Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 9/21/2026 4:33:47 AM:
I appreciate your dismay in the unavailability of bike reservations on the Amtrak westbound Floridian route. This is very common especially during the fall touring season and I’ve yet to hear a good explanation. I seem to recall having heard it was related to the availability or application of railcars that carry bikes. I encounter that situation frequently unless unless making my reservation months in advance or reverse my trip and take the eastbound train from Pittsburgh to DC and bike back to Pittsburgh as I will do next week. While still limited, bike reservations in that direction are generally more available on shorter notice.
Unfortunately, my only suggestion I have is to look into a rental car. Occasionally I hear that some bikers find they can get a not too crazy, one-way rental car/truck/van to Pgh from Reagan Airport in DC. It may be worth investigating given multiple bikers to share the cost.
Good luck.