Cycling the C&O Towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage: An ICONIC bike tour from D.C. to Pittsburgh

In July of 2020, my dad and I drove to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where we caught an Amtrak to D.C. and began our bike tour on the historic C&O Towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage. It was HOT, but we had a fantastic time!

[@oregonswede]

This is on my list to do. Good video with music. Great tips. Thanks. I envy your dad getting to do these kind of trips with his daughter.

[@aspenswanderings]

Hey! 😄 Thanks for watching! You have to do it! It was such a fun trip!

[@stephenringlee9739]

Great and inspiring video! We did the Pittsburgh to DC trip down the Great Allegheny and C&O Trails about eight years ago. The GAP is well maintained, stone dust surface, and posed no challenges for us on two single bikes with 30mm tires. The C&O was another story. It had rained heavily the day before we descended into Cumberland. The next day, we were met by cyclists coming north from DC who all noted "don't even think about doing the C&O today... it has turned into a goat track." Sure enough, huge mud puddles and lots of slippery clay may loaded cycling impossible. We returned to Cumberland and took Amtrak south to miss the worst of the trail conditions. Even from Harper's Ferry south two days later, the trail was still a challenge. Perhaps in the intervening years NPS has laid down another two inches of fine gravel or stone dust to mitigate standing water on the trail surface. In any event, riders are advised to take wider tired gravel or mountain bikes with a minimum of 40mm tires on the C&O if weather has been wet.

[@aspenswanderings]

Wow! We got really lucky and it was very dry when we rode it, but I have definitely heard stories where it can easily turn into a mud pit! I’m really wanting to ride the whole trail (both) again this year. It’s a fantastic trail. Hoping for no rain or mud!! 😄 Thanks for watching and for commenting!!!

[@RichardTillett]

@@aspenswanderingsI am riding GAPCO with Bubba in June. Hope the weather is not wet and muddy.

[@bobakerly8292]

Just finished the two…..C and O just plain sucked…….

[@RichardTillett]

@@bobakerly8292 Why did it suck? Weather? Or condition of the path? I am going in a couple of weeks.

[@calmenda]

Thanks for sharing. I can't wait to do this ride.

[@timothywimborne1722]

As the father of a fit and active teenage daughter I love to see you tour with your dad. You’re seeing such interesting places and making great memories together. Keep it up 😊

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!! I’m very lucky to have a dad who bike tours with me! Hoping there are many trips for us in the future! Thanks for watching! :)

[@fredderf6208]

Loved the video. You made dad very happy, kudos to you!

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!!

[@user-cr3fz8lz2i]

Awesome video! Funny, we live in KY and my wife is from Pittsburgh.

[@mjs3343]

Lots of bridges and scenic views on the GAP.

[@hcaldwell4085]

Enjoyed your video. I used to ride a lot when I was a kid, but now I'm retired and have the time to really ride. Planning to head east from Pittsburgh.

[@aspenswanderings]

Yes!! You’re going to love it! I plan to ride it again this summer- heading east this time!!

[@stephenash777]

I've ridden portions of this trail but keep dreaming of doing the whole thing some day. What scares me is having to deal with inclimate weather, and mechanical breakdowns. I'm also not much of a camper. Guess I'll just live vicariously thru you! lolz

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh you should totally do it! There are so many people riding that even if you did have a mechanical, someone would offer to stop and help. It’s not good to rely on others, but 100% confident multiple people would offer to help. Plus, there’s bike shops along the way you could stop at. AND you can stay in hotels/air bnbs along the way instead of camping! I say go for it!

[@BikeBuddiesCrew]

This bike tour is now on our bucket list. Thank you for sharing this inspiring adventure! Great job!

[@aspenswanderings]

It’s definitely a fun trip! Thanks for watching!

[@bolleolympus]

9:26 Those threes have never seen sutch a beauty before!✌✌👌👌👍👍❤❤😊😊

[@mjs3343]

I rode this twice. Really epic. Every trail rider needs to do this 5 to 7 day ride on their bucket list.

[@DanWhitehead-pc7xz]

My daughter and I rode the GAP and C&O last July from Pittsburgh to DC. This brought back so many good memories!!!

