Biking the Scenic Great Allegheny Passage: A 150-Mile Adventure Through Pennsylvania and Maryland

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Biking the Scenic Great Allegheny Passage: A 150-Mile Adventure Through Pennsylvania and Maryland
As March arrives and the weather for enjoying cycling is getting closer, I am going to start a series of posts focused on some of the great bicycle trails in the USA. This is the first one.

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a 150-mile trail that runs from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Cumberland, Maryland. This scenic route follows the path of the Western Maryland Railway, which was once used for transporting coal and other goods. Today, the trail is a popular destination for cyclists, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

The trail starts in Pittsburgh, a bustling city that offers plenty of amenities and cultural attractions. From there, the route heads south along the Monongahela River, passing through charming towns and historic landmarks along the way. Cyclists will enjoy the gradual ascent up the Allegheny Mountains, which offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

One of the highlights of the GAP is the Ohiopyle State Park, which spans over 19,000 acres and features several waterfalls, hiking trails, and other natural attractions. The park is also home to the Ohiopyle Falls, a scenic waterfall that is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

As the trail continues south, it passes through the charming town of Confluence, which is situated at the confluence of the Casselman River and the Youghiogheny River. Cyclists can take a break here and explore the town's historic buildings and cultural attractions.

From Confluence, the trail continues south towards Cumberland, Maryland, passing through the beautiful scenery of the Youghiogheny River valley. Along the way, cyclists will encounter several small towns and historic landmarks, including the Frostburg Depot, which dates back to the 19th century.

At the end of the trail, cyclists will arrive in Cumberland, a historic city that offers plenty of amenities and cultural attractions. From there, cyclists can continue on to the C&O Canal towpath, which runs all the way to Washington, D.C.

The Great Allegheny Passage is a must-visit destination for cyclists looking to explore the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. With stunning scenery, charming towns, and historic landmarks along the way, this trail offers a unique and unforgettable experience for riders of all levels and interests. So grab your bike and hit the trail!

Here is the next post of my blog: Must Have Cycling Accessories for Seniors to Stay Safe and Comfortable

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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