gap bicycle tours

GAP + C&O Trails

Pittsburgh - Cumberland - Washington D.C.

Self-guided Bike Tours

Ride trails separate or combined  - April through October

GAP and C&O Self-Guided Tours

The Great Allegheny Passage trail runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland where it meets The Chesapeake & Ohio Towpath trail which goes to Georgetown (D.C.).  You can ride these trails separately or for a combined ride.

Great Allegheny Passage is a 150-mile crushed limestone trail that follows the Allegheny river by waterfalls and dense tree-lined canopy's. 

C&O Towpath is a 185-mile mostly dirt road with short paved sections, and a couple dozen miles of manicured crushed stone.  You ride through Civil War history with beautiful views following the Potomac River to Washington, DC.

Pittsburgh , United States

Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) 4-day Tour 2024

Ride the GAP - One of America's most famous rail trails. Pittsburgh to Cumberland

FROM $525.00 /pp

Cumberland , United States

C&O Canal Towpath 4-day Tour 2024

Ride America's early transportation history - Cumberland to D.C.

FROM $600.00 /pp

GAP + C&O Towpath 8-day Tour 2024

Ride the GAP + C&O Towpath from Pittsburgh to D.C.

FROM $1,100.00 /pp

PAY ONLY $262.50 /pp DEPOSIT

6 spots left

Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) 4-day Tour 2025

PAY ONLY $300 /pp DEPOSIT

8 spots left

C&O Canal Towpath 4-day Tour 2025

PAY ONLY $550 /pp DEPOSIT

GAP + C&O Towpath 8-day Tour 2025

Gap + c&o self-guided tours comparison.

* PRICE FOR SINGLE: Price for SOLO CYCLIST OR ONE PERSON in a room

GROUPS OF 7 OR MORE, OR RETURNING GUESTS: Receive 5% discount

TOURS AVAILABLE APRIL - OCTOBER

About the GAP - C&O Towpath

Great allegheny passage.

The trail starts in Pittsburgh, PA and finishes in Cumberland, MD through the Appalachian Mountains.  You ride from urban to very rural areas seeing rugged natural terrain and quaint small towns.  The surface is crushed limestone where hybrid bikes or ebikes can ride comfortably over this rail trail.  At the highest point of the trail, you will cross the Eastern Continental Divide and then the trail drops around 1,700 feet over 18 miles before reaching Cumberland.  Highlights along the route include Ohiopyle State Park and “Fallingwater” designed by Frank Lloyd Wright 

C&O Canal Towpath

The trail runs along the north shore of the Potomac River from Cumberland, MD to Washington, DC (Georgetown).  This canal was dug by hand starting 1828 and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal operated from 1831 to 1924 to transport coal from the Allegheny Mountains.  You will ride over 11 aqueducts and pass many of the old locks.  This mostly dirt road with short paved sections, and a couple dozen miles of manicured crushed stone will lead you through Civil War-era national parks and battlefields to the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. 

FAQ's - GAP and C&O Trail

What are the trail conditions.

The GAP trail (Pittsburgh – Cumberland) is packed crushed gravel surface for a smooth ride. Built mainly on abandoned rail beds.  The trail increases in elevation until Big Savage Tunnel where you go downhill1,754 feet in 24 miles to reach Cumberland.

C & O Canal (Cumberland – DC) is a well maintained and mostly flat dirt towpath.  It is less smooth than  the GAP Trail and you will have roots and rocks.  Hybrid and ebikes do well on this surface.  

What is included in your self-guided tours?

Our Self-guided tours include your accommodations at great providers, shuttle to the starting city, GPS mapping and voice directions, electronic itinerary with restaurants recommendations and e-charging locations, themed t-shirt and patch. 

You can also add luggage shuttle, bike rentals (hybrid and e-bike) and extra hotel nights before or after your tour.

What is the best direction to travel?

At Crossroads Bike Tours we prefer travelling West to East due to the more downhill terrain and our services move in this direction as well. 

Where do I start my tour?

We start our tours in Cumberland, MD.  We shuttle you to Pittsburgh on the first day of your tour (GAP and GAPCO) or you start riding in Cumberland for the C&O tour.  There is free parking in Cumberland for the length of your tour as well.  

If you want to start in Pittsburgh instead of Cumberland, you will need to add another night at the end of your tour in Cumberland or Georgetown which is not included in the tour pricing.  

Best time of year to tour?

The trails are open from April to October but we find the best time to ride is Mid-May to Mid-June with less bugs and humidity then again Mid-Sept. to Mid-Oct. for the temperatures and fall colors.

Can I start my tour on another day?

Our start dates allow you to start or end your tours on a Saturday.  If you would like to start on another day, just email or fill out our  "contact" information and let us know what day you prefer.  We will work to make your tour happen.

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Trails > GAP + C&O Towpath

GAP + C&O Towpath

The Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath (GAPCO) is a must-ride trail for all bike travelers. These two bike trails create two distinctly different experiences and one epic journey.

GAPCO 7 Day Tour

Bike the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath in in one full week. Enjoy this 7 day adventure and see the best of both trails.

GAPCO 8 Day Tour

The Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath is a must-ride trail for all bike travelers. These two bike trails create two distinctly different experiences and one epic journey.

GAPCO 9 Day Tour

The 9-day self-guided bike tour option on the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath is a rider’s favorite. Experience just about all this world-class trail has to offer in a happy-medium pace.

GAPCO 10 Day Tour

The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150 mile trail that leads you beneath leafy green canopy and dazzling fall colors, past hidden waterfalls and glens, chasing glimpses of the river beside you. Book your 10 day trip and bike the GAP and the C&O Canal Towpath.

GAP/C&O Canal Towpath

The Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath is a must-ride trail for all bike travelers. Our Bike Tour Blueprint provides all the tools you’d ever need to piece together your own bike tour on one of North America’s most popular trails.

Self-Guided Tours vs. Blueprints

We’re excited to launch a new line of tours: Bike Tour Blueprints. These tours are designed to be an innovative way to give our customers more options and flexibility with the way they experience their favorite trails. Many people have asked us what the differences are between our new Bike Tour Blueprints and our traditional Self-Guided Tours and we are happy to explain! Read more here.

Self-Guided Tours

Enjoy the experience without sweating the details

• Lodging reservations
• Transportation
• Luggage shuttling
• Trail support
• Daily route maps

Create your own bike touring adventure, with expert help

• Comprehensive trail knowledge
• Suggested itineraries, plus tools to develop your own
• Curated lodging and camping directories
• Transportation and bike rental lists
• Digital route map for download and off-line use

About the GAP + C&O Towpath

What’s the GAP/C&O?

The Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath travels over 330 miles between Pittsburgh, Pa., and Washington, D.C.

The Great Allegheny Passage runs through the Appalachian Mountains and traverses rugged natural terrain dotted by small towns. It was the first inductee to the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame and the forested canopy of the GAP offers relaxed cycling to invigorate the senses and unplug from your cares.

The GAP is followed by the incredible history and bustling energy of the C&O Canal Towpath. The canal stretches for 185 miles along an historic transportation corridor that utilized the Potomac River to travel from the East Coast into the interior.

Riding the GAP/C&O

With most of the Great Allegheny Passage being converted from abandoned rail beds, the crushed gravel surface is ideal for hybrid and/or touring bicycles, with an average grade of less than 1%. It runs slightly uphill as you ride south, then slopes downward into Cumberland at a grade of about 1.75%. The GAP is well-maintained and kept clear by volunteers and local municipalities (we provide information on how to further support these organizations with your trip materials).

The C&O Canal Towpath is a dirt surface and bumpy, similar to a forest road, and is managed by the National Park Service. There is little to no grade on the towpath beyond the slight elevation changes at each lock. The majority of the trail is shaded and it is entirely off-road.

Trail Highlights

In additional to truly stunning scenery, highlights along the route include internationally-renowned architectural masterpiece Fallingwater, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright; Civil War-era national parks and battlefields; cast-iron truss bridges and historic stone aqueducts; and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

A Comfortable Pace

Our Great Allegheny Passage – C&O Canal itineraries are designed to give you ample time to take in the sights along the way and experience the region’s natural beauty. It’s also possible to add on an extra night in Pittsburgh at the start or end of your trip and to add time around sites like Antietam National Battlefield.

Related GAP + C&O Towpath Trips

looking for Something Different?

We are proud to offer a wide variety of curated tour itineraries on many of the nation’s best trails.

Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) — C&O Canal Bicycle Tour — 9 days!

October is fall foliage time — enjoy it with us on our adventure of GAP and the C and O! NEW for us- cycle into Washington, DC for a day to enjoy all the Capitol sights! One of Bicycling Mag's “Trips We Love” — our C&O Canal trip was honored in the December 2008 issue of Bicycling Magazine as one of "Fifteen Trips We Love."

• Trip Itinerary
• What's Included
• Additional Info

Day 1: Cycle to Washington, DC (25 miles)

A new tour itinerary! We will meet at the Gaithersburg Comfort Inn before noon-ready to ride! Those driving to the start will follow us down to the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center where you'll park your cars for the week. Others flying in will get a shuttle ride. We're on our bikes and hit the towpath- 14 miles into Georgetown. Roger and Suzie have an exciting day planned to sightsee the "hotspots" of our Nation's Capitol- including the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, Consitutional Gardens, National Mall, Washington Monument, White House - all accessible via bike path and bike friendly streets. This evening we'll have a Welcome Dinner and comfortable stay at the Comfort Inn.

Day 2: Shuttle from Great Falls to McKeesport, PA (25 mile warm-up)

We'll rise early this morning for breakast- load our bikes and board the motorcoach headed for McKeesport, PA at the start of the Great Allegheny Passage. While in route you'll have time to look over our ride packets and maps, and enjoy snacks onboard. Upon arrival in McKeesport, we'll unpack bikes and start pedaling on flat-easy terrain. We stop in about 15 miles to enjoy a peek at West Newton — one of the "trail towns" and a historic community persuing exciting renovations. Just a few miles later at the Cedar Creek Park Trailhead, we'll take our exit from a long and fulfilling day and head for our comfy stay at the Comfort Inn-Belle Vernon and a terrific buffet dinner.