[@aspenswanderings]

Too cool!!! My dad and I are actually riding it again this summer, but I’ll ride it Pittsburgh to D.C. I’m excited to ride it in the “right” direction this time….ha! Thanks for watching!

[@richardthomas4112]

I just came across this. Beautiful video and your narration and choice of music made it better! It's very nice to see love for biking being shared in the family.

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh, thank you!! I’m a music teacher, so I take my music selection very seriously! Haha! Thanks for watching!!

[@princepage632]

awesome!! i have watched this vid several times. never gets old listening to you talk. just got back from a bike trip my self!!

[@madmax2069]

This is something i would absolutely love to do

[@aspenswanderings]

Do it!!

[@madmax2069]

@@aspenswanderings I'd sure love to, I have to work myself back up to be able make such a trip, bought a bicycle a few weeks ago after not owning one for around 20 ish years, been hitting up the local bike paths since I got it. Around 99-2000 me and a few friends did ride one of the 70 ish mile long bike paths in my area, I on a 20" Schwinn stingray with banana seat (that seat is definitely not something you want to ride on for long distances), we rode to the end and back.

[@mjs3343]

I live in Pittsburgh, and visitors should really spend a few days here to explore the sites and rich history.

[@tonypaddler]

What an endearing video Aspen, your joy whilst 🚴‍♀️ cycling shone like a beacon! Cheers 👍

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for your kind words, and thanks for watching!!

[@tonypaddler]

@@aspenswanderings I'll catch up on your other videos too! 👍

[@allisonfrederickharteis7525]

I loved your positive attitude and smile the whole way, even on the up from Cumberland and in the heat. Thanks for the video! I live 5 miles from the C&O and bike it regularly and have biked the GAP twice. It was fun to relive it through your video and get excited about the upcoming summer of biking.

[@aspenswanderings]

Aw! Thank you!! I am so jealous you live so close to the C&O! We are actually planning on riding it again here in a month or so, but in reverse this time….so we will get to experience the ride into Cumberland from the opposite direction! ;-) Thanks for watching!

[@aslexon]

Love the adventures you are posting with your dad. Love the videos and shared experience.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you so much for watching!!

[@RandyB-sl4pj]

Loved the video! Just got back from driving to and from DC and saw signs for the C&O trail and the Great Allegheny Passage and looked into making this trip via bike. The fact you did this with you father was awesome! A memory I’m sure you both with cherish forever. I hope to get to do this with my daughters some day too.

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh- you have to do this with your daughters one day!! I will always cherish this trip! :) Thanks for watching!

[@brianferguson6278]

This ride is still on my buck list, there are so many great rides out there to enjoy. Thank you for giving a detailed review. Wishing you and your Dad tailwinds on your explorations.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for watching!! 💚💚

[@JeffRevell]

It's certainly a more pleasant ride in early October. We do like our heat and humidity in the Northern VA area. You're lucky that the Pawpaw tunnel was open when you went. I had to push my bike over the mountain detour because the tunnel has been closed for the past 2 years. And yes, going Pitt to DC is definitely the best direction to go. That giant downhill to Cumberland from the divide is magical. Thanks for sharing.

[@aspenswanderings]

Yeah- I think next time we will ride it in the opposite direction! We knew that Pitt to D.C. was the preferred way- Pitt was closer to drive to, but I guess we could have just rode from Pitt to DC and taken the train back to car…..not sure why we didn’t do that!! Ha! Thanks for watching!!

[@Spacejunk57]

Nice video of the trail, I always wondered what it was like. This shows a lot, Thanks.

[@aspenswanderings]

It’s a great trail!! I’m riding it again here in a few weeks and plan to do either a long video or a short series on it again!

[@bradleyerwin2049]

Thank you! Loved the video. I’m hoping to do the same trip this summer.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching! It’s a great trail. I’m planing to ride it again this summer too! Good luck!!! You will love it!

[@BGross-wt7yc]

Nicely done! Thanks for the beautiful scenery and music.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!! :)

[@michaelduy9055]

What a great adventure! Something you and your dad will always remember.

[@aspenswanderings]

For sure! Hoping to go on another ride with him next summer! Thanks for watching!!

[@clausmygind3319]

Loved this video. Great summary of the trip

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!!

[@owenkinser6626]

Loved recognizing all the spots on the trail from my ride back in 2019. Great video

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!!

