Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from Cumberland

Bike touring routes & trails

Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from Cumberland

Moderate

4.7

(4654)

6,133

riders

Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from Cumberland

01:52

21.3km

260m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 4, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

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3.75 km

WM Scenic RR Double Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad crosses two historic girder bridges built by the Cumberland & Pennsylvania Railroad. Now part of the scenic route traveled by the Frostburg Flyer, these bridges …

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6.46 km

Cumberland Bone Cave

Cave Entrance

8.56 km

Helmstetter’s Curve

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Helmstetter’s Curve is one of the most notable sections of the GAP. Located between Cumberland and Frostburg, the curve was built to help ease the gradients for trains trying to …

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10.3 km

The Brush Tunnel is a 911-foot-long tunnel along the GAP that takes you through the Allegheny Mountains. The tunnel was constructed in 1911 by the Western Maryland and there is still an active train line that runs through it.

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10.4 km

Brush Tunnel

Highlight (Segment) • Structure

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21.1 km

Great Allegheny Passage KM 0 and C&O Canal Towpath Northern Terminus

Highlight • Trail

The official Mile 0 of the Great Allegheny Passage is found in downtown Cumberland under the arch, next to the train station and connected to the northern terminus of the …

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21.3 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

13.7 km

7.54 km

Surfaces

14.2 km

7.09 km

Elevation