C&O / GAP Forum

I am interested in doing the GAP and C&O from Pittsburgh to DC. A friend wants to go from DC to Pittsburgh. All the travel sights go the other way. Are there any pitfalls or concerns about going DC to Pittsburgh? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Going from Washington to Pittsburgh means that is a slight incline from Washington to Cumberland and also a bigger climb from Cumberland to Pittsburgh. Plus the end at Pittsburgh is boring and if you need interesting sights to keep you going at the end then I would prefer to end at Washington.

OMG!!!!!What are you talking about in that the end ride in Pittsburgh is boring. Do you have bad eye site and not look around while you ride? If you ride the C&O to look at history then you will also enjoy the GAP. The trip in either direction is great. There is so much to see in Pittsburgh on the ride in. I am not going get in an argument with anybody because you have your opinion and I have mine. But be real about your comments or just add "in my opinion". :)

Go to the Forum article "East to West?" on Page 5 published earlier here that provides several good comparisons of riding for 9Pittsburgh to DC or vice versa.

Great idea!

Are you kidding me about how "boring" it is to end at Pittsburgh? The Point fountain and views of the city are spectacular. Coming into D C on the canal you are looking at the backs of buildings amd it just ends at deck of Georgetown U

Guess everyone has their preferences and apparently I am in the minority so there you go, Pittsburgh is NOT boring! So gwt off my case people.:)

I prefer the 3 hour uphill struggle to the Eastern Cont. Divide from Cumberland then 1.5 days Constant uphill. Done both, enjoyed both. My opinion.

I liked Pitt to DC. The ride from cont divide down to Cumberland is a lot of fun. Minimal effort.

I just finished doing the GAP trail on April 24, 2019 from Frostburg to Pittsburgh and here is some current info:

Most people go from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, I chose the other way for a few reasons. Once you get past the Continental Divide around MP 23, it's mostly downhill to Pittsburgh. I'm an older biker so I got a shuttle from one of the Cumberland Bike shops up to Frostburg (MP 15), the major part of the climb to 2392 feet. I stayed at the Trailside Inn. You can camp, stay in the hostel or rent a room. The folks at the Inn offer a cheaper shuttle service and can either pick you up in Cumberland and take you up the hill or just shuttle your gear to make the climb easier.

Parking in Cumberland is easy. There's a long-term lot for free just next to the Visitor's center downtown.

Getting back was simpler. Enterprise rental car has an office in downtown Pittsburgh and Cumberland. For less than $100, you can rent an SUV one-way that easily fit my bike and gear. They have larger cars and pick-ups for more than one bike (no bike racks). The office in Pittsburgh is on 11th street and easily accessible by bike. When you reach the end of the GAP trail in Point State Park, continue around the point along the bike path/walkway and in about a half mile there's a large pedestrian ramp to the right under the David Lawrence Convention Center. Go up to Penn Avenue, take a left onto a designated bike lane and go one block to the Grant Street Transportation Center. Enterprise has on office right there. It was very easy. The office in Cumberland is a few miles from downtown. I got there after closing. After unloading gear into my car in Cumberland, I was able to drop off the rental car (they have an after hours dropbox for the keys)and take a taxi back.

Notes on camping:

Husky Haven Campground in Rockwood isn't on a lot of GAP sites but it's a great place to stay.

The Outflow campground in Confluence no longer accepts walk-ups, you have to reserve the site through recreation.gov online or by phone (877) 444-6777. The number listed on the GAP trail camping list goes to the Ranger station.

The hiker/biker campground in Connellsville is right next to town, there's lots of traffic and noise. The KOA campground about two miles north was a lot quieter and had showers.

I just passed them by, but the Roundbottom, Cedar Creek and Dravo's Landing hiker/biker sites looked like really nice places to camp.

The GAP is a great ride, enjoy!

Bill|

We crossed paths at the Pumphouse in Homestead. Glad to hear you found your way to and around the Point to get to the Enterpise office downtown. I presume you, indeed, made it there in plenty of time.

Thanks for the info about no longer taking walkins at the Confluence camping area. It wasn't that way when I last stayed.

The Rond Bottom, Cedar Creek Park and Dravo Landing camping areas are indeed nice camping areas. That said you'll hear the trains along the other side of the river throughout the night at all of them not unlike at the Husky Haven campground in Rockwood.

Thanks to your directions I made it in plenty of time! Hope to cross paths again, Bill

Is this area available for long term parking while I ride to Pittsburgh and back?

For those that have stayed at the Super 8, can I ask how easy it is to get there from the C&O trail? Are there any busy roads to negotiate? I don't mind a bit of extra distance, if we don't have to negotiate busy roads. Appreciate your comments...thanks!

It is just a short way off the trail. The one bike shop that is right there on the trail, has spartan accomodations but reasonable prices and hot showers.

I stayed there three years ago. The Super 8 is, maybe, 1/2 mile off the trail. The road to it is the effective Main Street of Hancock but is pretty wide and, as I recall, has s shoulder to ride on. You just need to keep your eyes open and don't do anything foolish in route. The last few yards to the motel off the main road is slightly uphill but no big deal. I know of no other ways to get there. You could walk your bikes there from the trail in just a few minutes if riding on the road is not your cup of tea.

The rooms there were old and small but clean (cleaner than I was when arriving from Paw Paw all day in the rain). The breakfast was more limited than most as I recall with pastries, cereal and, of course, coffee. I'd stay there again, if not at the "chicken coops" at the bike shop. Then again, you don't have any other options that I am aware of.

I would recommend stopping at Weaver's Restaurant in Hancock for a meal or at least a piece of pie.

I have stayed in the “chicken coop “ at the bike shop several times. It’s a great way to meet other cyclists. You get what you pay for, but that’s part of the adventure of cycling the C&O or any other tour.

I was wondering if the trail was all paved or is some parts of the trail gravel or something else?

Literally speaking there is virtually no paving on the GAP Trail and C&O Canal Towpath Trail in Maryland between the Mason Dixon Line and Washington, DC. There is perhaps a couple of miles of pavement approaching Cumberland from the north.

That said there are two sections of trails that parallel the Towpath itself that are paved. These are the Western Maryland Rail Trail and the Capital Crescent Trail. The former is about 22 miles long (approximately 11 miles on either side of Hancock, MD) and the latter is about the last 3 miles into DC.

There is a, maybe, a couple of miles of paving near Big Pool where the original Towpath was washed out and a causeway constructed as a permanent repair.

All the remainder is crushed stone or compacted earth with roots and small gravel/rocks in route.

Correction: That causeway is between Williamsport and Sharpsburg beginning around Cedar Grove as you head south.

I believe all of the big slackwater section is concrete due to a washout some decades ago. I believe that section is about 3 miles. Other than that if you are on the towpath, you are either on dirt or compacted cinders.

My understanding is that the Paw Paw Tunnel will be closed sometime this year so that they can remove loose rocks, and gravel from above.

Does anyone know the time frame as to when this is supposed to take place? I'm planning on leaving Cumberland and hiking to Harpers Ferry on May 6. Thanks.

See the NPS website for updates. The latest word there is that the tunnel renovations will begin early May but that the tunnel will remain open and flaggers will control the flow of traffic. Expect 10 to 15 minute delay.

Thanks Cenzo. I've hiked the trail before, I just wasn't looking forward to the thought of having to hike over the mountain. :)

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.