[@agalletly88s]

Thanks for this post. Really enjoyed it.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!!

[@backyardrailroader]

I'm watching this video again. I am not planning to do the whole length of the trails from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, but just a few sections. There are other things I want to do outdoors during the seven planned days out there. Side note: whike hiking along the C&O Canal Trail in between Brunswick and Harpers Ferry, the is a section called the Narrows. It is to Potomac River....The Trail....The stagnant green waters of the C&O Canal....The CSX Railroad....then the mountains. A train rolled on thru eastbound whike I was in this section. Neat to see it winding thru the curves in the area above the trail and the canal.

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh, you have me wanting to ride it again! I’m actually hoping to make it out there in 2024 at some point! You just can’t beat that trail!!! The Katy Trail in Missouri is much closer for us to go ride, and about the same length….but the GAP and C and O definitely has it beat!

[@backyardrailroader]

How long did you two take to do the whole length of the ride? A friend of mine went from Pittsburgh to Washington DC in 9 days. Her and her riding companions did not camp out, though. They mapped out where all the hotels were and stayed there. I thought tge grade from Cumberland to Frostburg to the Continental Divide was only 2%. I coukd be wrong.

[@redheadryan73]

Amazing! So many beautiful shots. I really enjoy your blogs and videos. It’s not like I’m just watching someone ride a bike, but I feel like I’m actually along for the ride. Makes me want to go do it myself.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for watching!!! There are actually families who bike tour together and I think it’s adorable!!! Their kids’ bikes will have some gear strapped to them- it’s so cute!

[@LVang152]

Great video, you have such a delightful spirit towards the ride. Your Kentucky (southern) accent makes the voice over much more enjoyable. I love that your father is going on that ride with you. Keep up the great video.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you so much for your kind comments! I get a lot of comments on my voice and I love it, haha! Doing this ride with my dad made it pretty special! Thanks for watching!!

[@adventureswithsilver7486]

Thinking about YOYOing this trail to train for RAGBRAI this summer. Great video!

[@aspenswanderings]

That would be a great idea. I’ve always wanted to do RAGBRAI but I’m intimidated by the heat. It gets just as hot in KY and I’ve ridden tons of 80+ mile rides in that kind of heat…but it just kind of puts me off. I bet I’ll ride it one day though! Thanks for watching and commenting!!

[@adventureswithsilver7486]

Oh cool...I live in western Ky. I rode it for the first time last year. The heat was crazy a few days but lots of places to stop, cool off, and hydrate. You should do it!

[@LookingBackAdventures]

Congratulations to you for dealing with the July heat and humidity in that area! Great video.

[@aspenswanderings]

It’s just as bad in KY- but you never get used to it!! Ha! Thanks so much for watching!! :)

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

This was a great video Aspen. I'm literally heading out the door to drive to Mississippi to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway but I had to watch this first. I really enjoy your videos. Kudos to you and your dad ✌

[@aspenswanderings]

I’ve always wanted to ride the Natchez Trace! I hope you have the best time!!

[@jmaydelotte]

Doing that ride this summer late June to early July, then continuing from Pittsburgh to Chicago. Thanks for the preview!

[@aspenswanderings]

That sounds like an awesome trip!!! Safe travels!!! 💚

[@ottomatic7823]

I love the looks of the both of yours bikes. Clean, sturdy, comfortable, and not over packed. I want a Surly.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!! You should totally get a Surly! I love mine!!

[@ottomatic7823]

I'm in LEX🙂@@aspenswanderings

[@mikeclassing5263]

This was very neat , thanks for sharing , I just about grew up along the C&O canal as we camped just about every weekend along the Potomac river in Brunswick MD . I live in the foothills of NC now and want to ride but with all the hills its a challenge , been considering an ebike just for the pedal assist I still want to pedal but not go fast either and be able to tow my dogs pet trailer at times.

[@aspenswanderings]

What a cool area to grow up in! And I love NC! You need to get an ebike, for sure. We just rode mountain bikes in Bentonville and literally 90% of people of all ages were on ebikes. Parents towing kids up hills with them, people getting more laps (and more practice) with e-bikes. No shame in them!!

