About the Adventure

Activity Level 4: Strenuous due to distance Location: The Pumphouse, Homestead Guides: Joe-lead, Megan-assist The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a 150 mile rail-trail that begins in Cumberland, MD (Mile 0) and ends at the Point in Pittsburgh (mile 150.) Bicycling Magazine named the GAP to its 2022 list of “dream rides” around the world, encouraging you to “glide through Pennsylvania’s sights and sounds without subjecting yourself to the state’s punchy climbs.” We are section biking the GAP in a series of 10 out-and-back rides. Join us for your favorite sections or sign up for all 10. What's the Trail Like? The GAP is a rail-trail paved with crushed limestone. There are a few asphalt sections near urban areas. Distance: How far will we ride? Each ride is an out-and-back. The round trip distances range from 21 miles to 34 miles. What kind of bike is best for this trail? Most people ride hybrid or gravel bikes. Some use mountain bikes. A road bike equipped with slightly knobby tires will also work. A road bike with slick, skinny tires is unsuitable for this trip. What equipment do I need? All participants must have their own bike (or rent one from Golden Triangle in Pittsburgh.) Helmets are mandatory. Other gear to have: • 2 spare tubes • water (hydration pack; bottle with cage) • snacks/energy food • eye protection ( sunglasses or clear safety glasses) • padded bike shorts • bike gloves • rain gear, • a bike lock • saddle (underseat) bag to keep keys, phone, etc. GAP Ride 1: Pittsburgh to McKeesport Our first ride begins in Pittsburgh at the Pumphouse near the Waterfront in Homestead. We'll head north, riding along the Heritage River Trail, for about 10 miles until we get to the Point. Then we'll turn around and cycle south. Shortly before GAP Mile Marker 145, we cross the Hot Metal Bridge and ride into South Side. We'll continue riding along the Monongahela River past Hays, where the Bald Eagles live, past Homestead, Kennywood, Duquesne, and on to McKeesport. Here, we turn around for the return ride back to the Pumphouse. Total distance is 34 miles. Elevation gain is 607 feet. Our riding speed will be about 10 miles per hour. You have the option of choosing RDD (Rider Determines Distance), which allows you to end your ride at mile 21 instead of going the full distance to mile 34. Event details, including meeting location, suggested gear, and other pertinent info, will be sent via email to registered participants.