Ride From Pittsburgh, PA to Washington, DC on the Great Allegheny Passage

Do you want to avoid the high cost of a European or other kind of cycling trip for one you can do in three to four days? If you’re located in the United States and you’re looking for a cycling trip that requires little planning, minimal cost, and skips the big crowds, then you should look into riding the Great Allegheny Passage.

What Is the Great Allegheny Passage?

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a 150 mile bike trail that runs from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington, DC. It is built on old footpaths and railroad corridors that take riders deep into the wilderness on “nearly-level, crushed-limestone surface” and over wood bridges.

Unlike many bike trails that are built upon former railroad routes, this trail is much more scenic. Over the three or four days it will take you to ride this distance (or longer if you have the time and resources available), you’ll experience “waterfalls, gorges, river valleys, and farmland…” This trail also isn’t typical in the sense that you will ride 2,392 feet up to the Eastern Continental Divide.

On The GAP, Accommodations, Attractions, and People From All Over The World

Along the GAP route, you will find lots of places to stay, such as quaint bed and breakfasts, campgrounds (if that is more your thing), and guesthouses. You’ll also encounter many “restaurants, bars and grills, creameries, and cafés, and festivals and celebrations [that] take place throughout the seasons.”

The Great Allegheny Passage draws people from 50 states and 40 countries. It receives a million visits every year, and the GAP helps the local economy thrive with the millions of dollars the trail generates.

History of The GAP Trail

The GAP was completed in 2013, but began with a modest 26-mile gift from the Western Maryland Railway. Over many years, locals added to the trail that became the Great Allegheny Passage.

The trail came together thanks to passionate locals and volunteers who also participated in fundraising efforts. Those monies went into converting the former railroad structures into the scenic path it is today. As mentioned on its website, the “Great Allegheny Passage is a world-class path for all kinds of adventures, winding through some of the most spectacular, challenging topography in the eastern United States.”

Last Thoughts

The Great Allegheny Passage sounds like a lovely, fun, and relaxed way to experience a section of Pennsylvania over three or four days. And with the chance to experience different towns and what they offer, this seems like a perfect alternative to a more expensive, high end bicycle trip in the United States, Europe, or other locations.

Plus, weather permitting, the passage stays open year-round to accommodate your travel plans. I’d say, make some plans to do it. Pack your bags and your bicycles and head out soon.