[@mikeclassing5263]

@@aspenswanderings Think I live in a bad area for biking opportunities lol , and there is so many ebikes to chose from its hard to decide on which one , I think Im getting it narrowed down though , thanks for responding and be safe .

[@irish223]

Great video ... or should I say videos as I watched your Pacific and Safety videos first. You and your dad make a great touring team. This video made me decide to do the GAP and C&O this coming Summer. I liked your comment to just get out there and ride regardless of what bike or equipment. I am in my mid 70’s and have been riding for years and people constantly ask me about which is the best bike to buy. My answer is always the same ... a bike that you can use and do use. Keep posting ... nice to have a touring video that isn’t loaded with what to bring or what to ride. Just great photography and informative narration.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for your kind comments and for watching my videos!! I will definitely have more coming. :)

[@hawbettsjourneys2235]

This was beautifully shot!!! Great job!

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you so much!!

[@PatJK910]

It looks like you both had a great time what a great journey.

[@aspenswanderings]

It was the best time!

[@APhotographerTravels2025JohnMc]

Wow what a nice movie,a father and his daughter enjoying life, I probably won’t get to enjoy this trail but I were to find my self in that part of the country I know of a trail to explore. You’ve make a informative video . .i spent my life touring America one thing I noticed is you have a helmet on your rear rack, even the experience cycles may crash your head may hit something if you crash! you feel it the rest of your life. Protecting your head at all times even the best cycles can crash! Protect your face from the sun. Most likely you’ll never do 300,000 miles as I, but just being out in the sun over time you’ll will get hot spots.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!!

[@paulbuelterman392]

This the second of your videos I’ve watched. Great company for my exercise bike!

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh, how fun! I always like watching videos when I ride my trainer! Thank you so much for watching! :)

[@USNAVDC]

Where are you in Kentucky? A buddy and I rode from Huntington, WV (right beside Ashland, KY) to Washington, D.C....over the West Virginia mountains on the highway (Rt. 50) a lot of the way after we got to almost Parkersburg, WV. From Huntington, to near Parkersburg was smooth sailing because we were right beisde the Ohio River and basically flat. I used to live in Arlington, VA, so I've done the C&O Canal from Georgetown to Harpers Ferry and back. That's an awsome ride. Also, the Greenbrier River Trail in West Virginia is great. Really nice video!

[@jfj794]

Very nice moment to cherish. Video footage was excellent as well. 😉

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!!

[@trevorpritts5817]

Awesome video. This gem is in my backyard, and I remember all theat went into getting this built. Well worth it.

[@aspenswanderings]

Wow!!! You are so lucky! And I bet it was so neat seeing the process of building the trail!

[@jamesheuer5139]

Interesting that Amtrak let you ship your bike unboxed! About 15 years ago, I took an Amtrak from Charlotte to NYC to ride in the 5 Boros ride! Amtrak wouldn’t accept my bike unless it was boxed!! Guess things have changed! Thank you! Great video!❤

[@aspenswanderings]

Well, I’m pretty sure this particular Amtrak train just makes accommodations for cyclists since it is so close to the rail trail. They had hooks that the bikes just hung on- super easy. I don’t think it’s typical that Amtrak allows this though. I know the Amtrak that you can catch for the Katy Trail does the same thing for cyclists. Pretty handy! Thanks for watching!!

[@justincapek1132]

Great video! Love the GAP and C&O. Next time you're in Pittsburgh, take some time to explore! Really fun city, very bike friendly!

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh, for sure!! Thank you for watching!!

[@prod.hellful9428]

Next time you go to DC. Go to the international spy museum. That one is my favorite. I went there yesterday.

[@aspenswanderings]

Ummmm that sounds amazing!!! I didn’t even know they had a spy museum and I’ve visited D.C. several times. How cool! Thanks for the tip!!

[@FollowThomas]

Thanks for the video of this great ride. Good to see again familiar places. I rode the GAP trail just last week. 👍

[@aspenswanderings]

I want to ride it again! Someone told me the Paw Paw tunnel had been closed for a while- is it back open?

[@FollowThomas]

@@aspenswanderings I rode the GAP trail from Pittsburgh to Cumberland didn't go any further. GAP trail tunnels were all open. I think the Paw-Paw tunnel is on a C&O trail.

