Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 3/15/2024 8:18:48 PM:
For those planning ahead to ride the GAP Trail and especially for those doing so for the first time, I highly recommend you obtain and read the the book,
“The Great Allegheny Passage Companion” by Bill Metzger
It describes the trails’s topology and geology along with its history and development. The history of the railroads that spawned trail and the towns and features along the way are presented in an easily readable format. The maps, graphics and photos therein present a narrative in and of themselves.
In short, don’t just ride from Pittsburgh to Cumberland as fast as possible with your head down. Look around as you ride and appreciate the trail’s history and features. This book will make the trip significantly more interesting and enjoyable.
To be clear, I have no relationship to the author and do not benefit from this recommendation in any way.