Our day involved a little elevation gain to the highest point of the GAP and then heading down hill in what is know as the "Big Coast" of 23.5 miles into to Cumberland.

This booth was used by the train personnel.  I am not sure why it is not in the station.

This is a 910' long bridge over a road, river and another railroad.  The existing train line filed suit that the air space above their track was theirs.  This bridge is also curved which was unusual for me.  I could not see end to end.

Our day started near the summit of the GAP. I could feel the gradual incline increasing in the last miles.  From here it would be "The Big Coast" to Cumberland 23.5 miles away. The elevation here is 2392' and we descend to 640'.

This is the longest tunnel of the GAP extending 3300'.  This was built in 1911.  The other train line (B&O) followed the river and was on the other side.  This newer train line was the Western Maryland and created a shorter route. The competition lead to the B&O purchasing the Western Maryland.  The smaller line was taken out of service and this lead to the creation of this trail.

Lights are provided and riders can easily see the surface.  It is wide enough for two way traffic.  The openings are closed before the winter weather begins.  The renovation of 2002 cost $12 million and this keeps maintenance costs down.

The name comes from the tow surveyors who established the line to mark the separation from the Calvert and Penn land holdings.  With the beginning of disputes, there is a long and colorful history. Technology and knowledge were to a point in 1763 that this daunting task to determine a line through varying elevation and dense forest could begin. The line stretches 233 miles! Let me also add that various hostilities through the area also slowed down progress.

This tunnel is 900' long and it has lighting.  Because of being able to see the other in, it was more comfortable for me.

We all ride our pace and when it comes to the organized breaks we arrive at different times.  Our afternoon water break was at Frostburg.  The trail was at the base of the city and a switchback trail could be walked or ridden to reach this station.  Some stayed on the trail and I went up to the village.

The evidence of the spring rains. There also was the lush woods.

We were warned not to be in the tunnel if the train was in there too because we shared the space.  We could hear the train as left Frostburg, but our paths did not cross.  Soon after the tunnel the path became deep sand from the rain washing the hillsides.  Somehow my chain came off and it stuck in the frame,  Three of us could not loosen it. Luckily I could coast all the way to Cumberland.  There was a bike shop that had to pull my pedal and drive sprocket.  I was lucky that there was no other damage.

I remember my Dad referring to the National Road as US Hwy. 40 that came through Indianapolis.  Now it is Interstate 70 that follows that route.  The path up the C & O Canal and the river going north from here provide a good travel path to Pittsburgh.  At Pittsburgh you would follow the Ohio River down until the Mississippi River.

Because I could only coast, I finished with the sweeper.  We were staying at the hotel just off the trail and supper was soon.  A quick change and a little freshen up and off to the brewery.

Everyone had a very big appetite.  The snacks are great along the way and we had a nice lunch, but on a tour you sure burn the calories.

Before bed there are always clothes to lay out for the morning and tending to the bike. I was ready very quickly for bed.

Each day our schedule is the same.  This tour has everyone traveling together.  Our breakfast is at 7:30 and for me that means that I get up at 6:30 each morning.  Each night before I go to bed I have all my things ready to go. In the morning I have time for coffee and visiting.  I take the items for the day to breakfast and I do not need to head up the hill to our lodging. I want to save some energy for the day.

The temperatures began at 57 degrees and I decided to ride in my rain pants. I did not regret my decision.The temps moved into the upper 60s and it kept partly sunny.  The shade also keeps our trail temperature down and I am going at a leisurely pace. We covered 31.4 miles. We began at 2000' and ended at 1303'. My Strava told me I gained 182' and this is accounted for by the little ups and down of the trail.

This spans the valley over fields, highways, train tracks and a river.  It is only 8' and I did not want to cause congestion and a possible safety issue. We are a 100' above the valley and we did have a fabulous view.

Greg our expedition leader has the chairs ready for us and his daughter, Rona have lunch set out.  The town of Rockwood is close by and some head into town to get something.  We have a relaxing lunch break and refill the water bottles.  We are not pushed along to meet a tight schedule, but I know Greg is keeping track of the time.

The Ambassador asked that we add a pin to the map to show our hometown. You can see that people who have come before us are from all over.

