In recent weeks I have come across a couple of indications that the hidden gem of a route known as the Allegheny Mountains Loop is growing in popularity. The route covers terrain both paved and gravel with grades ranging from 1 percent to a steep 18 percent. It also provides lots of opportunities to enjoy a more primitive style of camping, with regular indoor lodging stops available, as well. The first indication I noticed was a great ride report post on our Forums. The writer included not only his favorite bits and some observations about the riding conditions, but recommendations for additional activities like visiting the National Radio Telescope Observatory.
The second piece of evidence I came across was a review of the map on our online store, Cyclosource, for the Allegheny Mountains You Print version. (Since this map is a pdf file, you have the choice to print it yourself or pay a bit extra and order the Allegheny Mountains We Print version, to have us print it on tear- and water-resistant, 8.5" x 11" paper.) This reviewer had almost an identical experience as the forum poster, mentioning the low-traffic roads, sites to visit off the route, and a tire size recommendation.
While it appears to have been a good spring touring choice, don't despair that you missed your weather window for 2011. In the Routes & Mapping FAQ we recommend riding it any time between early spring and early fall, so you still have plenty of time to plan a trip for later in the year. (Note: the other two reviews available on Cyclosource were posted in September and October, so fall could easily be just as great.)
Map cover image by Routes & Mapping staff
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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, an Adventure Cycling cartographer, and appears weekly, highlighting curious facts, figures and persons from Adventure Cycling's Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.
Source: http://blog.adventurecycling.org/2011/06/allegheny-mountains-loop.html
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