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Elevation change Harnedsville to Markleton
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Bob from Mars PA on 5/28/2012 8:36:52 PM:
We are five couples aged 60 to 70 years old riding the trail from Confluence to Rockwood. I have a concern of the elevation climb of the trail. Is it a challenging up hill climb? Should we consider reversing the direction of our trip?
 
lenny on 5/28/2012 9:09:33 PM:
Just did it Saturday, it is 19 miles. Down hill is easy, wife and I did it in 1hr. 20 min. Back was a little longer 1:45. we are 58 and 57 years of age. Your question is hard to answer, what have you done lately? Do you ride 20 miles regularly? How about the heat?
 
speedster on 5/28/2012 10:15:57 PM:
The grade in that section is nothing very oppressive from what I remember doing it last yr, though I do gather you folks are retirement aged (or thereabouts), so outright stamina probably isn't your strong suit, given age.

Cumberland to Frostburg I believe is the worst direction to be heading as far as grade climb is concerned. Going the other way though from Frostburg to Cumberland is an easy ride for someone with lower endurance as it is a total downhill coast, with little if any pedalling required.
 
lenny on 5/29/2012 4:12:55 AM:
It is the 4th steepest on the GAP, and over 19 miles long ,but still only 1.5% grade.
 
Bob from Mars on 5/29/2012 11:31:33 AM:
Thanks to all. We have been trying to get into shape, 14 miles so far has been the longest ride. We will be taking breaks, checking out the view, etc so it sounds like we will be ok, especially since they are calling for cooler weather. We are hoping the rain holds off.
 
Rod Bruckdorfer from Baltimore, MD on 5/29/2012 2:15:17 PM:
You should be able to do that part of the trail, Just pace yourself, take a few snacks with you - Clif Bar, banana, apple, etc. I suggest you invest in a couple of tubes of electrolyte tablets, such as NUUN, etc. Drink plenty of fluids and enjoy your ride. Also ride a lot before you ride the GAP. Fives miles is better than no miles and before you go do a couple of rides that are at least 75% of the distance you plan to ride.
 
lenny on 5/29/2012 8:21:06 PM:
Bob, be sure to stop on the Pinkerton Bridge and get a look at the Casselman River. One of my favorites
 
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