You also see a sign for the old route which followed the river, but this tunnel was added a few years ago.  I chose the tunnel. I did not realize that there would be no overhead lighting.  I could see the other end, but the path before me was too dark to see the surface.  I kept to the center and hoped that I would not hit any  slippery spots.  When I emerged the two riders behind me thanked me for having the helmet taillight which helped guide them.

The warmth of the afternoon had me craving a pop and an ice cream sandwich.  There was a spot right off the Village Green. 

Confluence is named from the connecting of the Casselman, and Youghiogheny rivers and the Laurel Hill Creek. For a long time it was known as "Turkeyfoot". The B & O set up Confluence as a major train yard.  Thirty trains a day still pass through. I guess somewhere in the past the powers felt that Confluence was the better name. I would not want to say that I hail from Turkeyfoot ,would you?

Each afternoon we have enough time to relax and clean up for dinner at 6:00.  After dinner we have another program about the Eastern Woodlands.

Our speakers were two high school teachers who provided information about the geology, animals, plants and indigenous people. There were many other displays. The first two days have given a good basis for enjoying the trail ahead. Greg, our leader, continues to entertain us with additional facts and stories. I bet he learned a lot from Bill Metzger.

The programs are interesting, but by  8:00 p.m. we are thinking about bed and getting ready for the next day.

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is 150 mile rail trail the goes between Pittsburgh and Cumberland, Maryland.  From Cumberland the path connects to the C & O Towpath which continues to Washington, D. C.

The Trail Guide provides a great guide to help you plan and get information about the sites and history.  I am part of a group through the Road Scholar organization.  This not-for-profit provides experience of learning, discover, adventure and travel. Learn more at www.roadscholar.org 

This tour will be a different experience in two ways for me.  We will be based at the Laurelville Retreat Center. This rustic center has many comforts of home. I will not missing tent camping on this trip.

Excited to get on the tour.

I have had the REI Co-Op CTY. 2.2e for almost three years. I have enjoyed 5200 miles and look forward to many more miles ahead.  This bike has been a solid choice.

Here are the points in favor of this bike and these are in no particular order. 
1.   It is a pedal assist bike.  I must be pedaling in order to get the power assist. There is no throttle to get power and it is classified as a Level 1.  These e-bikes are almost universally allowed on all trails.  I do find some trails that prohibit e-bikes.  Please look for signs.
2. The upright position is very comfortable for riding all day.
3. The bike came with fenders.  I have enjoyed them on several of my bikes because they help keep you and the bike cleaner.
4. The kick-stand is very stable on level ground.
5.  The built on rear rack is very stable for panniers or a trunk bag.
6.  I was able to purchase a second battery.  I have used this on a very long hilly day.
7.  I was able to put on my comfy seat.
8.  The head and tail lights are ready to turn on as you want them.
9. The range of the battery is very long.  On the Eco level (least assist) I get close to 100 miles. I do not need the NORM level very often. 
10. I can do my rides and get totally exhausted.
11. The motor is mid-drive and this gives a very natural feel.  My other e-bike is a hub motor that has a pushing feel .

Here in Michigan, it seems like we go from cool spring to super hot.  Is it similar where you live?

I have been on my cycle trainer all winter looking forward to  the weather to ride outside. Here is my plan.

I am lucky to have a large park near home. The path is separate from the traffic and you feel safe as the sunsets.

Will your route have shade?  Is there a breeze that can help you stay cool?  Will you go along a body of water?  Can I stay off the pavement and avoid traffic congestion?  I tend to seek out the shaded, unpaved paths.  The woods really help to cool me down.

My bikes have room for 2 or 3 bottles. If you do not have bottle racks the bottle can go in  your backpack.  This is what I did in the top photo.  Planning your water needs before you go out is essential.  You do not want to run out and I do not want to need to sip small amounts to stretch out your  supply.  Plan where you may stop to buy liquids.

This keeps me from having to apply sun lotion.

I also take electrolyte mix and some premixed bottles.

Let people know your plan and timetable. You can check in with a friend during your ride. You may also plan a route that has "bail out" options to cut the ride short.  You know you could always get a ride.

Spring has been slower than normal this season in warming above 50°. At that temperature I might decide to go out. I had a dozen outside rides. The days start in the 20s and hours later it is in the mid 40s. Luckily we had many sunny days.

Adventures start with excitement , but there is apprehension.

I did not stop at the Prancing Pony Inn. Maybe next time.