[@wanderbybike]

The C&O and GAP are probably my favorite rail trail system. Fortunate to have done them a few times.

[@aspenswanderings]

Yes! The only other major rail trail that I’ve done is the Katy Trail- and the C&O and GAP are way better, in my opinion anyway. I’m hoping to get back out there and ride it again in the next year or two!

[@wanderbybike]

@@aspenswanderings Agreed. I’ve done the Katy twice, and it’s nice, but it’s not the C&O and GAP. The Katy is much more exposed ☀️and not quite as pretty of a ride.

[@joeniepro]

It's not 'like' buildings amplify the heat. They actually do. So you sensed that right :) Cool video, looks like a great time to spend with your dad

[@aspenswanderings]

Hahaha…yeah…you’re right. 🤣 Thank you for watching!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@jjhill72]

Great watch and great story telling. I live in Cumberland like 50 yards from the GAP trail, ride it all the time.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you so much! You are so lucky to live right on the trail! I’m very jealous! I’m hoping to get back out there within the next year to ride it again!

[@kendo4242]

From one music teacher to another...nice video! Very relaxing. I do mainly road cycling, but these touring vids are enticing me to branch out! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@aspenswanderings]

How cool! Sounds like we have life figured out- bikes and music! :) Thanks for watching! You should totally branch out!!

[@kendo4242]

@@aspenswanderings Yes indeed!

[@thomasstackhouse8778]

Great video production. My wife and I just did the GAP last week from Pittsburgh to Cumberland. Loved the experience.

[@aspenswanderings]

It’s SO fun! I as the entire trail open? Any detours?? I’m thinking about riding it again soon and know the Paw Paw Tunnel was closed for a while. Thanks for watching!!

[@thomasstackhouse8778]

@@aspenswanderings There was construction in Pittsburgh about 3 miles south of the starting point. We left from Hotel Indigo. Otherwise, no detours. Did you do the video production yourself, or did you have a team with you? Professional job.

[@mjs3343]

We also stayed at Yoder's in Meyersdale PA. Best place to stay.

[@migueltrujillo5932]

Another awesome ride/video

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for checking it out!!

[@migueltrujillo5932]

@@aspenswanderings a pleasure.

[@ROBBIE2787]

I will definitely be trying this soon

[@aspenswanderings]

You will love it!

[@trurenu8nelz944]

This is awesome! And I love the layout of this video. You are blesses to be able to do this with your dad. I have a love for the trail because of my dad introducing me to it and I remember our rides out there. How many days did the bike ride take?

[@aspenswanderings]

Yes- so glad we got to do this trip together. We are actually about to ride it again soon! This ride took us 6 days- we rode anywhere from 40-60 miles a day. Usually around 40 though.

[@patrickh9810]

And even the hammock matches your bike and panniers 😊

[@aspenswanderings]

Haha I never thought about that, but it totally does!! 🤓

[@kennethklosterman159]

The Wife,daughter and I are planning on doing the GAP next year. I watched your Video on your bike and what you take. You should do one on Pops bike and what he brings. We are also from Ky.. go Cats.

[@aspenswanderings]

Someone else suggested that, so I definitely will need to make that happen! And yes- a fellow Kentuckian!!

[@ReimaginedAdventures]

Love this video, great trail we went the other way last year so much fun the downhill into Cumberland was wonderful. Would like to go d.c. to pittsburgh some time.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for watching!! Next time I’ll try out Pitt to D.C.! That downhill would be amazing.

[@cryhill]

Love it , thanks for the video

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!

[@smc9108]

You got yourself a new subscriber!🙂👍I hope to have some adventures like this with my daughter once she's old enough, which will come sooner than later, y'all grow up so fast!!

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you so much! Time flies, doesn’t it?! Hoping you have many fun adventures with your daughter!!!

[@michaeljones1741]

This is so sweet ❤️

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks for watching!

[@michaeljones1741]

I’m a dad, and it would be so great to tour with my daughter. It’s great that you and your father ride/tour together. I need to get her a bike pronto!

[@alilinares900]

Bonitas imágenes. Saludos desde Caracas.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for watching!!!

[@allowatt123]

Love the big savage tunnel half mile long

[@scottleeney7717]

Thank You

[@barbaraimwold4352]

I did the GAP& C&O twice, had a great time.