Day 3: Ohiopyle & Falling Water (39 miles)

After breakfast we hit the trail again — following the banks of the rugged Youghiogheny River — its beauty renowned in the East. We continue our adventure pedaling an easy cadence and taking in beautiful countryside when we reach the historic town of Connelsville for our lunch break. In the early 18th century European traders found great wealth in the fur trade here and later other natural resources — iron ore and coal would lay foundation for the prosperity of the iron and steel industry. We hope to make a visit to the Gibson House — the future home of the Connelsville Historical Society. More stretches of woodland cycling are enjoyed until we arrive at Ohiopyle — located at the confluence of the slopes of the Laurel Ridge and the "white frothy water" — the Indian meaning of Ohiopyle. Here we'll check in to our guest house and be shuttled to our visit to Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece — Falling Water.

Day 4: Meyersdale (44 miles)

We rise early for a hearty buffet breakfast and hit the trail. Following the breathtaking Casselman River Valley landscapes we find the charming trail town of Confluence. The locals boast that "the mountains touch the rivers" here. We'll take a break to explore this quaint community before heading back onto the trail. At Mile Marker 43 we reach the town of Rockwood and it's time for lunch. Once a thriving rail town when locomotives came steaming through town, now Rockwood offers us a hospitable respite along the trail. We'll stop by the Mill Shop Coffee Shop and bakery housed in a lovingly restored turn-of-the-century building that boasts a delightful vintage train circling an 80-foot track suspended from the ceiling. This year we are having a Pizza Party lunch at the Shop! As we approach our day's destination- Meyersdale — we partake of some of the most beautiful scenery of the GAP — one of our favorites being the 1900 ft. Salisbury Viaduct. We'll enjoy lodging at the Levi Deal Mansion and/or Morguen Toole where we'll also feast on a scrumptious buffet in the Inn's restaurant.

Day 5: Frostburg-Cumberland (32 miles)

We leave Meyersdale and start to climb — very slowly and gradually — to the highest point on the passage. At Milemarker 30 we cross the thrilling Keystone Viaduct and shortly therafter we are at the Eastern Continental Divide. From this point it's an exhillarating 10 mile downhill pedal along the trail and over the Mason Dixon Line towards Frostburg, MD. At Frostburg, we stop at the train depot for a snack or lunch, behold the famous Western Maryland train as it pulls into town, and hop back on our bikes to enjoy another 14 miles downhill along the new Allegany Passage Trail connector into downtown Cumberland — the terminus of the C&O Canal. We'll take time for a visit with a NPS Ranger and town walk with Cumberland resident, Meg Romero, to explore the restored downtown and Canal Place. That evening we enjoy a delicious dinner and lodging at the beautiful Holiday Inn.

Day 6: Little Orleans (43 miles)

Day Six- we wake to breakfast at the hotel and an early start on the first leg of our trip on the historic C and O Canal. At the midway point in Old Town, we'll rest at the canal park and enjoy a catered lunch by the lock.

Following the river, the towpath follows a zigzag route for another 10 miles until the famous Paw Paw Tunnel .

We finish our day at Fifteen Mile Creek in Little Orleans. Some of the more enthusiastic riders may opt to pedal the moderate 8 miles uphill, while others will be shuttled at the exit of the canal to a wonderful buffet dinner created by our hosts at the lovely Town Hill Bed and Breakfast . We'll continue the evening watching the sunset atop the Green Ridge State Forest and enjoy our wonderful accommodations.

Day 7: Hancock-Williamsport (40 miles)

Day seven starts off with a bountiful breakfast and beautiful pedal down the hill (or shuttle) to the canal where we'll resume south towards the once bustling canal town of Hancock, MD.

Suzie and Roger … bend over backwards to make sure that everyone is having a good time. ~ Lynn Reed

In 6 miles we'll be joining up with the new Western Maryland Rail Trail -an asphalt paved path reclaimed from the former Western Maryland Railroad providing a scenic and fast 14 miles into lovely Hancock. Here we'll stop by our friend Dennis Hudson's Bike Shop and then on to a tasty lunch at a nearby restaurant.

We depart Hancock enjoying the final 10 miles on the rail trail and exit — for a quick one mile pedal on road -to the entrance of Fort Frederick State Park. Here we'll break for refreshments and tour the fort guided by our host dressed in period attire from the French and Indian War.

Pedaling through North Mountain and sites as Four Locks and Dam No. 5, we arrive at Cushwa Basin and Williamsport, MD. Our group will meet with the Park Ranger and learn fascinating history about the Williamsport area (designated to be our Nation's first capital) and life on the canal.

We end our day at the newly remodeled Red Roof Inn, delicioius catered meal and entertainment by "Henry and June" at Desert Rose Cafe.

Day 8: Antietam-Harper's Ferry

We rise Saturday morning to a hearty breakfast and a full day of bicycle touring towards Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Our favored route is the 32 mile road cycle along quiet rolling backroads to visit historic Antietam Battlefield and if you like, an extra 5 miles for lunch in lovely Shepherdstown, W. Va. Other cyclists can opt to take the towpath all the way to Harper's Ferry for a 44 mile meandering route along the river. Whatever option is chosen, we'll pass many wonderful sights and enjoy a mid-way visit to historic Shepherdstown for lunch with Suzie and Roger.

One of the highlights of our trip is a visit by Rick Garland of "Oh be Joyful", who entertains us with his historical story telling and piano serenade at our lodging at the Cliffside/Quality Inn during dinner.

Beyond the obvious, good food, good company and fantastic organization, there was something more to the trip that made it special. It was the accomplishment. ~ Mal and Janice Dougherty, Massachusetts

Day 9: Great Falls- Homeward Bound!

Our final day-- we start bright and early with a buffet breakfast in the Cliffside restaurant and pedal back to the towpath. Our final day's route travels 45 miles — passing the towns of Brunswick and Point of Rocks.

Midway, we'll break for a bountiful picnic lunch by Suzie at the White's Ferry.

Just 15 miles through Besher Management area, Seneca and then Pennyfield and Swains Lock to a great finish at Great Falls Tavern .

• EIGHT nights lodging at inns hotels and guest houses
• All wonderful breakfasts and dinners, picnics and snack stops
• Shuttle for cyclists and transport for bicycles to the ride start
• Vehicle for luggage transport and route assistance
• Meetings with park rangers, visit to Falling Water, Fort Frederick visit, stop in Antietam, historic walking tour, entertainment & more!
• Ride packet with cue sheets, maps & items of interest

Trip Difficulty

The Great Allegheny Passage surface is made of packed crushed limestone surface and provides a smooth easy ride. As it was built on abandoned railroad beds it is nearly level. We will be traveling west to east and experience an average 1% slow/gradual upgrade.

The C&O towpath is flat and "very rustic" — most of the trail is hard-packed dirt with some areas mixed with small stones for traction. We'll be dropping 625' in elevation from near the Continental Divide all the way to our destination in Great Falls.

On several days we offer an option to leave the towpath to visit historic destinations, such as Antietam Battlefield, which requires cycling on public roadways. We are careful to select the safest and most scenic routes possible.

This trip is best suited for a cyclist with some experience or other active people who are willing to train to accomplish this 30-40 mile/day ride. Please note that even though the C and O Canal towpath is flat, the surface is hard packed and rustic in nature thus takes more effort and cycling ability than a paved surface.

Cyclists will be most comfortable and safe cycling a touring/hybrid bicycle with at least a 28-35mm tire with good tread. We can arrange for rental bikes upon request.

Getting There

Traveling by auto, your best driving directions are accessible through MapQuest .

If you plan to fly to the trip start, you will be choosing Reagan National Airport — the closest choice with excellent shuttle and metro services to the Great Falls area. Our trip starts early on Saturday morning, and we advise those that fly into Washington, D.C. or who plan to sightsee the Nation's Capitol with us to arrive either very early on Saturday morning or book a room for overnight on Friday(not included).

Additional Information

Please contact us for general trip information and registration information.

Upon registration we will send you a Welcome Letter full of pre-trip details including how to get you and bike to the trip start, bike rentals, suggestions on packing, trip area and contact information, cycling and travel websites to enhance your trip experience, etc.

E-mail Suzie to inquire about openings and with any questions about the tour. We love to hear from you!

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C&O Canal/GAP

Level of support - fully supported.

Adventure Cycling’s fully supported tours — where all personal and group gear is transported by a vehicle each day — are larger groups (typically between 40 and 90 riders) who will camp together with occasional indoor overnights and enjoy catered meals. Indoor lodging options are often available at the participant’s expense (see “Accommodations” for more information). Learn More

Physical Difficulty - Level 2

A great option to get out and explore. The average daily mileage for the tour is 35-45 miles per day. There is a little more climbing involved, generally characterized by rolling terrain. An occasional hilly section may be part of the route. Average daily elevation gain is between 1000-2000 feet, with any single day total not exceeding 3000 feet. (Formerly Beginner+ tours)

Average Mileage: 30-45/day Average Elevation Gain Range: 1000-2000ft/day, high <3000 ft/day

This fall, you won’t worry about traffic as you ride your hybrid or mountain bike 330 miles on gently graded gravel trails from the heart of the nation’s capital north into Pennsylvania. Historically, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal served as a lifeline for early settlers. Today, it serves as a pathway to an unforgettable cycling experience.

We’ll begin with a visit to the National Mall, and then, after bidding adieu to DC, we’ll head through stylish Georgetown and deep into rural Maryland. We’ll visit Antietam National Battlefield, site of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle, and Fort Frederick, a restored 1756 British outpost. In lively Cumberland, Maryland, we’ll move over to the Great Allegheny Passage, a stellar rail trail completed in 2006. Upon finishing in Pittsburgh, we’ll catch a shuttle back to Washington, DC.

There is no longer a 2024 departure. Please check back for 2025 availability.

“Our tour leader was excellent+.” – Tour Participant

Day 1. Arlington, Virginia, 0 miles

We’ll gather just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC, where we’ll meet our seasoned team of leaders and have our first map meeting, dinner, and overnight. If you arrive early enough in the morning, you’ll also have the opportunity to join us on a guided cycling tour of the National Mall.

