If you have only ridden the Pittsburgh half of the Great Allegheny Passage, you have missed the best section. The 28 miles from Connellsville to Confluence, with a stop in Ohiopyle, is the stretch that proves why the GAP is the finest rail-trail in America. Here is why, and how to ride it.
The Stats
- Distance: 28 miles one way
- Surface: Crushed limestone, flat-ish
- Time: 3 to 4 hours riding, 6 to 7 hours with stops
- Elevation: Gentle climb from Connellsville to Ohiopyle, gentle roll from Ohiopyle to Confluence
- Scenery: Nonstop Youghiogheny River, cliffs, bridges, and forest
The Route
Connellsville has parking, food, and a renovated trailhead. Start there, head southeast along the Yough. By mile 10 you are deep in the Laurel Highlands. Ohiopyle appears around mile 17.5 with waterfalls, a ranger station, and every flavor of lunch option. From there, the 11 miles to Confluence is the stretch most Americans have never ridden and should.
Where to Stop
- Ohiopyle Falls overlook. The most photographed waterfall on the GAP.
- The Yough overlook pullouts between Ohiopyle and Confluence. Pick any one, sit, stare.
- Tissue Farm: Have an amazing latte and a Scone.
Where to Eat at the Finish Line
Roll into Confluence sweaty, happy, and ready. Shower at Smith House Inn or River’s Edge B&B, then walk to Pamela’s Pints and Provisions for dinner or to Trailhead Brewing for the beer you have been thinking about for three hours. If you landed on Sunday, catch River’s Edge Cafe brunch starting at 11 AM.
Logistics
- Bike rentals: Confluence Cyclery on the town square. Rent in Confluence and drive to Connellsville to start if you did not bring your own.
- Shuttles: Several outfitters run rider shuttles between the two towns. Ask at Confluence Cyclery for the current best option.
- Luggage: Sunshine Luggage Shuttle handles bag drops between GAP inns.
- Water: Top off in Connellsville, Ohiopyle, and Confluence. Long dry stretches in between.
Why This Ride, Why Now
Fall foliage peaks in the Laurel Highlands from late September through mid-October. The limestone glows, the water turns to glass, and you will have the trail to yourself on a weekday morning. The GAP is always worth riding. This section is worth planning around.
Pair this with our 48-hour Confluence itinerary and our full guide to the GAP at mile 61.5.