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Return trip w/o Amtrak


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H. Thomas from Great Lakes on 7/22/2020 8:03:06 PM:
I'm looking for reasonably-priced options for a return trip (DC to Pittsburgh) for 3 bikers and their bikes now that Amtrak is not hauling bikes. Any advice?

 
JM from Central Florida on 7/23/2020 2:57:13 PM:
I had the same challenge last week. I rented a mid-sized SUV from Hertz at Reagan National and dropped it off at Hertz, 1318 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, which is a mile and a half from Point State Park. Cost with taxes was $121. My rental was a Toyota Highlander, which is perfect for 1-2 bikes/bikers, but might be tight for 3. When I made my reservation, Hertz had larger minivans for one-way rental at the same price. National Airport is easily accessible by bike if you cross the Key Bridge to Virginia and follow the Mount Vernon trail. There is a paved connection from the trail to the airport. When you get into the airport proper, follow signs directing you to bicycle parking/racks, but just before the racks, turn right through the rental car maintenance area and ask the guys working there how to get to rental car pickup. I rode my bike directly to the rental car counter without the need to store my bike or take a bus. Easy to do if you ask directions. Have fun.

 
Wes from Pittsburgh on 7/23/2020 8:16:05 PM:
You can check your bike on Amtrak.. It’s an additional charge and you must remove the pedals and front wheel then fit it into a bike box. Amtrak has bike boxes for sale at Union Station for $15.