[@bosanderspublictheology]

Good job!

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks!

[@MarkBrigham]

The Pittsburgh to DC ride is on my bucket list for the exact reason you stated--that ~1500 foot gradient between Frostburg & Cumberland. Question for you and others who have done this ride--if you stay at lodging along the route, do you need advanced reservations, or is it fairly easy to roll into town and find lodging?

[@aspenswanderings]

We didn’t make any reservations. We camped 3 nights and stayed in hotels/bed and breakfasts the other 3 nights. The towns are tiny, and usually aren’t all booked up, but it probably depends on the time of the year. We rode it in July. To be safe, I might book them ahead of time. We are planning to ride it again this summer, but in the reverse, so we get the 25 mile descent instead of the climb! Ha!

[@MarcoLopez-gb7ft]

Hi you see nice trails y mountain bike 🚲 never been there in Pennsylvania

[@aspenswanderings]

It’s a nice area!!

[@backyardrailroader]

Great video. I hiked on a piece of the C&O trail on three different occasions in October and December 2021. From Harpers Ferry WV to the Monocacy River Bridge. Said then I was going to get a bike. I did. End of September 2023. Took it to test it out from Deal over the Continental Divide thru Big Savage Tunnel a week later. Unfortunately, the rear tire innertube would not hold air, so my big bike ride plans on the Great Alleghany Passage Trail going from Meyersdale in both directions was canceled. I do hope to go back. There is no way I can do what you two ( and many others) have done.

[@aspenswanderings]

Darn- I hate that about your tire! I’m hoping you get to go back- it’s such a great trail! I’m hoping to go back and ride it again in the next couple of years!! Thank you for watching!!

[@backyardrailroader]

Thanks. I did get it fixed, and now testing both the bike and me out, because it has been 50 years since I rode a bike. The stories that I have of me 'relearning' to ride the bike (a few I add a little fiction to them to get a bigger laugh, like going uphill and getting passed by joggers.....lol). IF I could, I would like to try to not only ride the whole Great Alleghany Passage Trail and the C&O Canal Trail but the Delaware & Lackawanna Trail from Bristol to Wilkes-Barre PA Trail (only 185 miles) Thanks for this video

[@mratliff70]

Thanks for sharing your trip. I did the GAP in the same direction in 2017. The 25 mile hill after Cumberland, MD was the end of a 70 mile day. That was a tough day. I will be doing the ride again later this year, but in the opposite direction. Should be pretty leisurely ride this time. I'm looking for another week-long, rail-to-trail type ride for next year. I try to stay off roads and away from car traffic as much as possible. Let me know if you have any recommendations.

[@aspenswanderings]

Finally- someone else who rode it in the same direction! I can’t imagine doing that climb at the end of a long day like that! Next time I ride it, I also plan to ride it in the opposite direction. Have you looked into the Katy Trail? It’s a trail that goes across Missouri. It took us about 6 days to ride it. It’s not as scenic as the C&O and GAP, but it goes through some neat little areas. Also- check out the Mickelson Trail in South Dakota. I haven’t ridden it yet, but it’s on my list. It wouldn’t take a whole week though. You might be able to stretch it into 4 days if you do an out and back.

[@mratliff70]

@@aspenswanderings Thanks for the recommendations. I will have a look at them. BTW Do you know much about the Natchez Trace Parkway? A colleague of mine in Nashville mentioned it. Worth considering?

[@WheelersAtLarge]

Nicely done 👍We'd be more guest house than camping but those wooden shelters look pretty cool.

[@aspenswanderings]

The wooden shelter was awesome! Other than the wooden shelter and a nice little campground along the trail, the camping wasn’t anything special. I think next time I ride it, my husband and I may stay in more guest houses. Thanks for watching!!

[@WheelersAtLarge]

@@aspenswanderings Thanks for the reply. Just one more thing (I promise) We can fly into DC however nothing back out of Pittsburg for us, so the train would be our best option. Is bikes on trains straightforward on your side of the pond?

[@markswishereatsstuff2500]

Living in Baltimore, this is a bucket list ride for my friend and I. What was the total time you spent on the trails.

[@aspenswanderings]

Oh, for sure! It’s such a fantastic trail. We took a total of 6 days to ride both trails. We averaged around 45 miles a day, with a couple of days closer to 60.

