Day 3 GAP: Confluence to Connelsville

Elevation changed 1332' to 919'. We did manage to go uphill a bit for a total of 121'.  At the start of the ride the temperature was 59 degrees and this was a day for shorts.  I was able to be comfortable in my long sleeve tee.

Youghiogheny River Lake from on top of the dam.

Terrible floods in the early 1900s resulted in the building of this dam to control the water level from snow melt and rain. Besides the added peace of mind, the lake provides a wonderful recreation area.

At the base of the dam water was released to manage the river level.

The rush of water created a massive plume of mist which drifted our way and made the air very chilly.  We quickly moved on.  Yesterday we were following the Casselman River and now we continue along the Youghiogheny River.  We gradually rose above the river level and into the shaded trail.   We could occasionally catch glimpses of the river. On the other bank was the B & O train.  There were the steady sounds of the trains. Through the morning we crossed paths with cycle tourists heading in the opposite direction. Seeing others on the trail and saying "Hi" is exciting for some reason. I wonder why.

The station at Ohiopyle State Park.

Ohiopyle means "white frothy water" or "it turns very white." This area has long attracted those wanting recreation, There are shops and we had our lunch along the river. The park had a lot of activity for a mid-week day.  

What a great lunch spot. When we get back on the trail we will cross on that bridge.

A tribute to a young George Washington.

When George was a young soldier in the British army , he was tasked with finding a route to reach Fort Pitt. During that time the French and English were fighting over these lands.

Besides the rapids there is a good sized falls.

After lunch we were quickly back in the quiet woods.

One of the daily waterfalls.

This caught my eye.

These towns have lost a lot since the steel and coal industry is not what it used to be.  Some of these facilities are getting used in new ways.

It is good to have a cold beverage waiting for you back at camp.

This was the site of our dinner tonight.

Everything was tasty.

After dinner we had a speaker share information about the museum.

This bicycle was used by Canadian and British paratroopers in the  days following the D-Day invasion. Do you see the couplings to fold the bike in half?

What a tremendous model train arrangement.

What a great way to end a wonderful day.