Cumberland, Maryland Hub
Cumberland, Maryland, serves as an excellent starting point for cyclists looking to explore the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath. Amtrak's
Capitol Limited and Floridian routes conveniently stop here, placing riders near the trailhead. Before setting off, a local favorite coffee shop offers fuel for the journey. The C&O Canal Towpath stretches east towards Washington D.C., tracing the Potomac River and passing historic aqueducts, including the impressive Paw Paw Tunnel. For overnight stays, charming canal houses, each reflecting a different historical period, are available along the path. Alternatively, a boutique hotel in Cumberland's historic district provides a stylish option close to local amenities. This location seamlessly blends historical significance with accessible outdoor recreation, making it a prime rail-to-trail destination.
Buffalo's Empire Trail
Buffalo, New York, has rapidly become a premier destination for cyclists seeking access to the expansive Empire State Trail. Multiple Amtrak services, such as the Empire Service and Lake Shore Limited, stop at the Exchange Street station, putting riders just a short distance from the trail's western terminus. The Empire State Trail is a vast, Y-shaped network connecting Buffalo to New York City and extending north to the Canadian border. As cyclists traverse this route, they'll encounter diverse landscapes, including fertile farmlands, historic canal locks, and picturesque riverside communities, even passing through other towns served by Amtrak like Albany and Schenectady. Ample resources, including free paper maps and downloadable GPS data, are available for navigation. Accommodation options vary from trailside campgrounds to comfortable hotels in town, offering flexible choices for multi-day adventures.
Tucson's Desert Loop
For those drawn to arid beauty and sun-drenched cycling, Tucson, Arizona, offers an exceptional experience. Amtrak's Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle routes arrive downtown, conveniently located near the Aviation Bikeway, which links directly to the extensive Chuck Huckelberry Loop, also known as 'The Loop.' This 138-mile paved path meanders through iconic saguaro cactus forests and classic Sonoran desert scenery. The route is dotted with numerous eateries, making it easy to refuel, with local spots offering delicious breakfast burritos and other staples. Overnight options range from scenic camping at Catalina State Park to comfortable hotels in nearby Oro Valley, many situated directly along the trail. Essential amenities like restrooms and water stations are strategically placed to ensure riders stay hydrated in the desert climate, providing a well-supported and immersive cycling adventure.
Pittsburgh's Trail Gateway
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a welcoming gateway for cyclists arriving via Amtrak's Pennsylvanian, Capitol Limited, and Floridian trains. The station is a mere mile from Point State Park, the official starting point of the magnificent Great Allegheny Passage. This popular crushed-limestone trail winds its way southeast, with charming trail towns appearing every 10 to 20 miles. These welcoming communities offer cyclists a chance to pause for ice cream, stay at bed-and-breakfasts, or enjoy a meal in quaint cafés. The trail's managing organization emphasizes the journey's ability to provide a respite from busy lives, offering a comprehensive guide with planning tools and town-to-town mileage. Travelers can enjoy a truly immersive experience by staying at small inns along the route, such as one in Meyersdale, where a welcoming front porch encourages riders to relax and soak in the surroundings.
Grand Junction's River Path
Travelers arriving in Grand Junction, Colorado, aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr are perfectly positioned just 1.5 miles from the scenic paved path that follows the Colorado River towards Fruita. This 28-mile route offers stunning vistas of the red rock cliffs of the Colorado National Monument, complemented by vibrant underpass murals and public art installations. Cyclists can find delicious refueling options in town, with a popular local spot serving up burgers and a wide selection of beers. For a coffee fix and pastries, a Main Street café is a favored stop. Grand Junction also serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader attractions of Western Colorado, including local vineyards, river-based recreational activities, and the unique high desert landscapes, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sedalia's Katy Trail
Located east of Kansas City, Sedalia, Missouri, acts as a vital gateway to one of the longest rail trails in the United States: the Katy Trail State Park. Amtrak's Missouri River Runner service brings cyclists within easy reach of this expansive 240-mile crushed-limestone trail. Before embarking, a visit to the Katy Depot, a short distance from the station, provides fascinating insights into the history of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad that once operated along this corridor. The trail meanders through picturesque farmland, tranquil wooded valleys, and quaint small towns. Cyclists have numerous opportunities to stop for refreshments, from enjoying coffee in St. Charles and breakfast in Rocheport to having dinner in Sedalia itself. The trail also passes by wineries offering tastings of locally produced Missouri wines, adding a unique flavor to the cycling experience.
West Glacier National Park
For an unforgettable adventure in Montana's natural splendor, West Glacier is the destination. Amtrak's Empire Builder train stops year-round in West Glacier, providing direct access to Glacier National Park. A brief walk from the station leads to West Glacier Village, offering a range of dining options, a small market, and souvenir shops, including one celebrating Montana's state fruit with huckleberry-themed products. Cyclists can easily access the Trail of the Cedars, a 12-mile paved path starting less than a half-mile from the station, leading to the town of Hungry Horse. For those wishing to explore the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a short pedal to the Apgar Visitor Center connects riders to a free shuttle service. During spring and early summer, cyclists can ride portions of the famous park road as it's cleared of snow, offering unparalleled mountain scenery.
Harpers Ferry's Junction
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, offers unparalleled ease for rail-to-trail enthusiasts. Amtrak's Capitol Limited stops directly in Lower Town, placing cyclists just a five-minute walk from cafés, outdoor gear shops, and charming guest houses, alongside significant historical sites. A complimentary shuttle service connects Lower Town to the visitor center at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Riders can conveniently transport their bikes across the pedestrian bridge spanning the Potomac River to access the C&O Canal Towpath. This area is also a notable point where the Appalachian Trail briefly overlaps, making it a popular spot for hikers. The park's visitor center features informative exhibits, including a detailed 3-D map of the trail corridor and its surrounding landscape, enhancing the understanding of this historic and scenic region.