[@steveoconnor7069]

As far as ghosts go, the Antietam Battlefield would probably have more than it's share.

[@aspenswanderings]

Haha you’re probably right!!!

[@steveoconnor7069]

@@aspenswanderings The sunken lane is to be sure. It just feels very sad to me.

[@TravelingThru222]

Sweet video, love that trail. Just subbed.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thanks so much! I love that trail- hoping to ride it again soon!

[@NomadZ-cc]

How many miles did you end up doing per day? Loved the positive mindset, it really helps!

[@aspenswanderings]

Our mileage was kind of random. Some days we would have around 40, other days 50-60. Thanks for watching!!

[@williamscott791]

Awesome video I'm just getting into bike traveling and bike packing what kind of bikes are you and your dad using

[@aspenswanderings]

We both have Surly Long Haul Truckers! I think they are discontinued, but you can find them used. I think Surly is still making the Disc Trucker, which is the same as our bikes, but with disc brakes. I absolutely love my Surly!

[@scottleeney7717]

Starting to train to take the Gap ride. Do you prefer or recommend a trail bike or mountain bike for a 60 year old man?

[@aspenswanderings]

I honestly think you could get away with either and be comfortable. It’s finely crushed limestone and is very smooth, so you wouldn’t really need a mountain bike with suspension, but if it’s more comfortable, then go for it!

[@andreapulido7670]

This has been on my list for a while! How long did it take you and your dad?

[@aspenswanderings]

It took about 6 days days! We usually rode around 50 miles a day, give or take. A couple of days we rode around 65 miles. It’s such a fun ride!

[@pppjourneyonabike5992]

Good video. NPS stopped treating the pump water. Take a filter. (1.75% climb out of Cumberland...seems steeper :) )

[@aspenswanderings]

Yikes about the water. Good to know. And I totally agree about that climb!!

[@tiffmercer4306]

I’ve watched a couple of your videos now and your dad was with you for both. So does he love touring, or does he just go to make you happy? I wish my dad and I could have done something like that together.

[@aspenswanderings]

He loves it! He was the one who got me started. I grew up listening to his stories of when he rode the TransAm, so then I decided to ride it with a friend a few years ago. Since then, he and I tour together! It’s really fun and pretty cool sharing a hobby like bike touring with my dad! Thanks for watching!!

[@bryanpaul410]

Great video! What camera and lens(es) were you using for the photos? They are all beautiful. I'm doing the C&O at the end of May and I'm trying to figure out what lens / lenses I want to bring.

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you!! I was using a Canon 6D Mark II with just a 50 mm lens. I couldn’t bring myself to take anything more substantial. I’m usually pretty weight conscious, but figured I could get by with it on this trip! Good luck on your ride! I can’t wait to do it again someday!

[@salmonella508]

Where did you park n Pittsburgh? Making the trip in September 2023. Going Pittsburgh to DC. Returning via Amtrak. Thx.

[@aspenswanderings]

I’m almost positive we parked at the Grant Street Transportation parking garage. It’s near the Amtrak station, so it was pretty convenient!

[@jimqpublic2]

Great video! Can you tell me what size tires you and your dad used and were they sufficient for the surfaces? Would you prefer wider or narrower? I rode and toured a lot in my 20's and 30's, but then took two decades off. Now I'm getting back into it. I was a bit apprehensive because of all the distracted drivers on the roads so am very intrigued by rail-trails and towpaths.

[@aspenswanderings]

I totally understand behind apprehensive about distracted drivers! It’s always such a relief riding on rail trails since you don’t have to worry about drivers! Our tire sizes are both 26” x 1.75”. My tires are the Continental Ride Tour tires. I just now got a new set of tires- I have at least 7,000 miles on my old pair and have only had 3 flats. I’ve never had any issues with them on rail trails- they do great. I have had issues of feeling like i needed more traction on steeper gravel descents, but you won’t see anything like that on rail trails. Let me know if you have any more questions- always glad to help!!

[@jimqpublic2]

@@aspenswanderings Thanks. My bike can probably handle that width, but my wife's is limited to 1-3/8.

[@offineer]

Nice video! Did you have to take the Paw Paw Tunnel bypass trail? Or was the C&O trail fully open now?