Day 2. Arlington to Brunswick, Maryland, 59 miles

Our ride through history begins by pedaling across the Potomac River together and stopping to snap a group photo on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. After a few miles on the Capital Crescent Trail, with its dozens of joggers and cyclists, we’ll ride into deep hardwood forests and on to George Washington’s route west: the towpath paralleling the C&O Canal, a 184-mile-long National Historical Park. Soon you and your new friends will ride past Great Falls Park, where the Potomac River gathers speed and force as it tumbles over a series of jagged boulders in the narrow Mather Gorge. The farther we get from the nation’s capital, the wilder our surroundings become. We’ll set up our tents next to the canal.

Day 3. Brunswick to Williamsport, 50 miles

Today our group will ride a section of the C&O that runs along the Appalachian Trail. Maybe we’ll even catch sight of a few through-hikers heading north. Later we’ll take leave of our bicycles and walk up the steps and over the bridge spanning the Potomac to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, the place where the Civil War began. We may temporarily leave the C&O and pedal through a rolling farmscape to Sharpsburg and the Antietam National Battlefield. The peaceful atmosphere at Antietam today belies its place as the bloodiest one-day battle in American history, on September 17, 1862. We’ll wrap up today with a program by the National Park Service on the history of the C&O Canal and camp tonight just outside of Williamsport.

Day 4. Williamsport to Little Orleans, 46 miles

After a tour of Fort Frederick State Park, which preserves a pre-Revolutionary War British outpost, we’ll jump off the dirt-surfaced C&O and onto the Western Maryland Trail, a 22-mile, hard-surface rail trail. Next up is the quaint little town of Hancock, where Weaver’s Restaurant & Bakery serves what are reputed to be some of the very best homemade pies east of the Mississippi. We’ll set up our tents and later a local historian will give us even more insight into this fascinating area.

Day 5. Little Orleans to Cumberland, 45 miles

Today we will pass through the single most impressive structure on the entire C&O Canal: the Paw Paw Tunnel. Excavated between 1836 and 1850, this cool, damp, and mysterious passage burrows through the hills for some 3,100 feet. Our final stretch of the C&O Canal will take us into the beautiful town of Cumberland, with its friendly citizens and classic downtown pedestrian mall. We’ll also sample the frozen treats scooped up at the Queen City Creamery. At this half-way point, you’ll enjoy an indoor stay along with all Cumberland has to offer.

Day 6. Cumberland to Rockwood, Pennsylvania, 44 miles

First thing this morning we’ll pedal on the crushed limestone surface of the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail to begin a long but gentle uphill that takes us into the Allegheny Mountains. Our group will surmount the Eastern Continental Divide, which marks the division point between the Chesapeake Bay and Gulf of Mexico watersheds. We’ll also cross the famous Mason-Dixon Line, going from Maryland to the Keystone State of Pennsylvania. Today’s ride proffers the best long-distance views of the entire tour and also presents the opportunity to pedal through another impressive tunnel, the 3,300-foot Big Savage.

Day 7. Rockwood to Connellsville, 49 miles

Early on, we’ll spin through Ohiopyle State Park, with its beautiful bridges and waterfalls, perhaps pausing to visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s nearby architectural masterpiece, Fallingwater (a shuttle will be provided between Ohiopyle and Fallingwater). There’s also a wealth of terrific hiking trails in the state park in case you’d like to get off the bike for a while and stretch a new set of muscles. For much of the day, our group will follow the Youghiogheny (YOCK-uh-gay-nee), known as the whitewater mecca of the East. If autumn is in the air, we’ll inhale the hearty essence of duff decaying on the forest floors and the delicious scent of hardwood smoke wafting from farmhouse chimneys. You’ll set up camp right on the river’s edge outside the town of Connellsville.

Day 8. Connellsville to Pittsburgh, 57 miles

On this, our final day, we’ll pedal through the old mining towns of Dawson and Whitsett, as well as through Cedar Creek Park, and then ride out of the Allegheny Mountains toward McKeesport where the Youghiogheny and Monongahela Rivers converge. We’ll finish the ride at Station Square in Pittsburgh with an option to ride on to “The Point,” Point State Park, and back. After we convene, it’s time to enjoy a shuttle back to our starting point in Arlington. True, the trip may be over, but the memories of the traffic-free pathways you pedaled through one of the most historically important regions of America will stay with you for years to come.

Accommodations - Camping/Indoor

Most of the overnights will be at private or public campgrounds with a range of amenities. Depending on the nature and location of the trip, these facilities could range from RV parks with hot tubs, to wilderness locations without running water. Indoor facilities such as motels/hotels, hostels, and churches are used occasionally, but on our more remote trips, some primitive camping is possible. Epic tours generally see about one indoor overnight every ten days. Overnight facilities vary, but tents are typically pitched on large, flat, grassy areas. You will need a good freestanding tent with a ground cloth, a sleeping bag rated appropriately for the season and elevation of your tour, and a sleeping pad.

Meals - Catered

Our catering staff will provide all meals and rest stops will be located approximately every 25 miles. You’ll start each day with a hot breakfast, followed by a mid-morning rest stop to fuel you on to lunch. Another rest stop awaits you mid-afternoon and you’ll be rewarded each evening with a sumptuous dinner. Vegetarian and special dietary needs will be accommodated, though food selection may be limited in some locations.

Physical Difficulty -

Technical difficulty - easy to moderate.

Characterized by travel mostly on hard-packed dirt roads and trails, Easy to Moderate Technical Difficulty tours can typically be ridden on a rigid-frame bike with a tire size of 35–42mm. You may find some loose gravel/dirt on stretches of the route on tours with this rating. This technical rating may also be applied to tours with mixed paved/dirt surfaces.

Terrain - Rolling Hills

Tours with Rolling Hills are those that have a bit more climbing in them, but the grades are still fairly relaxed. We’ll typically see climbing of less than 1,800 feet per day and venture into the 2-5% average for grade. (19-38 vertical feet/mile).

Single Supplement: - $325.00

Know before you go.

Information for eBike riders : Because every rider, eBike, road condition, and elevation profile is different, it is ultimately up to the participant to judge best whether their battery will last through each tour day. We recommend using pedal assist in its lowest setting or off when not needed to maximize battery range. Bringing a second battery is also recommended and can be carried by staff on our fully supported events.

• Where To Go
• Interactive Map
• Printable Map (PDF)
• Trail Towns
• Sites & Amenities
• Points of Interest
• Refreshments
• Campgrounds
• Information

Several renowned trip-planning services will set up a self-guided or professionally-guided tour of the Great Allegheny Passage and the adjacent C&O Canal Towpath. Or, if you’re exploring on your own, there are wonderful side trips — whitewater rafting, canoeing, and historical tours — worth adding to your itinerary. Discover some options here.

• Lodging/Trip Packages
• Bike and Gear Rentals
• Custom Trip Packages
• Trip Consulting
• Shuttle Service
• Luggage Transfer
• GAP Resources
• Used Bike Sales
• Gift Certificates
• Location & Hours
• Trip Advisor

The 334.5 mile adventure along the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath is likely to raise 334.5 questions.- how to plan, what to pack, where to eat….it can be overwhelming.  And, that is why we are here.  The following page will address the questions that you may have about the trip, the trail, our services and more.  And of course, you can always call us at 412-600-0675.  We are here to help!

Great Allegheny Passage FAQs

About the ride, what can i expect from the terrain.

The GAP trail (Pittsburgh – Cumberland) has a packed crushed limestone surface for a smooth ride. Built mainly on abandoned rail beds, the trail is nearly level, with an average grade of less than 1%. The steepest eastbound grade – 0.8% – is from Harnedsville to Markleton and Garrett to Deal. The steepest westbound grade is from Cumberland to Deal at 1.75%. Near the Big Savage Tunnel, the trail crosses the Eastern Continental Divide. From that point going east, the trail drops 1,754 feet in 24 miles to reach Cumberland and, going west, it drops 1,664 feet in 126 miles to reach Pittsburgh.  Below is an example of the GAP’s surface.

C & O Canal (Cumberland – DC) is a dirt towpath.  It is well maintained and also mostly flat.  Because the towpath is mostly dirt and slightly less smooth than the GAP Trail,  you will encounter roots, rocks and mud – particularly if you experience inclement weather.  However, it is by no means a trail that requires a mountain bike or mountain biking skills.  In most places it is wide, smooth and easily navigated.  Below is an example of the path surface in dry conditions.

How many miles is the trail?

You’ll ride approximately 335 miles between Pittsburgh and DC, 150 miles between Pittsburgh and Cumberland and 190 miles between Cumberland and DC.

What should I bring!

One of the thousands of amazing things about this trail, is that you are passing through towns on a pretty regular basis.  If you forgot or need something along the way, you can usually find it.  It also means that you don’t have to carry a lot of gear, or food, or water.  Keep your gear and weight low….its easier on you and the bike!

A couple bottles of water, rain gear, a few snacks, clothing, toiletries and any other basic necessities that will keep you comfortable are all you need.   Check out this awesome blog post about one item you may have not thought of….earplugs!

What should I expect from the accommodations?

Whether you’re a Western PA native, or you’re coming from across the globe to ride the GAP, there are a few things you should know about the region, the town’s along the way, and their amenities. Its our goal to match your expectations up with your experience.

Check out this link to find out everything you need to know about the accommodation experiences provided by the trail towns and their resident business owners

Or, check out a sampling of our lodging partners below:

Bright Morning B&B- West Newton, PA

The Towns Inn- Harpers Ferry, WV

Yough Plaza Motel- Ohiopyle, PA

Thomas Shepherd Inn- Shepherdstown, WV

Levi Deal Mansion- Meyersdale, PA

Fairfield Inn Cumberland, MD

What should I expect from trail towns?

Whether you are a Western PA native, or are traveling across the globe to ride the GAP, there are a few things you should know about the region, the town’s along the way, and their amenities.  From the 2,500 residents of West Newton to the 42 of Little Orleans, expect that small town feel.

