Originally Posted by
lurch0038
I can see from the elevation chart that the GAP trail drop 1700' in 25 miles from the eastern continental divide to Cumberland. I would like to ride this trail with my inexperienced riding family but have concerns about the grade and want to make this a fun experience. Is the grade too steep for inexperienced riders?
As others have mentioned the grade isn't bad, you won't be able to do any coasting during the e-w climb, it would be steady pedaling up from Cumberland. However when you say "inexperienced riders" that can mean a lot. I would be more concerned about distance than elevation, how far have your family members ridden on a rail trail before? The "fun" can quickly end when the miles get too long.