[@aspenswanderings]

It was fully open when I rode it- this was before they closed the tunnel. However, I believe I asked someone who rode it recently and they said it was fully open now…..but I would double check. I’m wanting to ride it again, but will definitely wait until it is truly fully open, because that bypass looks tough.

[@jenniferb3821]

It’s officially open again :)

[@Astronomater]

How many days did this trip take? The scenery looked very nice.

[@aspenswanderings]

It took us 6 days! The scenery was surprisingly awesome! Definitely the most scenic rail trail that I’ve ridden!

[@PizzaTwinsReviews]

How many days did it take to complete this trip?

[@aspenswanderings]

It took 6.5 days! We were riding anywhere from 40-65 miles a day.

[@diamondsprince]

nice video, trying to plan my own trip, where did yall park your car? the airport?

[@aspenswanderings]

There was a parking garage in Pittsburgh that we parked at. I can’t remember which one it was, but it wasn’t very far from the Amtrak station. I called ahead and made sure it was ok to park there for a week or so and they said it was fine.

[@thegreatexaggerator9077]

Very nice video! Bucket list for me soon. How long did you take?

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you! It took us 6 days! Seemed like we rode around 45 or 50 miles a day, with a couple of days right around 60 miles. It’s a great ride! Most people ride it from Pittsburgh to D.C. so they don’t have to climb the 25 miles out of Cumberland. I think I’ll ride it that direction next time! :)

[@thegreatexaggerator9077]

@@aspenswanderings thanks for the quick reply. Happy trails!

[@ralphlibinski-kt4dd]

That's a great ride. Thanks for the video. Your saddle seems higher than usual for your inseam, what gives?

[@aspenswanderings]

Your saddle height is actually taller than your inseam. I believe it should be around 110% of your inseam. When you’re sitting on your saddle, your knee should barely have a bend in it when you’re at the bottom of your pedal stroke. If your leg is fully extended at the bottom of your pedal stroke, your saddle is too high, if your knees are pretty bent, your saddle is too low. Saddles that are too low often cause knee pain. Hope this helps!!

[@ralphlibinski-kt4dd]

​@@aspenswanderings Thanks, I get all that. Maybe it's just the angle but it seemed your leg was extended nearly straight with your heel higher than your toe.

[@cyclistefroisse9267]

Bonjour Ralph, Some people pedal with their foot in this position (heel higher than toes). Nothing wrong, per see. One Annemiek van Vleuten, 2022 Tour de France winner, 2019 World Champions pedals with her foot almost vertical-shoe sole almost at a 90 degree angle with road surface, on the way down. @ Young Aspen ( old Anorak, here) keep on riding, life is short, make the best of it). Happy trail !!

[@stewart4711]

i have all the time no money go for a ride love to

[@BIIIKES]

Fun trip! Definitely on my bucket list for bike packing or "credit card packing" (which is more my speed), haha. Nicely done! Subbed. 🙂

[@aspenswanderings]

Honestly, on this trip we camped 3 nights and ended up getting a hotel/bed and breakfast the other 3…it’s just how it worked out. It would be super fun credit card packing!! I may do that next time. Thanks for watching!!

[@BIIIKES]

@@aspenswanderings Sweet! Looking forward to more videos. Keep on ridin'

[@princepage632]

awesome. hopefully when i ride the gap, it wont be raining to much. i really your name. aspen. what a good name. when did you get into cycling?

[@aspenswanderings]

Yes- hoping for no rain for your ride!! And thanks! I’m named after the aspen tree! My parents are very outdoorsy and hike and bike and everything, so I just grew up cycling. Thanks for watching!

[@1a2b3c4.]

Key words.... Just get out and do it.

[@aspenswanderings]

Yes!!

[@obfuscurity]

How many days did it take you to complete the ride?

[@aspenswanderings]

It took us 6 days! We typically rode 45 miles or so per day, with a couple of 60 mile days.

[@obfuscurity]

@@aspenswanderings Thanks!

[@charmontravel]

Energizing video! Thanks for the views and encouraging words! 😁

[@aspenswanderings]

Thank you for your kind words!! Thanks for watching!!

[@charmontravel]

@aspenswanderings no chore at all. Great vid!