At Golden Triangle Bike we want your expectations to match up with the experience.  Here are some details about the trail town

Which direction should I travel?

There is plenty of information and opinion out there on the best direction to travel.  There is no easiest or hardest direction.  At Golden Triangle Bike, we prefer west to east (Pittsburgh toward DC) because of our location.  Your riding experience and expectations all something to consider (another reason to let us help you plan). Remember that the steepest portion is between the continental divide and Cumberland.  At 2.5% it is by far the hardest climb or the most exhilirating descent of the trip.  This section is roughly 25 miles.  Traveling west to east lets you cruise down, east to west is an invigorating uphill.  Check out our resources section for more info on milage and elevation.

Can I self plan?

Golden Triangle Bike wants you to have the BEST possible experience on the Great Allegheny Passage.  Letting us assist in arranging your itinerary, lodging, side trips and beer/ice cream breaks is the best way to make sure your trip is a success. You can check out our Trip Planning Services Here .

If you are a glutton for punishment (just kidding) and you don’t mind spending some time figuring it all out, check out our resources section below. They are a great place start.

How many miles should I plan to ride per day?

Our motto at Golden Triangle Bike is “ride relaxed”. No matter what your riding experience, you will likely average somewhere between 7-10 miles an hour.  When you push yourself, your bike and the trip, you are increasing the risk of being delayed by injury or mechanical difficulties.  Take it easy, shut off your phone, take in the beauty and have fun…..its that type of trip.

Planning your trip around 35-60 mile days is reasonable.  A trip plan with consecutive 50+ miles days or single 60+ mile days is aggressive.  Golden Triangle can talk you through this process and suggest an itinerary as part of our Trip Consulting Service.

Whats the best time of year?

Each season (spring, summer and fall) has its own unique beauty on the trail.  The “season” runs from late April to late October.  Ideal trail surface sets up around mid-May…so we recommend waiting until that time frame at the earliest.   Any trip later than mid October can potentially see temperatures in the mid-30’s and sometimes SNOW in the upper elevations! July and August are awesome months for those who don’t mind hotter tempuratures. There is less rain, and accommodations are plentiful at this time of year.   The most popular times of year, are late May through June for spectacular spring….and September through mid-October for fall foliage.

What kind of weather can I expect?

Chances are you will encounter some rain.  There is a higher chance in spring and early summer and temperatures range from the mid 40’s to upper 60’s in the spring and fall.  The summer offers temperatures that average from high-60s to mid-80s. For a more accurate average temperature, visit the website HERE

Bikes and Gear

What are the best bike options for the trail.

We are 100% confident that our bike options are exactly what the trip, trail and terrain demand. Our mechanics ensure that your bike is tuned to perfection and trail ready prior to your arrival.  Upon your arrival, our fitting specialists will make adjustments to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible before you hit the trail.  You can check out our options  HERE

If you are considering using your own bike here are some tips and things to consider:

• Use a minimum of 700x32c tire.  Even at this size your ride on the C&O will rattle your teeth!  If you have inclement weather or the trail conditions are not ideal (early spring), you will have problems with anything less.
• Road bikes are not good.  Don’t do it.  Its not worth it.
• Front Suspension is not vital but is great!  It allows you to cruise over the ruts, roots and terrain of the C&O, rather than navigating around it.  A little goes a long way to keep you moving forward and riding at a steady pace
• Shipping your bike can be expensive.  Breaking down, boxing and rebuilding…then, doing it again on the return trip can be REALLY expensive.  If you decide to go this route, Golden Triangle Bike can receive your bike and build it…give us a call to find out more. 412-600-0675

Exactly what equipment will I get as part of the Fully Equipped rental package?

Our bike rental packages include helmet, lock, rear rack, rear panniers (2 panniers 850-950 c.i. each), small water-resistant handlebar bar, headlight, multi-tool w/chain tool, one tube, bottle cages, pump and bell. Please let us know if there are any additional items that you may need or want to take on your adventure.

Here is a photo of the gear:

Are your panniers big enough for all my stuff/gear?

The panniers are all roughly 12″x15″x6″.  Most people find that they can fit everything they need in the panniers….even on an 8-10 day trip!  Of course, you will have to pack light and be mindful of what you carry.  We recommend packing less than 15 lbs of gear in order to reduce stress to you and the bike, so leave the hair dryer at home!  You will thank us later!  If carrying your gear is out of the question, no problem…..give one of our gap guides a call and get a quote for point to point luggage service.

How many days can I keep the bike?

As long as you like!  Contact us and we will get you the best deal on a multi-day package.

What other equipment can I rent from Golden Triangle Bike?

We’ve got it all.  If we don’t, we can get it.  Bags, racks, phone mounts, trip computers, bar ends, the kitchen sink.  Whatever we can do to make your trip more awesome, we will do it.

Can I bring my own saddle/helmet/odometer/panniers/pedals for my rental bike?

Yes!  No problem at all.  Make sure you run it by our crew to ensure that your items are compatible.

Do I need to have extensive mechanical knowledge for a self supported trip?

The overwhelming majority of our customers do not even encounter a flat tire much less a serious mechanical problem. Our bikes go through a detailed process before they are deemed “Trail Ready” by our expert mechanics.  We do everything we can to make sure that you have a trouble free trip.  However, wether you are using our bike or your own, there are no guarantees.  If you are taking a self-supported trip you should know the basics of bike maintenance.  How to adjust a brake, change a flat, adjust a handlebar and tighten a saddle are very important when you are out on the trail.  Your local bike shop, outdoor store or REI will often offer basic bicycle maintenance classes if you need to learn from scratch or just need a reminder.

Its also important to remember that one of the awesome details of this trail is that you are never too far from a town or bike shop.  There are also a lot of super friendly folks using the trail.  If you have an issue that you can’t handle, chances are you aren’t far from a bike shop or a friendly face that can help you out.

About our location and what to expect when you arrive

Our little shop is nestled under the First Avenue T-Station, right in Downtown Pittsburgh.  We are located directly on the Great Allegheny Passage about 1-1/2 miles from Point State Park (the Western Terminus of the Trail).

When you arrive at our shop, we’ll be ready for you.  We are anticipating your arrival.  Your bikes, paperwork, and a friendly face will be waiting.  We will take our time in making sure that you are comfortable and have everything you need for the adventure.  However, we are not a “traditional retail shop”, so we really only carry the basics.  If we don’t have what you need, we will point you in the right direction.  There are plenty of opportunities to buy that French Chamois Creme that you love before you head out of the Burgh.

Our modest facility is not equipped with a restroom or changing room, but don’t fret, we are located next to the First Avenue Parking Garage  and Gasoline Street Coffee  both of which offer facilities to our customers.  The garage is also a great place to part during your trip!

We are looking forward to seeing you and assisting you on this adventure!  If you have any questions, please call us at 412-600 -0675

Can Golden Triangle Bike offer a trouble free gaurantee?

Sorry, but NO.  Golden Triangle Bike cannot guarantee a trouble free trip.  Bikes break, trails flood, rain happens, B & B’s burn down….and you are on a 300+ mile bike trip in the woods.  Stuff happens.  We do everything in our power to make sure your trip is awesome.  We can count on one hand the amount of times our tens of thousands of customers have had a serious issue that delayed their trip.  Its rare, but we can’t guarantee a trouble free trip.

Check out our TERMS AND CONDITIONS for more info.

How should I pack? What should I bring?

The most important things that you can bring are for you own personal comfort, mike maintenance and safety.  Rain gear, basic first aid, ear plugs, cycling shorts, multi-tools, tubes, lock, pump, tire levers, etc…..these simple items can make a break a day on the trail.  If you forget them, no problem!  We supply many of these items with our  fully equipped bike rentals  and sell them at our shop.

We also recommend packing your gear in water proof plastic bags or even garbage bags.  Then, slide those into water proof panniers and you are good to go. No one likes soggy underwear!

Most of your basic necessities can be picked up in the small towns that you will pass through.  We encourage you to visit the businesses along the trail and pick up whatever you need along the way.

Finally, pack as light as possible if you are carrying your gear. Your body and bike will thank you for not making the trip harder than it has to be by loading you down with tons of stuff!

Do I need to pack food? How much water?

One of the many great aspects of the trail is that you are passing through towns on a fairly regular basis.  Two water bottles and some snacks are usually plenty to get you to the next town where you can restock.  So, don’t weigh yourself down with more water and food than necessary.  Enjoy the benefits of traveling light and restock in town.

Fun Fact: The word “Passage” in “Great Allegheny Passage” refers to the notion that you are passing through towns like a boat passes through ports while at sea.  Access to food, water, lodging, and amentities were all part of the construction and planning that went into the Great Allegheny Passage.

Will I be charged for damages to the bike?

Again, this is a very rare occurrence.  From time to time, it happens.  We expect the normal wear and tear that comes along with a 300+ mile bike trip. But, if you turn in the bike in two pieces, you can expect to hear from us.

More info at our Terms and Conditions page

Does Golden Triangle Bike or anyone else offer emergency services?

If you any sort of serious emergency, you should dial 911.  Golden Triangle Bike is available during regular business hours to help you with any other issues that may occur.  Need a shuttle to the next town?  Have a mechanical issue?  Need directions to the nearest beer and/or ice cream?  Give us a call.  If we can’t help, we will do our best to get you to someone who can….

What if I need to cancel?

We do everything we can to refund as much money as possible in the event of a cancellation.  Unfortunately, we rely on a host of contracted services (lodging, shuttling and transfer services) that all have separate fees for cancelation.

Please refer our cancellation page for what you can expect if you have to cancel

Getting to Golden Triangle Bike for the start of your trip

Many of our riders come in from all over the country to take a ride on the GAP.  Their first step almost always starts with coming Downtown to our shop at 600 First Avenue .  If you drive or take the train, you’re just an easy walk across town.  For all our riders flying into Pittsburgh though, here are some options to get from Pittsburgh International Airport to Downtown Pittsburgh.

