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Teen Treks - Bike Trips

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Great Allegheny Passage

Starts: Pittsburgh, PA

Ends: Washington, DC

Great Allegheny Passage

  • 3,295
  • 16 Days
  • 20-35 Miles per Day
  • Grade 7-9
  • Easy

Tour 1: June 21 – July 6
Tour 2: June 28 – July 13

 

Teen Tour: Bikepacking from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C.

Embark on a 16-day journey along the historic Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath, cycling over 340 miles from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington, DC. This off-road adventure offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Traverse scenic trails, explore charming towns, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region, all while enjoying a supportive and fun group environment.
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Teen Tour: Bikepacking from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C.

Embark on a 16-day journey along the historic Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath, cycling over 340 miles from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington, DC. This off-road adventure offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Traverse scenic trails, explore charming towns, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region, all while enjoying a supportive and fun group environment.
bike tour map from pittsburgh to washington dc

Start Your Summer Bike Tour

Tour Highlights at a Glance

Off-Road Cycling

Ride traffic-free trails from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC.

Whitewater Rafting

Experience the thrill of rafting on Pennsylvania’s Youghiogheny River.

Fallingwater Visit

Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece built over a waterfall.

Historic Sites

Explore Antietam Battlefield, Harpers Ferry and more.

Who Is This Teen Travel Program For

Middle School Students

Ready to embark on their first extended cycling adventure.

Beginner Cyclists

Comfortable with daily rides of 20–35 miles on gentle terrain.

History Enthusiasts

Interested in exploring significant American historical sites.

Team Players

Excited to build friendships and collaborate in a group setting.​
bicyclist in maryland
teen bike trek on the great allegheny passage
creek in pennsylvania

Daily Itinerary & Map

What You’ll Experience Each Day on This Teen Tour

Please Note: Full detailed itineraries are only available to cyclists and their parents/guardians.

andy warhol bridge in downtown pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

Start by cycling to Ohiopyle, enjoying scenic river views and a whitewater rafting adventure.

frank lloyd wright's fallingwater house

Fallingwater

Cross the Salisbury Viaduct, and ride through historic towns en route to Cumberland, MD.

trail near paw paw tunnel

Paw Paw Tunnel

Continue on the Great Allegheny Passage by exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry

Discover Civil War-era sites at Antietam Battlefield, and experience a 19th-century canal boat ride.

Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC

Washington DC

Conclude your journey with two days in Washington, DC, visiting national landmarks and reflecting on your tour.​

Cultural & Regional Highlights

crab cakes from maryland
four cannons at the Antietam Civil War Battlefield in Sharpsburg

Questions?

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The Inclusive Value of Every Teen Treks Journey

At TeenTreks, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Your payment covers all aspects of the journey, ensuring a hassle-free summer adventure. Additionally, as a not-for-profit organization, 100% of trip profits are reinvested into supporting youth outdoor programs.

– Cliff Madell, Founder

What’s Included In the Trek?

This experience combines the structure of traditional summer camps for teens with the freedom of a cross-country bikepacking journey.

  • Equipment: High quality group camping, cooking and safety gear.
  • Accomodations: Campsite fees and select hostel stays.
  • Meals: All 48 meals and daily snacks during the trek.
  • Support: Experienced trek leaders.
  • Activities: Admissions to national parks and scheduled excursions.
collage of a bicycle, teenagers eating lunch, and a camp site
teen bicyclist taking a selfie

Safety, Supervision & Peace of Mind

  • 20+ Years

    Zero Major Safety Incidents

  • Experienced, Trained Trek Leaders

    Every leader is CPR/First Aid certified, highly trained in road safety, and selected for their maturity, energy, and care for teens.

  • Daily Safety Checks

    Bikes are inspected daily, safety briefings are held each morning and bike-safety managers are assigned daily.

  • Small Group Sizes

    We keep our groups intentionally small for personalized attention and stronger supervision.

  • Detailed Itinerary Shared Privately

    The full, day-by-day itinerary is shared only with trekkers and their parents or guardians for safety and privacy.

  • Daily Check-Ins

    Trekkers report a daily blog of the day's highlights to be shared with families, leaders report to office daily, office staff are available for updates anytime.

