weekends

I don't want to micromanage our weeklong ride in May, but at our age this may the the first and only time to do this, so I want to be aware of variables.
First: Is there a significant difference in bicycle traffic on the weekends as opposed to during the week?
Second: Since we'll be returning to our vehicle at the end of each day's ride, we won't need to seek accommodations right close to the trail. And, since we'll be watching the weather reports, we have flexibility as to when we actually take this trip (mid May). So. What's your best guess for needing to make motel reservations? Do you think there would be a problem finding a motel room without having made a reservation ahead of time? Thanks.

Weekends are always heavier traffic, but not so bad as to create a jam. I have experienced fully booked hotels now and then, its always a good idea to book in advance.

My wife and I plus 2 companions are biking the Passage from Pittsburg to Cumberland Memorial Day Weekend (May 23-25.) I can tell you that quite a few places are filling up fast We're staying in West Newton, Ohiopyle, Meyersdale. WE were told at 2 places we got the last available rooms for that time period. If I'm camping I have plenty of flexibility but if I'm staying indoors I always reserve in advance. Weekday stays usually aren't a problem

Ok then. I can see I'd better firm up the week we want to be on the trail, and get some motel reservations. I'm wondering if 40 miles a day is a bit ambitious. We're not young and we're not in a hurry. For anyone who sees this, how many miles do you average on the trail, assuming stops for photo-ops, meals, etc. That is what's holding me back on making reservations. I don't really know how many miles a day is reasonable. We don't have to hurry; we want to enjoy the scenery, and we'll only ride during the week, thinking it'll take two separate weeks to complete the trail from West Newton to Cumberland.

Ha! Nevermind my last question. I'm overthinking this. :-)

Only will take 3 days at 40 miles per day.

I don't see your age mentioned but if your in reasonably good shape I don't think a 40 mile day will be too difficult. My wife is 64 and I'm 59. We bike regularly (100-200 miles per week.) We sometimes carry only clothing and snacks (indoor stays) or complete camping (sleeping/cooking) gear if camping out. 40 miles is nothing for us and more often than not we include a couple of 60 mile days and still get to see the sites a chat with other bikers. The Passage terrain is very friendly the hills aren't too tough, and there are a ton of interesting stops. Have you considered a one way trip? If your only traveling 20 miles each way per day (40 miles total) it could get boring and you'll probably burn a fair amount of time driving (or looking for) the various trailheads. We tend to stay at a handful of places each trip we learn a little about the B&B owners and favorite eating places and always stay or eat there. The folks at the GI Dayroom in Meyersdale Pa. don't know me by name but they know where I'm from and can almost predict when I'm coming through. I call the lady at Weaver's in Hancock and she has fresh bread waiting for me when I arrive. If you'd like feel free to give me a call 757 619-5522 and I can give you a lot of info based on several thru rides.

Rick, I thank you. I will call. Just to tell what's going on - my husband and I are 70 years old. Though I grew up with bikes, that ended in my 40s; I've battled cancer three different times. The last time was 8 years ago, and 3 years ago, in an attempt to regain strength and flexibility, we bought bikes. My first ride was 3 miles, wore me out, and I could barely return home to take a nap. However, I'm a tough old bird, and last year we took our first two day trip on the Little Miami trail here in Ohio. Now I can do 40 miles a day, averaging 9 or 10 miles an hour. And so, while I'm still upright, I yearn to ride the GAP. We will inch forward 20 miles a day, returning to the trailhead, the van, and to whatever motel or b&b we have reserved. It will not be boring. I am both poet and photographer, and the path is never the same from one moment to the next. But to talk with someone who's done the ride like you have and can share some of the details - details I can't conjure up by reading online - is just what I think will complete my plans. I am delighted! Thank you so much.