• The Pittsburgh Port Authority operates the 28x Airport Flyer for service between Downtown and the Airport.  When you step off the flyer in Downtown, make your way up to Grant Street and head south towards the Monongahela River.  Continue on Grant and make a left heading east on First Avenue.  The ride can take 45 minutes in traffic.  The cost is $3.75.
• Bill’s Taxi can arrange to pick you up from the Airport and drive you directly to our shop.  We recommend giving Bill’s a day’s notice.  This shuttle runs about $50.  Give them a buzz at 412-855-4484.
• Take an Uber !  Rides from the Airport to our Shop run about $35.
• The Pittsburgh Transportation Group runs both Taxis and Airport Shuttles.  Find out more about these services, or book a ride, by visiting their website .

Whether you pick up a taxi, Uber, or even hitchhike to our shop, let your driver know that you’ll be dropped off at the First Avenue ‘T’ station, right beside the First Avenue Parking Garage.

Our physical address is:

600 FIrst Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Our latitude/longitude coordinates are :

40.4355121°, -079.9980603°

Check out our Location and Directions page for more info on getting to us.

When you reach First Avenue, be aware that we are not directly on the street.  We are located directly on the Great Allegheny Passage trail, which is located directly behind the parking garage and under the T-Station.  There along First Avenue in this area to directly you toward us.

Where should I stay in Pittsburgh?

Golden Triangle Bike is conveniently located directly on The Great Allegheny Passage in Downtown Pittsburgh.  There are many awesome places to stay within walking distance or a short ride via hotel shuttle, taxi, uber or public transit.  Here are a few great options:

Downtown Double Tree – 5-10 minute walk from to our shop

Holiday Inn Express South Side – 5-10 minute walk to our shop…and you get to cross one of our iconic bridges!

Hotel Monaco  – Boutique Hotel in Downtown Pittsburgh.

Courtyard Marriot – In the heart of Pittsburghs Cultural District.

Custom Trip Packages!

Looking for something more (or less) than what our Great Allegheny passage and C&O Towpath Trip Packages  has to offer?  No problemo!  Consult with our experts to customize a trip package and custom itinerary that fits your needs of you and your riding partner(s)..   Accommodations, bike rentals, daily luggage service, shuttles, side trips, itineraries and details are arranged to give you a custom experience that is second to none.  Let us focus on the details while you focus on the fun!

Trip Consulting Services

How many miles should I ride a day?  What are the best places to stay?  Where can I get a beer?  Get the inside scoop on how to arrange your own trip with a little help from our experts.  This awesome service option takes the guessing out of self-planning.

Here’s how it works.

You Consult with one of our “Adventure Architects”.  We create a custom itinerary for you and your crew…based on our conversations and your groups needs.  We also provide our “Preferred Trail Partner” list and a few other awesome trip planning tools….and you have everything you need to self-plan.  We take care of the big picture, you take care of the finer details.  You have an awesome adventure!

Start Your Planning Today!

CLICK ON THIS LINK AND FILL OUT THE FORM TO GET STARTED!

Give us a call at 412-600-0675 (option 2)

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Great Allegheny Passage Bike Tour

Trip Overview

The GAP Trail is on the bucket list of many cyclists for good reason. This bike tour from Maryland to Pennsylvania with spectacular views and peaceful surroundings will thrill you. The wide crushed-gravel trail follows a railroad grade the full distance, with views of the Allegheny Mountains and the Casselman, Youghiogheny and Monongahela rivers. Our route ends in downtown Pittsburgh at the famous “three rivers” confluence of the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio Rivers. We start with a shuttle to Cumberland, MD, with stop for a tour and lunch at Fallingwater, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous buildings. After lunch you take a shakeout ride up to the Eastern Continental Divide. The first three days are deep in the Allegheny Mountains, highlighted by the beautiful Ohiopyle State Park. We’ll also visit the Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville, PA. In addition to the opportunity to ride all 150 miles of the GAP Trail, we’ll do a ride on the C&O Canal Trail on the first day out of Cumberland, MD. Our final day will allow you to see the transition from rural Pennsylvania through the evolving river corridors of Pittsburgh with a triumphant finish at the revitalized downtown area with its famous sports stadiums. To fully experience the splendor of the entire length of this historic railroad route, we stay in comfortable, but casual inns — some of which are a departure from our customary sumptuous accommodations. You’ll enjoy delicious meals, gorgeous scenery and outdoor camaraderie in these lovely locations. Surfaces for this tour: 16% Paved and 84% Gravel.

From start to finish, check out the route.

Dates & pricing, prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. a deposit of $500 holds your reservation for most tours. for weekend tours, the deposit is $300., what’s included.

5 nights' lodging, 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Free transfer from Pittsburgh at 8 a.m. on the first day of your tour and return to Pittsburgh by 4 p.m. on the last day of your tour. We also include detailed maps and itineraries, experienced guides, full van support — plus use of a bike and helmet. Airfare is not included.

Where you stay along the way.

Guests say …

Quotes from guests about this tour:, images from this tour. click each to see it larger., follow us on instagram.

Mailing Address: PO Box 700, Woodstock, VT 05091 Address: 2520 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock, VT 05091 (800) 257-2226 | [email protected]

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Home » Cycling Tours » Gravel Bike Tours » Great Allegheny Passage/C&O Canal Gravel Tour

• Great Allegheny Passage/C&O Canal Gravel Tour

Please click here to jump to the Overview section with all tour details including pricing.

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Highlights

Lizard Head Cycling Guides Great Allegheny Passage/C&O Canal Gravel Tour rides along two of the best back-to-back gravel trails in the United States. Both of these magnificent trails are steeped in history with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (C&O Canal) trail offering a more “back in time” experience. Operated from 1831 until 1924 along the Potomac River from Washington, DC to Cumberland, Maryland, the 185 mile long C&O Canal’s principle cargo was to bring coal from the Allegheny Mountains down to the growing metropolises of Washington, Baltimore and other cities along the eastern coast. Today the old tow path has been converted to a multi-use trail perfect for an off road gravel tour.

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a more recent addition to the growing number of US rails-to-trails and it offers a world-class 150 mile gravel trail second to none in terms of quality and experience. The first sections of the GAP were opened in 1986 and the final section of the GAP was completed in 2013 making possible a 335 mile off-road car-free route between Pittsburgh, PA and Washington, DC.

The start of the Great Allegheny Passage in Pittsburgh

Along the GAP below Connellsville, PA

One of the many old locks along the C&O Canal

Washington, DC is the destination

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Testimonials

Read what previous guests on our GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour have been saying…

Rick was a phenomenal guide every step of the way, positive attitude all the time, very organized and was always there to answer questions. Route was terrific, accommodation was just fine (all we needed in other words), and we lucked out with the weather. Great memories now banked and filed away! – Jeff

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Dates

Potential tour dates are listed below and not all tour dates will run. Lock in your preferred tour date early as unopened tour dates will be closed. Please see the Spring/Autumn Tour Calendar and the Summer Tour Calendar for confirmed departures. Any unopened date can be a Custom Week (9 riders required). Please contact us via email or call 970.728.5891

To easily register for a particular tour, please click the Book Now! link after the tour date listed below. This will select the tour name and the appropriate date on the registration form.

2024 Tour Dates

• September 30 to October 4, 2024 Monday to Friday ( Book Now! )
• October 6 to 10, 2024 Sunday to Thursday ( Book Now! )
• October 12 to 16, 2024 Saturday to Wednesday ( Book Now! )

Tour Status Notes: NO STATUS = Date Set, no riders have signed up. TOUR OPENED = Tour Opened, rider minimums not met. TOUR A GO! = Tour is Go, rider minimums met. SOLD OUT = Tour Full, rider maximums met.

Why Should you Sign-Up Now and OPEN a Tour Date? This is the proverbial chicken and the egg conundrum! We need our cyclists to first commit to the date that works for them so that we can commit to that date.

For starters, when you OPEN a date you get to pick your preferred departure date, and there is no penalty if the tour does not run. Once you pick your tour date, Lizard Head closes nearby dates and funnels all additional riders to your chosen date until the tour meets its 6 rider minimum.

BONUS: As an added bonus, we can also hold a spot for you on another tour date of your choosing. There is no fee to switch to another tour date.

In conclusion, if you want a tour to run, we need you to sign up and not wait for others to do the same! Waiting for others may mean that a tour date takes longer or does not confirm. Just Do It! Once a few riders jump into the proverbial waters, others will follow!

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Overview

Starting Town: Pittsburgh, PA. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Ending Town: Washington, DC. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Tour Length: 5-Days Cycling/4-Nights Lodging

Total Miles: 335 miles (GAP = 150 miles, C&O Canal = 185 miles)

Mileage Range: 60 to 78 miles

Tour Cost: $1,950 per person with shared accommodations. Add $385 per person to this Tour Cost for a private room each night of the tour (4-Nights).

Tour Discounts: Please see our Reptile Rewards & Tour Discounts page to learn more about Reptile Rewards, Tour Discounts, and Group Discounts. Tour discounts are not stackable with any other discounts or promotions – only the highest valued discount is provided. Please note that for discounts to apply the tour minimum must be met.

Optional Post-Tour Shuttle: +$95 per person. An optional shuttle from the Washington, DC area to Pittsburgh is available for you, your bike, and your gear to get back to the tour start meeting hotel (reservations on-your-own) in Pittsburgh, PA. If you do not choose this option, you are on-your-own to make your own travel arrangements from the ending hotel.

Tour Includes: Semi-supported tour with 4-Nights lodging, daily cue sheets, daily luggage transfers, some meals (2 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner), and permit fees. Alcoholic beverages not included. NOTE: Semi-supported is when a guide does not ride with the guests and can only offer support at the start of the ride, at the lunch stops, or at the end of the ride.

Bike Recommendations: Road bikes are NOT recommended. This tour is best enjoyed on a cross bike with 32-38 mm gravel ready tires or on a 26″/27.5″/29″ mountain/gravel bike with 1.75-2.00″ moderate knobby tires as large/wide knobby tires will actually make the journey more challenging. A gravel/adventure/bikepacking bike or a 27.5″ or 29″ plus bike would also be ideal. Also be prepared for potential wet and muddy conditions along the C&O Canal. Please call 970.728.5891 or email us if you have any questions on the recommended bike and equipment to bring on this tour.

