, hills, and fast car traffic.

Thanks for the update, looks like i'll have to postpone my attempt since it looks like rain and cold most of the week I'm off and able to try.

Congratulations Matthias! I enjoyed reading your excellent account of your adventure. I did the C and O from Cumberland to Georgetown a few years back under similar conditions and equipment: raining, mountain bike, 50lbs of gear on a rack and panniers. "Challenging" is putting it mildly. Your description of the trip brought back a lot of memories, both good and bad! It took me two days and I just remembered being cold, wet, and constantly starving...haha. I also remembered that throughout the trip, I kept thinking, "I brought way too much stuff". Your description of having to stop and restart momentum is so painfully true. I must have blocked those "good time" memories. I completely agree with your advice of bringing lots of water. I did my trip in January and finding water was only an option while passing through the towns near the canal. They say time heals all wounds...and bad memories, so fast forward to today and I'm about to embark on the same trip. This time: gravel bike, minimal gear, credit card, and the goal of doing it in one day. The rain yesterday has really tempted me to postphone this attempt. I'm hoping Friday's wind will help dry/drain the trail for a weekend attempt. Thanks again for sharing your adventure and welcome to the club!

Thank you for your feedback. My son and I are planning on doing the entire C&O over 4 days and I am particularly worried about the crossing at the Brunswick washout. Really appreciate your input!

Matthias - or anyone else -
Did you see anyone taking the route in the video at the link below?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhDNlqPGyuk

wondering is it is still an option for 5 of us later this month (3 kids 12-14)

thanks!

We're going to be riding from Pittsburgh to DC in the second half of April with our two kids (will be almost-2 and almost-4). Is there a good place to take a rest day half-way-ish? I know we could just hang around our campsite, but I'm wondering if there is anything in particular that our kids might find interesting to go and do.

Also, does anyone have any input on what the weather is generally like that time of year? How cold or hot does it usually get? I'm trying to look that info up on Google, but I thought that it might just be easier to ask people who are familiar with the area. (We'll be coming from MA, so we are well equipped if it will still be getting quite cool at night, but just want to make sure we bring the right gear.)

Your kids might be a little young for this and both towns are not close to half way but you could check out a Frostburg State or Shepherd University baseball/softball game. The schedules are posted on their school athletics page. I hope to do the trip in the fall and maybe see a football game. The actual halfway point is Oldtown. There is the School House Cafe and the The Irvin Allen/Michael Cresap Museum. Good luck!

The GAP and C&O are pretty remote in most places. I can't think of anywhere that is especially toddler-friendly. The more "civilized" places that fit your half-way criterion are Meyersdale, Frostburg, and Hancock although the last is more than half-way. Frostburg probably has the best selection of motels/hotels/eating places since it's a college town.
There is no usual weather in April. You're unlikely to encounter temperatures below 32 degrees or above 80, but it can be anywhere within that range with wind and rain possible. My advice would be to bring layers, including GoreTex, that will fit that range.

Thanks for all the input! I doubt they'd have the attention span for a sporting event, so maybe trying to find some small place to go out to eat, and maybe a playground?? (Any chance any of the small towns we pass through have playgrounds?) might be what we aim for. Just letting them run around and blow off some steam will probably be fine.

As for weather, I guess our best bet will be to monitor the weather predictions closely as we get ready to head down that way, and then bring layers that seem appropriate for what we might see. And yes, rain gear is always part of our layering system, even if just for wind protection.

Indeed the weather and trail conditions are quite variable in April as others have responded. Indeed, the temperatures can be quite varied as well as the amount of precipitation. As for a "halfway" layover, Cumberland, MD at mile 150 of the 334 mile trip is the most populated town on the trail between Pittsburgh and DC. There is a Fairfield Inn (one of the Mariott brands) immediately adjacent to the trail that might be a welcome respite from the trail at that point, especially if the weather has not been or is not ideal. There are a number of shops, restaurants, etc. within a few blocks of the Fairfield. It is a little pricey albeit perhaps not coming from MA.

In route to Cumberland from Pittsburgh there are a number of small, old coal mining villages through which the trail passes many of which have small playgrounds with swings, slides, etc. Most have some form of covered pavilions with benches that provide some shelter if rain is encountered. There are not as many opportunities nor are they in the same proximity to the trail itself along the C&O south of Cumberland.

The children may be most infatuated by the trains that parallel the trail over much of its distance. Unfortunately they run at night as well. :-)

There is a railroad museum in the abandoned train station right on the GAP in Meyersdale. It is probably perfect for 2 and 4 year olds. If I recall correctly, they even have at model train that runs around a track in a part of the museum. Meyersdale is a pretty good stop because there are some diners and, I think, an ice cream parlor, within a few blocks of the trail.

just don't plan on riding your bikes back up the hill in Meyersdale. lock them at the museum and walk down.

Just FYI - we'll be riding the last two weeks of April on the GAP and C&O with our 3 year old and a bunch of friends and family in tow plus Grandma driving the SAG wagon. We're staying in Cumberland for our rest day over Easter weekend. Got a room at the Hampton Inn. What bike set up do you have for the kids? Hope to see you out there!

I would suggest Cumberland which is where the Canal and GAP meet. The Musium at canal place is very kid centric and several places for kids to play.

Thanks for all the responses everyone, and sorry for my radio silence. It sounds like there are plenty of options for ways to keep my kids entertained. Really, at their ages it doesn't take much.

And to answer the question of what our setup is, we ride a tandem and pull the kids in a double trailer.

Fort FRedrick east of Hancock is a nice place to visit with reinactments. Too late for your trip but the 1st week of April is the Maple Syrup Fest in Meyersdale, Pa. The river views of kayakers from the bridges west of Ohiopyle, There are many other places that might thrill even a younger kid.