GAP and C&O Canal
With 330 miles of trail the GAP and C&O deliver breathtaking views of the Allegheny Mountains, tranquil passages along the historic C&O Canal, and a chance to immerse yourself in the history of America's industrial growth. We'll cycle approx. 55 - 60 miles a day, enjoying the charming towns and diverse landscapes, soaring forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene meadows along the way. We'll also stay in both kitschy and historic towns adding lots of local color to the experience. We cap off the tour with a guided bike tour our the Nation's Capital, Washington DC, where we'll end our ride at the Capital Mall.
TOUR PRICING
Per Person Double Occ: $2689 -- Single Occ: $3089
A deposit of $500 per person is required at time of reservation. You will be invoiced for balance, including any discounts or adjustments, in 2 separate installments. Final balance due 60 days prior to tour.
THE ESSENTIALS
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Miles: 330 -- Avg. Daily Miles: 55 - 60 miles
Meals: Daily Breakfast; 1 Lunch; 1 Dinner
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1: Arrive Pittsburgh
Arrive Pittsburgh and do a little sightseeing. We’ll shuttle guests to lively Station Square where you can ride the famous Inclines to enjoy panoramic views of the ‘Burgh, or explore the famous 3 Rivers by taking a tour on the Gateway Clipper. Grab some dinner while at Station Square or walk across one of Pitt’s many bridges to explore the jumping downtown area which also has an abundance of sightseeing and dining options.
Day 2: Pittsburgh to Connellsville
Cycling: 57 Miles
We leave Pittsburgh behind as we head for the beautiful rural reaches of Pennsylvania, taking us through old-growth forests and following the majestic Youghiogheny river. The trail delights with charming small towns and nostalgic train depots which have been converted into visitor’s centers, cafes and gift shops. After our lunch stop in W. Newton, we continue on to cool Connellsville nestled on the bank of the beautiful Yough.
Day 3: Connellsville to Meyersdale
Cycling: 57 Miles
Today’s ride is packed with adventure! In 18 miles we reach Ohiopyle State Park where we encourage you to take time to explore, by bike and by foot, the many paths that showcase the beautiful Youghiogheny river. There is also the option to visit the famous Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater house ($35). Continuing on we stop in Confluence for a picnic lunch as we make our way to Meyersdale, but not before crossing the Salisbury Viaduct which is over 100’ high and 2,300’ long making for one exciting ride! Our overnight in Meyersdale is at the super kitschy and haunted Morguen Toole Factory, where we’ll treat you to a fun pizza social and the group can share experiences on biking and other adventures.
Day 4: Meyersdale to Cumberland
Cycling: 33 Miles
Today we hit the trail for an exciting 33 miles which will take us across the Eastern Continental Divide and the Mason Dixon Line, and through the Big Savage Tunnel. Exiting Big Savage, plan to take a long stop to enjoy the stunning views of the Allegheny Valley below you before beginning your downhill cruise to Cumberland, which is the junction of the GAP and C&O Trails, and our overnight stay.
Day 5: Cumberland to Hancock
Cycling: 60 Miles
Say good morning to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath! Along today’s route you’ll pass aqueducts, locks, and remnants of Colonial and Native American settlements before reaching the iconic Paw-Paw Tunnel, one of the most significant features on the C&O. We cycle on, passing through Greenridge State Forest and Little Orleans before finishing our day at the lovely Country Inn Berkley in Hancock, Maryland.
Day 6: Hancock to Harpers Ferry
Cycling: 65 Miles
We head out for our longest day of cycling, but not to worry, with a very favorable downhill slope you’ll just glide along with ease! In only 12 miles we reach Fort Frederick where you can explore one of the largest forts built by the English Colonists. Cycling on, you’ll pass lock after lock taking in the beautiful scenery along the Potomac as well as striking Cliffs that hang over the river at mile 17. After a trailside picnic, the trail comes within 2.5 miles of Antietam Battlefield ($20), and those interested can divert the short distance to explore the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, but which ever path you choose, we’ll all roll into famous Harpers Ferry for our overnight stay.
Day 7: Harpers Ferry to Cabin John
Cycling: 52 Miles
We leave Harpers Ferry behind as we enjoy another day of cycling, meandering with the powerful Potomac and taking in the beautiful scenery as we make our way to Great Falls, a series of waterfalls, rapids and drops, which required significant canal construction in order to become navigable. As we cycle beyond Great Falls, the countryside begins wain and gives way to the buzz of our nation’s capital, Washington D.C. We’ll spend our overnight in Arlington where we’ll take you to historic Old Town Alexandria with lively restaurants, shops and nightlife.
Day 8: Cabin John to Washington, DC
Cycling: 25 Miles
Our morning begins as we finish up the last 9 miles of the incredible C&O Canal Trail, ending at Mile Marker 0. But our adventure continues for a while longer as we take in the sites of the US Capital by bike, making visits to the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial, as well as a number of other highlights along the National Mall. After a wonderful afternoon of sightseeing we’ll shuttle guests back to IAD for travel to homebound or other destinations.