Mandatory Equipment: Due to several long dark tunnels en route, powerful front lights are required on this tour. Taillights are optional, but highly recommended. On four of the days riders will carry a pack lunch, thus a frame bag, a large rear bag, a handlebar bag, or a Camelbak-like pack is recommended. There are also sections of the route with little to no water, so make sure to carry plenty of extra water be it via extra water bottles, a Camelbak, or even water pouches carried in a frame pack.

Gravel Bike Rentals

NOTE: The make, model, and specifications of rental bikes may differ from what is described below. Please contact us if you have any specific needs for a rental bike or have any questions about rental bikes.

Lizard Head Cycling Guides is proud to rent the Scott 2023 Addict 30 which is light, can handle rough terrain, fits chunky tires and has enough mounts to carry all the liquids and freeze-dried chicken curry you want. What's really important, though is what this bike allows you to do. Now, perhaps more than ever, the Addict Gravel 30 is your ticket to adventure when you need it most.

The Addict 30 features: Addict Gravel Disc HMF Carbon Gravel geometry, Shimano GRX 22 speed drivetrain, Shimano BR-RX400 hydraulic disc brakes, Schwalbe G-ONE Bite Performance 700x45C tires. Approx. Weight: 20.3 / 9.2 kg (without pedals)

☛ Learn more about our Rental Bikes and Equipment

If you have any further questions, please read more on our Rental Bikes FAQ page. You can also email us at [email protected] or call us at 970.728.5891

Overall Route Map

☛ MUST READ: Training for Your First MTB Tour: 5 Best Tips to Improve Your Pedaling Technique

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Itinerary*

*PLEASE NOTE: Tour itineraries are subject to change and modification based on the group, available accommodations, road construction, road closures, and other unforeseen circumstances including weather, wildfires, flooding, hurricanes, landslides and/or other acts of nature. Also, the distances and elevation profiles shown below may not reflect the actual distances and elevations while on tour as these are provided here to give an idea as to the anticipated mileage and terrain. Please view this itinerary, the distances, and elevation profiles as a general outline as to what to expect while on this tour.

Day 0: Arrival in Pittsburgh, PA

On Day 0 (the day before the tour starts), guests either fly into Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) and shuttle to the designated meeting hotel (Uber or Lyft ), or drive to the designated meeting hotel. Guests are on-their-own for accommodations this evening either at the designated meeting hotel, or at other nearby hotels. Guests are on-their-own for dinner this evening and there are many restaurants within walking distance from the hotel.

Day 1: Pittsburgh, PA to Ohiopyle, PA 78 miles +2155 ft / -1650 ft

After an early morning breakfast at the meeting hotel, we meet at 7:30 A.M. to discuss the route and logistics for our first day of riding. After gear is loaded into the support van, we then ride a short distance to Point State Park to officially start the tour at the beginning of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). Point State Park is where two great rivers – the Allegheny and the Monongahela – meet to form the mighty Ohio River. From here we embark on our 5-day journey by riding on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail which soon meets up with the Great Allegheny Passage.

Continuing southeast along the GAP we slowly shed the urban setting and paved sections of the trail to hit the gravel and enjoy the ever increasing remoteness. On this first day our support team will meet up with the riders at a designated point for lunch (Note: on subsequent days lunches are packed prior to morning departures). After making our way past Connellsville, Pennsylvania, we encounter the stunning beauty of ancient growth trees and immense ravines as we enter Ohiopyle State Park . The ride ends in the small town of Ohiopyle with a check into our accommodations. Guests are on their own this evening for dinner at one of the many establishments in Ohiopyle.

Start of the GAP at Point State Park in Pittsburgh

Entering Ohiopyle State Park along the GAP

Day 1 Elevation Profile

Day 2: Ohiopyle, PA to Cumberland, MD 72 miles +2710 ft / -3320 ft

Back on the trail we again experience the magnificent old growth forests while also enjoying the smooth limestone surface of the GAP. Today’s ride on the GAP is through some of the most remote areas along the trail and it offers notable landmarks such as the Salisbury Viaduct (nearly 2,000′ feet long and 100′ above the Casselman River Valley), the Pinkerton Tunnel, the Eastern Continental Divide and finally passage through the 3,300′ long Big Savage Tunnel which rewards with a fantastic view of the Allegheny Mountains immediately after exiting the eastern terminus.

From top of Savage Mountain it’s then a 23 mile fast and cruisy descent to the small town of Cumberland, Maryland where the GAP trail ends and tomorrow the C&O Canal trail begins. After rolling into town we’ll check into to our accommodations for the night and head out for a well deserved dinner in downtown Cumberland.

Salisbury Trestle along the GAP

Entering the Big Savage Tunnel

Day 2 Elevation Profile

Day 3: Cumberland, MD to Hancock, MD 60 miles +675 ft / -875 ft

Departing from Cumberland, today will be a transition day as we join the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath Trail (aka: C&O Canal) for the remainder of our journey. The two trails are quite different and the smooth gravel surface of the GAP is replaced by the more rugged dual-track of the C&O Canal Towpath Trail which can become challenging in wet conditions. After leaving Cumberland behind we soon find ourselves in very remote country with zero cell reception – perfect for that digital detox!

Midway through the day we encounter the Paw Paw Tunnel , 3,200′ of utter darkness with a narrow trail along with the canal – a headlight is mandatory for safe passage through the tunnel. After the Paw Paw Tunnel we continue our meandering ride along the C&O Canal eventually reaching our goal of Hancock, Maryland. Guests are on their own for dinner this evening in Hancock, but we highly recommend Buddylou’s Eats Drinks & Antiques !

The end of the GAP and the start of the C&O in Cumberland, MD

Exiting the Paw Paw Tunnel (see that itty bitty light at the far end?)

Day 3 Elevation Profile

Day 4: Hancock, MD to Harpers Ferry, WV 64 miles +640 ft / -785 ft

Departing Hancock, today’s route to Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia offers a continued ride through history passing many old locks and lock tender houses. Soon after Hancock there is an opportunity to visit Fort Frederick , a star fort that was active in the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. We recommend a stop at Williamsport, Maryland to admire the large turn basin and if there is time, perhaps take a short ride on the recently restored canal boat.

From Williamsport, the route continues south and riders soon encounter the “ Big Slackwater ” area of the C&O Canal where the trail is carved into the high cliff sides and augmented by concrete ramps and wooden bridges extending into the Potomac River. At the end of the day we reach our destination of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia for lodging and enjoy a relaxed post-ride dinner in one of the many historic downtown restaurants.

Big Slackwater along the C&O Canal

The beauty of the C&O Canal

Day 4 Elevation Profile

Day 5: Harpers Ferry, WV to Washington, DC 61 miles +490 ft / -765 ft

It’s the final day of our gravel adventure and our final push back to civilization. Departing Harper’s Ferry we rejoin the C&O Canal enjoying the slow, gradual descent to our destination of Washington, DC. We again pass more historic lock tender houses where some of them have been restored and are available to rent year round. Nearing Washington we encounter Great Falls which presents some of the most rugged waters along the Potomac River and which has become a destination for white water kayakers and other adventure seekers.

We finally make it to the outskirts of our nation’s capital by first passing through Georgetown and eventually finding the elusive “Mile 0” marker for the C&O Canal near the infamous Watergate Hotel in Washington, DC.

You have just completed 335 gravel miles in 5 days… job well done!

Overlook at Great Falls

The elusive “Mile 0” for the C&O Canal at Watergate in Washington, D.C

Day 5 Elevation Profile

GAP/C&O Canal Gravel Tour: Logistics & FAQs

Bike shipping.

Lizard Head Cycling recommends shipping with BikeFlights.com . Bikes can be shipped either to our partner bike shop in each meeting town for professional assembly or directly to the meeting hotel for self-assembly. Bike boxes can generally be left at the meeting hotel during the tour. Bikes shipped across the continental US should be shipped 8 days prior to your tour.

General Tour & Cancellation Policies

Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with all of our tour and cancellation policies, which can be found by clicking here .

Travel Insurance

If you have not already, now would be a great time to consider adding travel insurance to your tour. You are welcome to use any travel insurance company you would like. We recommend Generali/Trip Mate.

Generally, if contracting COVID causes clients to cancel or interrupt their tour, trip insurance companies would treat it as any other illness as long as it is contracted after the insurance was purchased. Please check your individual plan documentation for details. Please note that quarantine is usually only covered if clients are actually sick with COVID. If a state requires quarantine upon arrival because of standardized state law, coverage is generally not covered. Again, check your individual plan documentation for details.

American Guests - use this link: http://www.generalitravelinsurance.com/get-a-quote.html?partner=LIZA0855

• The Premium Plan is the only plan which offers Pre-Existing coverage so long as the plan is purchased prior to Final Payment.
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• Customer Service can be reached at 1-800-874-2442 for coverage questions and policy modifications or to purchase by phone. Agency Code: LIZA0855

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• Sign Up for a Tour Here! Spring/Autumn Tour Calendar Summer Tour Calendar

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• Aspen to Santa Fe Bike Tour
• Boulder, Bryce, & Zion
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• Bridges and Battlegrounds Mixed Terrain Tour
• Crested Butte to Telluride Gravel Ebike Tour
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• Hayduke Trail
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• Joshua Tree Road & Gravel
• Monument Valley of the Gods Road & Gravel Tour
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• Hayduke North: Castles & Goblins MTB Tour
• Abajo Mountains to Moab MTB Tour
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F1 News: Valtteri Bottas' Stunning Summer Adventures in the Finnish Wilds

V altteri Bottas is soaking up the summer break by exploring the pristine wilderness of Finland, as seen in his latest Instagram posts. His feed features stunning shots of his cycling adventures and relaxing moments, showcasing the picturesque scenery of Northern Finland.

From exhilarating gravel bike rides to tranquil times spent with his partner, Tiffany Cromwell, in a secluded jacuzzi, Bottas is striking a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. This downtime is expected to recharge him ahead of his return to Formula 1.

Tiffany Cromwell , a professional cyclist with Canyon–SRAM, shares Bottas' enthusiasm for cycling. Hailing from Stirling, South Australia, she switched from basketball to cycling after being discovered through a talent program. At 35, her dedication mirrors Bottas' own passion for the sport.