A Fun-Distance Bikepacking Journey for Teens

This teen tour is built around the idea of a true journey—one that unfolds over days, not hours. Riding from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, teens experience bikepacking at a deeper level, where consistency, progress, and shared milestones shape the experience.

  • The fully off-road trail system allows teens to ride without traffic, creating a focused and immersive environment from start to finish.
  • The extended duration makes this one of the most rewarding summer trips for teens who want to commit to something meaningful and see it through.
  • Each day builds on the last, helping teens develop rhythm, confidence, and a strong sense of accomplishment as the miles add up.

Trails & Historic Landmarks

The route follows two of the most iconic long-distance trails in the U.S., blending natural scenery with cultural and historical depth. From river valleys to Civil War landmarks, the experience goes far beyond the ride itself.

  • The Great Allegheny Passage offers scenic riding through forests, river corridors, and small trail towns that feel connected to the history of the region.
  • Highlights like Fallingwater and the Salisbury Viaduct add memorable moments that combine architecture, engineering, and landscape.
  • Along the C&O Canal Towpath, teens encounter historic sites like Harpers Ferry and Antietam, bringing American history into a real-world setting.

Pittsburgh to the Nation’s Capital

This teen travel program is designed as a clear progression, where each phase of the journey introduces new terrain, new experiences, and a growing sense of purpose.

  • The trip begins in Pittsburgh, where riders quickly transition onto the trail and settle into the flow of long-distance riding.
  • Midway through the journey, the terrain shifts as teens move through Maryland, tunnels, and canal paths that require focus and adaptability.
  • The final arrival in Washington, DC provides a powerful finish, where riders reflect on the full journey while exploring national landmarks.

Confidence and Life Skills

For many teens, this is the first time they have been away from home for several weeks and faced such a clear personal challenge. The combination of distance, responsibility, and support creates powerful opportunities for personal growth that go far beyond cycling. 

  • Teens learn to manage their own gear, clothing, and daily routines, from packing in the morning to setting up tents and helping prepare meals at night.
  • Riding in varied terrain teaches pacing, perseverance, and thoughtful decision-making. They learn when to push, when to fuel up, and when to ask for coaching or support from leaders.
  • Shared challenges - headwinds, hills, or early wake-ups - become inside jokes and stories that riders bring back to school, future applications, or gap-year planning.

Reassuring Parents and Guardians

While riders focus on the next hill or the next viewpoint, parents and guardians prioritize structure, supervision, and safety. Our Portland-to-San Francisco route is designed for high school students, with experienced leaders, clear communication systems, and thoughtful pacing that acknowledges both teen enthusiasm and real-world limits.

  • Leaders receive training in road safety, first aid, group dynamics, and youth mentorship, combining the professionalism of established travel companies with a mission-driven focus on teens.
  • Group sizes are intentionally kept small so leaders can ride with participants, coach bike-handling skills, and respond quickly to changing conditions on the road or at camp.
  • Families benefit from transparent pricing and detailed pre-trip guidance, making it easier to plan, pack appropriately, and understand what each day on the road is likely to feel like for their teen.

Is this one of the longer teen tours available?

It’s average, one of the middle-ground teen tours offered, spanning over two weeks and covering hundreds of miles. It’s ideal for teens ready to take on a more immersive and extended experience.

Do teens need prior long-distance cycling experience?

No prior long-distance experience is required, but riders should feel comfortable with consecutive days of cycling and be prepared for a sustained effort.

What makes this different from other teen travel programs?

This journey is built around continuity. Instead of jumping between locations, teens follow a single connected route from start to finish, creating a stronger sense of progress and accomplishment.

A Journey That Stays With You

Completing a route from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC by bike gives teens a perspective that few experiences can match. It’s not just about reaching a destination—it’s about everything learned along the way.

Riders experience the gradual transition between regions, landscapes, and historical contexts as the journey unfolds.

The combination of distance, history, and group dynamics creates a deeper, more meaningful experience than traditional travel.

By the end, teens leave with a lasting sense of achievement and the confidence that comes from completing something truly significant.

