Welcome!
The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a 150-mile rail trail connecting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland. This scenic route is part of a larger 335-mile corridor that includes the C&O Canal Towpath, allowing hikers and cyclists to travel all the way to Washington, D.C. The GAP features crushed limestone surfaces and a gentle grade of 2%, making it accessible for users of varying skill levels. It passes through diverse landscapes, including the Laurel Highlands, Allegheny Mountains, and winding rivers like the Youghiogheny and Monongahela.
The trail offers breathtaking views from landmarks such as the Eastern Continental Divide and Big Savage Tunnel. Along the way, hikers encounter historic railroad structures, waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers in spring and fall. The GAP also connects to hospitable trail towns like Ohiopyle, Connellsville, and Frostburg, which provide amenities such as lodging, dining, and outfitters. With numerous campgrounds and picnic areas along its length, it’s ideal for day trips or extended adventures.
The GAP is not only a recreational treasure but also a cultural corridor showcasing remnants of coal mining and steel industries that shaped the region’s history. It intersects with other trails like the Montour Trail, Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and C&O Canal Towpath to Washington DC.
GAP Trail History:
The GAP’s origins date back to 1978 when the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy purchased 26.75 miles of abandoned Western Maryland Railway corridor near Ohiopyle State Park. The first section opened in 1986 between Ohiopyle and Confluence. Over the next three decades, volunteers and organizations worked tirelessly to expand the trail, converting disused railroad corridors into a world-class pathway.
In 1995, the Allegheny Trail Alliance (ATA) was formed to unite local trail groups under one banner. The GAP was completed in 2013 with the opening of its final segment between West Homestead and Point State Park in Pittsburgh. This milestone made Pennsylvania the state with the most rail trails at the time.
The trail’s name was chosen in 2001 to reflect its geographic and historical heritage. Today, it serves as part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail and September 11th National Memorial Trail while contributing to regional economic growth through tourism.
Hours: The GAP remains open from dawn to dusk, with campgrounds available for overnight trips. The trail is open year-round, but the Big Savage Tunnel (near the Maryland border) is typically closed from December through March.
This trail is managed by the GAP Conservancy. For more information, visit the GAP Conservancy website, or contact the GAP Conservancy at admin@gaptrail.org.
Cumberland, MD (Southern/Eastern Terminus): Located in downtown Cumberland, at the corner of Canal Street and Baltimore Street. You can find parking (for a fee) at the Canal Place (on Canal Street) or in a lot on nearby Howard Street.
Frostburg, MD: From Frostburg, take Fairview Street northeast. Follow this as it becomes Hospital Street, which then becomes Bealls Lane, which then becomes North Water Street. Then turn right onto Depot Street and continue for 0.2 mile. Turn left onto New Hope Road Northwest and continue for 0.2 mile. Parking is on the right, though limited space is available.
Meyersdale: Located in Meyersdale, along Main Street. Near the Meyersdale Area Historical Society building.
Confluence: From Confluence, take Robert Brown Road west 0.3 mile, then turn left onto River Road. Parking is on the left-hand side.
Ohiopyle: Located in downtown Ohiopyle, along Sheridan Street, near the intersection with Grant Street. Near Ohiopyle Low Bridge. Alternate parking available nearby if the lot fills.
Pittsburgh (Northern/Western Terminus): Located in downtown Pittsburgh, at the Point State Park Fountain. You can find parking (for a fee) at a garage on First Avenue or at the Grant Street Transportation Center on 11th Street. No parking is available in the State Park itself.
