Great Allegheny Passage: Rockwood to Garrett

This segment of the Great Allegheny Passage is considered easy. As a converted railway, it features a nearly level grade with slopes rarely exceeding 2%, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers, including families and beginners.

The trail primarily consists of a smooth, stable crushed limestone surface, typical of rail-trails. You might encounter some paved sections near trailheads, such as in Rockwood. The path is generally 8-10 feet wide, expanding to almost 14 feet in some areas.

Yes, the Great Allegheny Passage is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail for all users.

The trail is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potentially warmer temperatures. The trail is universally accessible between dawn and dusk.

You'll be surrounded by nature, with the trail running alongside the Casselman River and through lush forests, offering unspoiled river views. Keep an eye out for Pletcher Falls, various streams, and interesting geological formations. While not directly on this segment, the impressive Salisbury Viaduct is a significant landmark of the GAP located a few miles from Garrett.

Parking is available at the trailheads in both Rockwood and Garrett. These are common access points for the Great Allegheny Passage, and you'll find designated parking areas for trail users.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the Great Allegheny Passage. It is a public recreational trail.

Yes, this segment is part of the larger Great Allegheny Passage trail system. It also intersects with sections of the Great Allegheny Passage (Pennsylvania), 50 (Pennsylvania), and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (left bank). Garrett also serves as a hub for connecting to the designated "911NMT" route leading to the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville.

Rockwood is a charming small town offering amenities like B&Bs, a brewery, and a small shopping district. Garrett also provides services for trail users, including connections to other routes.

This trail segment is approximately 12.3 kilometers (about 7.6 miles) long. For hiking, you should generally allocate around 3 hours and 12 minutes to complete it, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, as a converted rail-trail with a gentle grade and smooth surface, this section of the Great Allegheny Passage is considered universally accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of users.