(GAP) Greater Allegheny Passage Bike Trip

The GAP…No, not the ever-popular clothing store with quality items at reasonable prices - We’re talking the Greater Allegheny Passage bike trip today folks.  Much like the Oregon Trail of old, the GAP is an outlet for those seeking to pioneer a new, in search for adventure.

Okay, that may be a bit dramatic. The reality is the Greater Allegheny Passage is quite a popular trail for bikers, hikers, trail runners etc. to pioneer from Pittsburgh, all the way down to Cumberland, Maryland. They can then catch a connecting trail to our Nation’s Capital. The GAP Totals 150 miles one way and is overflowing with beautiful scenery, quaint trail towns and checked bucket lists.

So why are we talking about the GAP? Well as you may have seen within our various social media posts- ATP’s very own Caleb Kolb and Sarah Watkins recently set out on an exciting adventure and conquered the trek.
The somewhat impromptu journey is a fine example of living out what you firmly believe. Let me explain- about one month prior to departure, Caleb and Sarah were at REI purchasing gear for some of our programs (check out our programs page here). If you’re not familiar with REI its an awesome store for all things camping, hiking, outdoors etc.  They stumbled upon a brochure for the GAP and were instantly intrigued. Without skipping a beat, they knew they had to crush it, before even discussing it. Aside from the challenge of finding four free days, they also realized they’d have to camp the whole thing, battle the elements, and make sure their bikes could handle it. Most would have tabled the adventure for next year, but where’s the fun in that?

I urge you to listen to our founder, Jon Kolb discuss where the name- Adventures in Training with a Purpose comes from. Jon describes adventure as setting out on a challenge, without knowing the outcome. In discussing adventure, he talks about standing at the base of a mountain, being able to look at it and, by the grace of God, conquering it.

That’s the mentality of our founder, leadership and those we work with.  Every day is an adventure to conquer and we need to push ourselves to new heights- so no matter what future mountain, trail, or giant you may face, no matter how big or small, you can look at it and smile with the anticipation of your next conquest.
Be adventurous- and stay tuned for Caleb and Sarah’s rundown of their amazing trip!