Related: F1 News: Horner Highlights Red Bull’s RB20 Struggles as McLaren Closes the Gap

Facing a tough F1 season with frequent non-points finishes and the transition to an Audi Works team in 2026, Bottas is in a precarious position. With his contract expiring at the end of the season and only a few seats available for 2025, Bottas needs to improve his performance. His Finnish retreat may provide the refreshment and perspective needed to overcome these hurdles.

Million Euro contracts, expansive budgets and trickle-down economics - the Tour de France Femmes effect

As we approach the 2024 Tour de France Femmes, Cyclingnews takes an in-depth look at the impact on women's cycling

In the last few years, women’s cycling has been through waves of dramatic and wide-reaching change. Go back to 2019, and you’ll find a situation that was very different to today: no real Tour de France for women, no Paris-Roubaix, no WorldTour team status, no minimum wage for women, and no huge contracts. Fast forward to today, and the women’s peloton has all those things and more, with the trajectory only heading upwards.

Part of this is down to global trends in women’s sports - viewership is growing exponentially, commercial value is up across the board - but much of it is down to some specific changes in women’s cycling. In 2022, Tour de France organisers ASO put on the first Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift , the first multi-day Tour de France race for women in decades, and the change stemming from just this one race has been impossible to ignore. 

By all accounts, the financial standing of the sport has skyrocketed in the last few years, with sponsors investing more money, team budgets growing, and riders earning more than ever. More money is coming into the sport, and more is being spent within it, as increased professionalism means higher costs for teams and race organisers. 

The headline figures all seem positive, but just how significant has the impact of the Tour been? What else has changed since 2022? Are there any negatives hidden behind the positives? 

It’s a complex and wide-ranging topic in the sport, but the one recurring theme for all stakeholders - teams, races, sponsors, riders - is always visibility. 

“The impact for all the teams that participate in the Tour de France is really important,” FDJ-SUEZ team manager Stephen Delcourt told us. “For me, close to 60 per cent of my visibility revenue is during the Tour de France - it could be 50 one year, 70 another depending on the results - but that is the impact.”

For riders, the stature of the Tour offered new opportunities, new ambitions. According to her partner and manager Jan de Voogd, defending champion Demi Vollering ’s Tour goals began to form when they saw how impactful its precursor, La Course, was. 

“Demi came third [in La Course 2020] and she was on the podium with Lizzie Deignan and Marianne Vos. And we were like ‘hey, this is cool, you see the Tour de France logo’, and then immediately Demi dreamt of the Tour,” De Voogd explained. 

“Then the year after in 2021 for SD Worx, she won it. And that was the first time we thought ‘okay, this is big’ because if you win something to do with the Tour de France, that’s the thing everyone in the world knows. A lot of people don’t know much about cycling, and certainly not about women’s cycling, but everyone knows the Tour de France.”

The next year, the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift came, and things began to change, with more eyes on women’s cycling than ever before. 

“The broadcast perspective was why it was so important that the Tour de France Femmes came back,” De Voogd added. “It should be broadcast, there should be live coverage, and if it is to be seen by more people, then the brands and the money will follow, not the other way around.”

Bigger teams, bigger budgets

 By all accounts, a lot of brands and a lot of money has followed since the news of the relaunch of the Tour de France Femmes. In FDJ-SUEZ’s case, the numbers speak for themselves. In 2014, they had a budget of just under €400,000, Delcourt told us. In 2020, the year the first women’s Paris-Roubaix was planned, that was €1.2 million, and in 2024 it’s €3.8 million. The growth in ten years has been huge, and Delcourt believes “100%” that the team would not be where it is if not for the Tour de France Femmes. 

“Ten or 15 years ago, it was impossible to think about where we are now,” he said. “At the beginning of the team and for the first ten years, it was only volunteers on the team working around the riders. We talked about professional teams, but that was only in name, because the riders were not professional. But step by step we invested more, we looked for more budget, and now FDJ-SUEZ has more than 40 full-time employees, staff and riders, we have more than 120 sponsors.”

Though we don’t know all the specifics for every team, it appears that the trend is similar across the board. Teams are constantly gaining new sponsors, team closures have been rare, and rosters are steadily growing. In 2020, the average size of a WorldTour team was 13.7 riders, this year, it’s 16.3. Teams are also spending more on altitude camps, equipment, media teams, the list goes on. 

Things were changing before the Tour, but the launch of that race, and the accompanying broadcast deals, social media campaigns and general visibility has skyrocketed things. 

“Now the speed is really, really fast,” Delcourt said. 

The only question is if everything is moving at the same velocity. Most teams appear to be riding the wave well, but there are concerns. Rider salaries are one: riders and agents know that teams have bigger budgets, and know they are racing more professionally, so some are asking for more compensation, but it’s a tricky balance of budgets for team managers. 

“It's a human reaction to always want more. Everybody wants more. We invest a lot in altitude camps, nutrition, material testing, et cetera, which they need because they work a lot. After, for the salary, it's hard with the expectations because the market [this year] was crazy with a high number of top riders without contracts for 2025, and on the other side we need to be really vigilant about the price, because the cost of everything is crazy. And I think it can be hard to understand why the costs increase like this,” Delcourt said.

“It's easy to say 'okay, I want to increase this rider's salary or that rider's salary' because another team is offering more money or something, but we have a lot of really bad examples when teams want to follow the market without securing their revenue and without calculating and evaluating the cost of every race, and then they get to the end of the season and they're not able to finish it or continue the year after. So that is my first job, to make sure we have the budget to continue.”

Are races stepping up?

As more money is being invested into riders, teams and the big-ticket races, one area that is perhaps overlooked is the races themselves.

Thanks to their status as the biggest race organisers in cycling, plus the sponsorship they have secured for the women’s race, ASO can put a lot of money into the Tour de France Femmes. Other races, especially ones who only have a women’s race, do not have this luxury, and the difficulties are beginning to show. 

“How is it possible to accept that for the Giro and Vuelta, they pay for only five staff?” Delcourt asked. “It is impossible to accept that. When you have seven riders, two cars in the race, the minimum is two sports directors with the UCI licence, then you need two mechanics - well, now all the big teams have a bus and a big mechanics truck, so you need a minimum of three mechanics, really three sports directors minimum, and then you need other assistants. In the Giro when it was really hot, you need at least five people to help in the feed zone and with water and ice. 

“So we have a minimum of fifteen staff. In my team, it was 23, because we have the communication teams et cetera, but the organiser pays for only twelve people [riders included],” he explained.

At the Giro, this meant that FDJ spent an additional €12,000 of their own money just to be at the race. At the Tour de France, the organisers will pay for nine staff members, and an extra  €5,000. There’s still a gap that the team have to cover, but it’s a very different proposition.

As well as making it more difficult for teams to get the most out of smaller races, this one example shows how different parts of the sport are not growing at the same rate. Teams are bigger and more professional and asking for more, and the races can’t yet match that. 

It’s clear already that races are struggling to keep up in the post-Tour de France Femmes world. Though now revived, the Women’s Tour was the first victim, a long-standing women’s race that nearly disappeared after its organisers folded, but was saved by British Cycling. Ronde van Drenthe, another long-running event, will not be returning in 2025, as the calendar becomes weighted towards races with men’s equivalents. 

For women’s cycling to really progress and professionalise, one could argue that a culling of the races that can’t meet the new standards is needed. And this might be right, but it’s proof that the Tour de France effect is not a universal positive for all, only those that can keep up with the rapidly rising expectations.

The million Euro question

If the Tour de France Femmes was a watershed moment for women’s cycling, the sport had another earlier this year when rumours started to swirl that Tour de France winner Demi Vollering had been offered a €1 million contract from UAE Team ADQ at the end of 2023. 

Now, it’s important to note that the veracity of this rumour has never been confirmed by any of the parties involved, and Stephen Delcourt - the boss of the team who is heavily linked with Vollering for 2025 - said at the time, and maintains now, that no team could feasibly afford such a salary.

So it may have been just that, a rumour, even a negotiating tool. But the fact that it felt believable, and could well have been a possibility at some point, speaks volumes to where women’s cycling is right now. The idea of a Tour de France winner earning seven figures seems within reach, and not outlandish, as it may have been a few years ago.

The big question is: how did we get to this point, where a million euros for Vollering felt plausible? Why is it the Dutchwoman who is likely to be the highest-paid rider in the peloton? Why her instead of world champion Lotte Kopecky , or probable greatest of all time Marianne Vos ? The obvious answer is that Vollering has won the Tour once, and is the favourite to do it again in 2024, so she is at the centre of all the heightened visibility and commercial value that the Tour brings.

However, according to De Voogd, there’s another thing that has helped Vollering to get where she is: her image and her brand. Conversely, that never meant harnessing sponsorship wherever possible, but being careful, considered and not driven by money.

“After Demi’s early successes, we immediately started to get attention from brands, just small ones, but we always had a strategy or a vision that we wouldn’t do that, because it distracts from her business, and her business is to be the best in the world. For Demi it was like ‘I want to become the best rider in the world and be myself. I'm authentic, and I am being me. I will not be an influencer, recommending different products. And that was authentic, I think, special and at the same time so normal. Big brands recognise this and look for these authentic characters with their strong, engaged following.”

This image, as authentic as it may be, is definitely curated. On Vollering’s Instagram, where she has 244,000 followers, you’ll see a carefully chosen selection of moments. Yoga, hiking with her dog, camping, her personal hashtag at the bottom of most captions. What she posts feels deliberate, and it is. She has taken the visibility that comes with winning the Tour and grown it into an even bigger personal brand.

“People started to like it and started to follow her,” De Voogd added. “So we saw that she got more attention and more following. But you have to do it, you have to post. I know a lot of women - and men, but it’s maybe less important for them because they have a big audience and broadcasting - but I know a lot of women who are doing amazing, interesting stuff, but they don’t post it. I don’t think social media should be your life, but it is a tool you should use to get that wider audience and attention, and most importantly to tell your story. 