Book a Teen Treks Bike Trip in PA & MD

Contact our friendly team today to learn more and reserve a place for your teen.

Book Your Teen's Trip Today

Pricing, Dates & Availability

Cost: $3,195 / person

For 16 Days

Other bike tours charge the same price for just 6 days. Teen Treks gives you 16 days of adventure, learning, and lifelong memories – over 3x the value!

  • Early booking is recommended to secure your place.
  • 16 Days
  • 450+ miles
  • 48 Meals
  • 6 hostel/hotel overnights
  • 1:5 leader to trekker ratio
  • 10+ swimming opportunities
  • Countless ice cream stops
  • Tour Dates:
  • June 21 - July 6
  • June 28 - July 13
  • July 5 - July 20
  • July 19 - August 3
Jordan
New Jersey

"The Great Allegheny Passage Trek was my first long-distance bike trip, and it was amazing! I loved the mix of nature, history, and fun activities like rafting."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Your Leader

Get To Know Our Leaders

At Teen Treks, our bike trip leaders are passionate, experienced individuals who are committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for every teen. With backgrounds in outdoor education, cycling, and youth mentorship, they’re more than just guides—they’re mentors who foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Through careful training in safety, first aid, and group dynamics, our leaders ensure every trip is both fun and supportive. They inspire teens to challenge themselves, build new friendships, and develop a lifelong love for adventure, making each bike tour a unique and unforgettable journey.

Learn More
teen bike tour photo on a giant chair
Great Allegheny Passage Trek

Dates & Pricing for Great Allegheny Passage Trek

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Tour Specific FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

What Makes the Great Allegheny Passage Bike Tour So Unique for Teens?

This teen tour follows a fully connected, traffic-free trail system from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, creating a true point-to-point bikepacking journey. Teens experience real progress each day as they move through river valleys, historic towns, and national landmarks. The combination of off-road riding, whitewater rafting, and cultural sites makes this one of the most immersive teen travel programs available.

How Physically Demanding Is This Bike Trip?

The ride is designed for beginner to intermediate cyclists, with daily distances of 20–35 miles on gentle, gradual grades. The crushed gravel towpaths and rail trails keep climbs manageable, even over a longer distance. While the trip spans over two weeks, the steady pacing helps teens build endurance naturally.

What Types of Landscapes Do Teens Ride Through?

Riders move through forested corridors, river valleys, and quiet canal paths that feel far removed from busy roads. The route includes standout features like the Salisbury Viaduct, Paw Paw Tunnel, and the scenic stretches along the C&O Canal. As the journey progresses, the landscape shifts from Pennsylvania’s hills to the historic terrain surrounding Washington, DC.

How Do Teens Handle Being Away From Home for So Long?

The structured routine and strong group environment help teens settle in quickly and feel supported. Shared responsibilities—like setting up camp and preparing meals—create a sense of ownership and independence. Over time, the group dynamic becomes a key source of comfort and connection.

What Happens on Rest Days or in Major Cities?

While this bikepacking journey focuses on steady movement, there are meaningful breaks built into the experience. Teens explore places like Harpers Ferry and Antietam, and enjoy activities like rafting in Ohiopyle. The final days in Washington, DC offer time to explore national landmarks and reflect on the full journey.

Is This Trip Safe for Teens Over Such a Long Distance?

Safety is a core strength of this teen tour, with most of the route taking place on dedicated, traffic-free trails. Leaders are trained in first aid, road safety, and group management, and daily safety checks ensure bikes and riders are prepared. Small group sizes allow for close supervision and personalized support throughout the trip.

Who Is the Ideal Fit fo the Great Allegheny Passage Bike Tour?

This trip is ideal for middle school students and newer riders ready to take on their first extended cycling experience. It’s a great match for teens who enjoy nature, history, and working toward a long-term goal. The supportive structure makes it approachable while still offering a meaningful challenge.

How Should Teens Prepare Physically for a Longer Trip?

Teens should aim to build comfort with back-to-back riding days before the trip begins. Regular bike rides, along with general fitness activities, will help prepare them for the distance. The program is designed to build strength and confidence gradually, so riders improve as they go.

