Great Allegheny Passage - GAP Confluence

Great Allegheny Passage

150-Mile Rail Trail: Pittsburgh, PA to Cumberland, MD

Great Allegheny Passage

The Great Allegheny Passage offers an idyllic long-haul adventure for bikers and hikers alike. Gear up for all 150 miles, or pick a section and bike from trail town to trail town for shorter trips. This converted trail, which once felt the heavy rumble of freight trains, now offers a gentle grade for a nearly level ride along the Youghiogheny River through the Laurel Highlands. 

The longest multi-use trail in PA, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) stretches from southeast from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. There, the Great Allegheny Passage connects with the C&O Canal towpath, extending all the way to the Georgetown district of Washington, D.C. for a total length of 334.5 miles.

The Big Savage Tunnel, located near the Mason & Dixon Line, is closed for the winter from approximately December 1 through April 1 each year.

Ohiopyle GAP Fall

 


Trail Towns: From Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland

West Newton: EAT | STAY

Great Allegheny Passage bikers

Stop by the West Newton Visitors Center, located in a train station along the trail, for information. Just across the West Newton bridge, you'll find Bloom Brew, a local craft brewery, perfect for a cold pint after a Saturday ride. Just a few miles from downtown West Newton, Cedar Creek Park is a charming stop for a summer picnic with Youghiogheny River access. 

Connellsville: EAT | STAY

Bike the Great Allegheny Passage

Connellsville was once bustling with coal and coke production and known as the "Coke Capital of the World." Learn more about the stories of those who served our country during World War II at the Connellsville Canteen just a few blocks from the trail. 

Ohiopyle: EAT | STAY

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This charming small town is located within almost 20,000 acres of Ohiopyle State Park land and along the Class I-IV whitewater on the Youghiogheny River. These great outfitters and rental experts are ready to take you on a whitewater trip down the river or  biking on the GAP. You'll also find miniature golf, the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides and more in Ohiopyle, your one stop shop for outdoor adventures. The park features several picturesque waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, and wonderful vistas overlooking the Laurel Highlands. Visit the Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitors Center, located along the water, with interactive displays, and spend some time in charming shops along Sherman Street. 

Confluence: EAT | STAY

Confluence Trail Head Great Allegheny Passage

Rent kayaks and canoes for paddling on the nearby Youghiogheny River Lake. 16 miles long and one-half mile wide, this river lake is perfect for power boating and water-skiing as well. Stroll through the charming town of Confluence, and enjoy pumpkin treats at the Confluence Pumpkinfest in October. 

Rockwood: STAY

Rockwood Mill Shoppes

Located just off the trail, stop by Trailhead Brewing to quench your thirst or visit the small town eateries along Main St. 

Meyersdale: EAT | STAY

Great Allegheny Passage, Salisbury ViaductEnjoy the view from the Salisbury Viaduct, a long bridge built in 1912 with an expansive panorama of Somerset County. Be sure to check out the restored Western Maryland Railway Station, just north of the viaduct. Don't miss the PA Maple Festival every spring. 

 

Laurel Highlands Trip Idea: Three Days in Three Counties

Explore the Laurel Highlands with this 3...

SPOTLIGHT