The news that really cemented Vollering’s status as not just an athlete but as a star and sporting personality was her announcement as a Nike athlete earlier this year. This is something she and De Voogd had dreamt of for a long time, turning down other possibilities to hold out for Nike. They played the long game and ended up securing one of the most important sponsorship deals in recent years – a real first for women’s cycling, and a symbol of just how much the sport’s standing has changed.

Trickle down economics or a widening gap?

While big salaries, expanded budgets and high-profile races are something to be celebrated, it’s also patently clear that at the moment, the biggest financial gains are limited to just a few riders, races and teams.

Commercial interest from brands and sponsors is growing, but it remains about commercial value - so exposure and profit. Brands want to invest their money in the teams and races that will give the most return. That means big races, well-known names, and successful teams. Whilst some companies have been incredibly generous with their support of women’s cycling, even when it was not where it is now, sports sponsorship is not a charitable pursuit, and most companies will follow where the profit or benefit is - which is the top of the pyramid.

While the WorldTour teams seem more stable than ever, Continental outfits are still scrambling from year to year, relying on little money and unpredictable race invites. Lifeplus-Wahoo, for example, lost their Trek sponsorship when the brand moved over to launch the Trek-Segafredo team, and this year missed out on Tour selection, which they told Cycling Weekly immediately meant hard conversations with sponsors. 

In some ways, the poor visibility of women’s cycling a decade ago was a leveller. So little racing was broadcast, it meant everyone was on a similar playing field in terms of visibility. Now, if you’re a team doing a program of largely non-televised, non-WorldTour races, it’s hard to see how you could attract interest from a brand that could invest elsewhere, and see their logo broadcast to the world during the Tour de France Femmes.

A brand like Canyon, for example, funnels a lot of money into women’s cycling, supporting three WorldTour teams, the most of any bike brand. “We are striving for a balance in our investments in male and female pro sports,” the brand’s VP Corporate Communications, Tina Hunstein-Glasl, said. But, that is focused at the top.

“We focus on highly competitive teams and athletes, which also includes encouraging new talents and upcoming stars,” Hunstein-Glasl said. “For example with CANYON-SRAM Generation and the Fenix-Deceuninck Development team we are able to support a diverse group of highly ambitious women who are willing to invest in their future and the future of cycling by breaking new grounds, hopefully developing into talents for future female WorldTour teams.”

There is an argument to be made that money coming into the sport at any level can be good for the whole pyramid, directly or not.

“People will say ‘it’s so unfair for the bottom’ but I don’t think so,” De Voogd said. “If there is more at the top, more will also go to the bottom. A Nike deal for women’s cycling is great, because it will get more attention, a bigger audience, and it will only lift athletes higher. I think a lot of women in the peloton know that, and they think ‘yeah, this is great for us’ and they only will lift up their game’.”

When whispers of a possible €1 million contract first emerged, it was met in certain corners with almost criticism, as some argued that if there’s money like that in the sport, it should be shared around more equally - why should so many struggle whilst wealth accrues at the top? 

The idea of one rider earning such a figure whilst others are paid so little does bristle, but it’s an inequality and disparity we see in men’s sport, with much less consternation. 

“I would say it was like sexism in a way,” De Voogd said of the negative discussion around a possible million-euro contract. “Pogačar could renegotiate his contract and it could come out that he was making, say, €20 million a year, I don’t know, but he’s certainly worth it, and compared to other sports, you could say he’s still not earning enough. But then they are surprised that a woman could make a million in a year. Why should that ever be a problem?”

The reality for the bottom of the pyramid

In theory, De Voogd’s question is fair, and the assertion that it should help everyone is accurate. Rumours of million-euro salaries make the sport look serious, professional and valuable, which it is, and that should benefit the sport as a whole. The problem is, the materialisation of that can be slow. Trickle-down economics can work, but those at the bottom can find themselves waiting a long time for the trickle to reach them.

While sponsors, races and teams like to shout about the big and promising numbers, organisations like The Cyclists’ Alliance are doing the hard work to uncover the less shiny truths. In 2023, their annual survey revealed some concerning numbers.

WorldTour riders received a mandated minimum salary in 2023, but at Continental level, the financial situation is concerning. Forty per cent of riders in Continental teams received no salary at all at the time of the survey, and most of those that did received less than €10,000 a year, in the season when the WorldTour minimum wage grew to over €30,000. The number of riders receiving no salary was up on the 2022 figures, at a time when things are meant to be getting better, not worse. In the TCA’s own words: “The disparities between riders in the World Tour and riders outside the World Tour continue to grow wider.” The benefits are not yet trickling down the pyramid. 

Since the introduction of WorldTour level, the launch of the Tour de France Femmes, and the rumours of huge deals and salaries, we’ve been told that this will all benefit the sport as a whole. In 2022, the Tour did change everything, and many teams and riders have felt a huge boost, while those outside of the upper echelon have been promised better is coming.

It may be on its way, but in 2024, the bottom rung of women’s cycling is still very much waiting for that supposed benefit to arrive. 

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Matilda Price is a freelance cycling journalist and digital producer based in the UK. She is a graduate of modern languages, and recently completed an MA in sports journalism, during which she wrote her dissertation on the lives of young cyclists. Matilda began covering cycling in 2016 whilst still at university, working mainly in the British domestic scene at first. Since then, she has covered everything from the Tour Series to the Tour de France. These days, Matilda focuses most of her attention on the women’s sport, writing for Cyclingnews and working on women’s cycling show The Bunnyhop . As well as the Women’s WorldTour, Matilda loves following cyclo-cross and is a recent convert to downhill mountain biking.

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What to Bring on a Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Self-Supported Bike Tour

Your proven packing list for self-supported gap bicycle touring.

What to bring on your GAP trail tour is really important! If you’re planning to ride the Great Allegheny Passage, self supported, from end to end, you’ll want to pack smart and light. Hauling along too much stuff can make for a tiring ride! We have put together this tried and true, proven packing list the covers what to bring for clothing, gear and bike equipment, and what campgrounds are available along the GAP Great Allegheny Passage trail. The GAP rail-trail goes from Cumberland, MD to Pittsburgh, PA. 

What to Bring: Clothing  for GAP Trail Touring

• Cycling clothes
• Bike gloves
• Rain jacket (and pants, if you like)
• Thermal shirt
• Camp/hotel clothes
• Camp/hotel shoes
• Extra long-sleeved shirt

Whatever the weather, your clothing should be synthetic, merino wool or a high-performance blend! Dress in light layers so your clothes can breathe. We get a lot of rain in Pennsylvania, so keep your camp clothes are safe from the weather in a waterproof bag. You might also want to bring an extra pair of socks.

What to Bring: Personal Items for GAP Trail Touring

• Wallet (I.D., cash, credit card)
• Cell phone (limited service along the trail)
• Water bottles/hydration pack*
• Snacks/energy bars
• Trail Guide
• Toilet paper
• Headlamp/flashlight**

*There are chemical toilets at the campgrounds and GAP access areas, but limited potable water. Carry at least a quart of water more than you think you need! Take advantage of towns along the way for water and food resupply.

** A headlamp comes in handy if you ride at night (the GAP isn’t lit!), and for riding through the dark tunnels along the GAP.

What to Bring: Bike Equipment & Gear for GAP Trail Touring

• Panniers or soft-sided bikepacking bags *
• Extra waterproof stuff sacks
• Rain cover for panniers
• Extra spokes
• Handlebar pack
• Flat kit (tube, tire levers, patch kit)

Watch this handy short video about the GAP trail surface and riding conditions.

Prepare well for your tour! We recommend bike tires at least 35mm in width, not skinny road bike tires, because the GAP trail surface is hard-packed crushed cinder most of the way with some paved sections.  Rainfall will make the trail soft enough for skinny road bike tires to have to work harder to ride, whereas wider tires are more efficient and comfortable in all conditions. 

Camping Gear: if you want camp along the GAP

• Tent & tarp
• Sleeping bag
• Air mattress
• Cooking kit
• Food (ultralight backpacking meals are good!)
• Water purification
• Ziplock bags (for electronics)

There are many places on the GAP trail to camp! There are 11 campgrounds in total.

Campgrounds on the Great Allegheny Passage Trail

These campgrounds are in listed in order from Mile Marker 0 all the way north to Mile Marker 122, from Cumberland Maryland to Buena Vista, PA.  Each campground is linked to a page on the super useful RTC Regional Trail Corporation website with a list of what’s available at each campground. Happy bike touring on the GAP trail!

Cumberland YMCA (Cumberland – mile 0)

Maple Festival Campground (Meyersdale – mile 32)

Outflow Campground (Confluence – mile 62)

Kentuck Campground (Ohiopyle – mile 73)

Stewart’s Crossing (Connellsville – mile 89) *FREE

KOA at River’s Edge (Adelaide – mile 92)

Roundbottom Hiker-Biker campground (Roundbottom – mile 99) *FREE

Cedar Creek Park Hiker-Biker campground (Cedar Creek – mile 110) *FREE

Camp Buddtown (West Newton – mile 112)

Youghiogheny Canoe Outfitter (West Newton – mile 114)

Dravo’s Landing Campground (Buena Vista – mile 122) *FREE

Useful Related Great Allegheny Passage Rail-Trail Links

• Elevation profile for the entire GAP Trail, and the C & O Canal Towpath- find out the grades between towns from Pittsburgh PA to Cumberland MD and on to DC via the C&O Canal Towpath:  https://wilderness-voyageurs.com/pittsburgh-to-dc-gap-and-co-canal-ride-elevation-profile/
• Learn what the GAP trail is like to ride from Ohiopyle, PA to Confluence, PA for first time GAP riders: https://wilderness-voyageurs.com/my-experience-bicycling-the-gap-trail-from-ohiopyle-pa/

Ready to take on riding the Great Allegheny Passage Trail?  Here’s your awesome reading list all about the GAP trail:   https://wilderness-voyageurs.com/bike-touring-from-pittsburgh-to-d-c-reading-list/  

• Beyond the GAP Trail  – Read about the Fascinating History of the C&O Canal Towpath here: https://wilderness-voyageurs.com/history-co-canal-towpath/