General Tour FAQs

More About Our Teen Travel Program

Where do we sleep?

Teen Treks groups stay in hostels, hotels, and campgrounds. Wherever you go, you’ll get to know the place. In a major city, you’ll likely get to stay in a hostel right in the downtown area, steps from major tourist attractions and plenty of great restaurants. In the North American or European countryside, you’ll often camp out in beautiful settings, or stay in a hostel that’s part of a historic landmark. Our Lake Ontario Trek, for example, stays at the 1800s-era Tibbets Point Lighthouse hostel.

What are the trip leaders like?

Each group gets two leaders, who will be fun, resourceful adults who love hanging out with kids and who know bikes. Many took cross-country bike trips as teenagers like the ones they’re now leading, and they all complete a comprehensive leader training program and get CPR and First Aid certification. They’re teachers, human service professionals, travel and hospitality professionals, graduate students and college seniors. Some are avid cyclists and travel enthusiasts, while others have served in organizations like Americorps. Their average age is 25 years old.

What makes Teen Treks different?

Teen Treks gives teenagers the chance to discover the excitement and fun of bike touring with a bunch of like-minded people, seeing beautiful natural landscapes and world-class cities while gaining independence and travel skills. You’ll have great experiences out on the road and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Teens who take our trips get a lot of say in what the group does each day, from planning the details of the route to picking out what’s for dinner. If everyone wants to bike hard and get to the beach faster, you can do that. If you want to spend a little more time taking pictures at a breathtaking waterfall or a picturesque waterfront, you can do that. We give our trip leaders lists of activities and interesting sites along the route, but the group has the freedom to follow their preferences – every summer, our trekkers find things to do we didn’t know about, and we add them to our lists for next year.

Teen Treks offers by far the best value in truly extraordinary bike trips for teenagers. Over our history, we’ve run outstanding trips up and down the New England Shore from New York to Montreal, in the Pacific Northwest, and along the California Coast all the way Across America, and through the best sites in Europe. Check out our testimonials and compare our prices to other organizations’. Our trips, our experience, and our rates can’t be beat.

What do we eat?

Your leaders will make sure there’s plenty of food for everyone, and that it’s tasty as well as good for you. Breakfast will be quick but satisfying – hot oatmeal or cereal, for example – and lunch will keep you going with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches. For dinner, you may go to a local restaurant or make something hot together, like pasta, flatbread pizzas, or fajitas.

Our trips readily accommodate those with special dietary requirements, and we’re very conscious of food allergies – just let us know what you need.

What kind of bike should I bring?

We recommend using a touring bike, a road bike, or a hybrid with at least 15 speeds; 15-27 is ideal. If you need to buy a bike, you should be able to get one that will work great for touring for $400-$1000. Teen Treks does not allow participants to use high-performance racing bikes, dirt bikes, fixed-gear bikes, or Dutch-style roadsters.

Your bike should have a set of new tires at the time your trip starts.

Please call or email us if you’d like to talk bike choices.

Who goes on a typical Teen Trek?

Our groups include up to 10 teens, led by 2 outstanding leaders. We try to keep the gender balance even, half boys and half girls, and we group teens by age to create a positive, cohesive social environment.

Some of our trips, like the European Phantom and Pacific Northwest Treks, are designed for older teens, where others, like the Niagara-Toronto trek, cater to a younger age group. When a route will work well for kids across a range of ages, we run several trips, one for each age group. Check out our Trips Table to see what trips we have for your age.

Teens who travel with us have come from all 50 states, Canada, Europe and Asia.

How will I keep in touch with home?

You’ll be able to call home for short chats using the leader’s cell phones every 6-7 days. We provide parents with a trip itinerary and we post regular updates on our blog to show off the adventures our trekkers are having. In addition, leaders touch base with the Teen Treks office daily, so parents can contact us for information as the trip progresses.

What happens on rainy days?

If it’s only raining lightly, the trip will carry on as planned. Heavy rains or thunderstorms are usually short-lived, so your group will sit out the storm in a coffee shop, at a store, or in some other sheltered location, and continue on your way once it passes.

Great Allegheny Bike Tour is now open for booking.
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