4.8
(5)
45
riders
Big Savage Tunnel – Meyersdale Visitors Center loop from Cumberland
06:15
108km
1,130m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
6.37 km
Cumberland Bone Cave
Cave Entrance
8.47 km
Helmstetter’s Curve
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
24.9 km
Frostburg Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
35.1 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
35.2 km
Big Savage Tunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
Tip by
51.5 km
Meyersdale Visitors Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
54.1 km
Salisbury Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
69.9 km
Eastern Continental Divide
Highlight • Monument
The Eastern Continental Divide marks a stark divide between two watersheds: …
Tip by
74.9 km
Mason-Dixon Line Monument
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
108 km
Great Allegheny Passage KM 0 and C&O Canal Towpath Northern Terminus
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
108 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
96.2 km
12.0 km
Surfaces
50.3 km
46.4 km
11.1 km
305 m
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Elevation
Highest point (730 m)
Lowest point (190 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
28°C
18°C
40 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly rewarding, long-distance gravel biking adventure with a rich historical backdrop, the Big Savage Tunnel – Meyersdale Visitors Center loop from Cumberland is definitely worth your time. This difficult 67.1-mile (108.1 km) route packs in 3704 feet (1129 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 6 hours and 14 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for experienced gravel riders seeking a challenging day on remarkably gentle grades, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels along the Great Allegheny Passage.
What to expect on Big Savage Tunnel – Meyersdale Visitors Center loop from Cumberland
This route takes you on a journey along the Great Allegheny Passage, primarily on a smooth crushed limestone surface that's perfect for gravel bikes. You'll experience a gradual, continuous climb if you're heading from Cumberland towards the Eastern Continental Divide, which can be tiring over the distance, but the grades are consistently gentle, typically between 1% and 4%. The scenery constantly changes, from winding through valleys and alongside rivers to offering expansive views. A major highlight is the Big Savage Tunnel, a cool, well-lit passage, and just beyond it, the Eastern Continental Divide marks the highest point on the GAP. Don't miss the spectacular vista from the eastern side of the Big Savage Tunnel, where you can see mountain peaks stretching across three states: Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. You'll also cross impressive structures like the Salisbury Viaduct, adding to the historical charm of the ride.
Planning your visit
Before you set out, be aware that the Big Savage Tunnel is closed annually during winter, typically from December to April, to prevent freeze/thaw damage, so plan your trip accordingly. The Meyersdale Visitors Center, located in a restored railway station, serves as an excellent trailhead and offers amenities like free parking, restrooms, picnic tables, and even e-bike charging stations. While the trail is generally accessible, the sheer distance and elevation make it a difficult undertaking, so ensure you're prepared for a long day in the saddle.
- Distance: 67.1 miles (108.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 3704 feet (1129 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 6 hours and 14 minutes
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