To Register:
If you're all set and are ready to register for the ride, contact Courtney Bell at 412.255.0564 x 21 or cbell@ventureoutdoors.org. Or download the registration form.


Frequently Asked Questions:
1.  How many miles will be covered each day and how strenuous is the ride?
2.  What is the trail surface like?
3.  What type of bike works best on the trail?
4.  What other type of equipment is needed?
5.  Is transportation for riders and gear provided?
6.  Could just a portion of the ride be done for a reduced price?
7.  Will there be a shuttle back to Washington DC at the end of the ride?
8.  Are meals included?
9.  What type of accommodations are provided?
10.  Are there lodging options?
11.  What is the cost and when does the Early Bird Price go up?
12.  When is payment due?
13.  When are sign-ups closed?
14.  Are there any age restrictions?
15.  How fast is the ride pace?
16.  What if I fall behind?
17.  What if I register but something comes up and I can’t make the ride?
18.  What if I get lost?
19.  Will there be any activities during the ride or in the evening?
20.  Will we take breaks during the day?
21.  Who can I email with other questions?
22.  How do I sign-up for the Tour?

1. How many miles will be covered each day and how strenuous is the ride?
The tour will cover 335 miles, averaging 45 miles per day. The longest day will be 60 miles. Think of it as doing your normal 20-30 mile ride in the morning, having lunch, then doing it again in the afternoon. But this time, there will be new scenery and interesting sites all the way!
Both the C&O Canal Towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage are relatively flat, following river valleys most of the way.
 
2. What is the trail surface like?
The trail is unpaved, either packed dirt or limestone.

3. What type of bike works best on the trail?
Mountain bikes work best because of the extra cushion of fatter tires. Hybrid bikes also work well, especially if they have shock absorbers for the sometimes bumpy C&O Canal Towpath.

4. What other type of equipment is needed?
Camping gear, including tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Equipment rental may be available. You’ll also need a small day pack to carry your lunch, water, snacks, a camera, sunscreen, etc. throughout the day.

5. Is transportation for riders and gear provided?
Yes, motor coach transportation will be provided from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. on September 27, when we will start the ride. All bikes and gear transportation will be provided as well. Personal gear will be shuttled to the new camp site each day.

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6. Could just a portion of the ride be done for a reduced price?
No, because of the size and scope of the ride, all participants are committing to the full tour.

7. Will there be a shuttle back to Washington DC at the end of the ride?
No, we encourage everyone to drive to Pittsburgh and ride down on the bus with the group.

8. Are meals included?
Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be catered throughout the bike tour.

9. What type of accommodations are provided?
Each camp site will have showers and either bathrooms or porta-potties, which will be clean and fresh.

10. Are there lodging options?
Some folks choose to treat themselves to B&B lodging as available. Several of the camp sites will be close enough for you to rent a room for the night if you choose.

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11. What is the cost and when does the Early Bird Price go up?
$785 Early Bird Price goes up to $875 on June 16, 2008.

12. When is payment due?
$200 deposit holds your spot until June 15, after which payment in full is due. Full payment must be received by June 15, 2008 to receive the Early Bird Price.

13. When are sign-ups closed?
The ride is limited to the first 250 paid cyclists. Register early because this Tour will sell out!

14. Are there any age restrictions?
Parents and guardians will be responsible for any dependents and must determine if the ride is appropriate for the participant, keeping in mind all eight days and 335 miles.

15. How fast is the ride pace?
Cyclists are encouraged to travel at their own pace. We will provide ride leaders and assistants that will ride at a comfortable pace. You are welcome to ride with the group, or you may head out earlier in the morning to ride at your own pace and use the map provided to make it to the next stop.

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16. What if I fall behind?
Designated riders will be at the back of the ride and “sweep” the trail, assisting anyone with mechanical or physical difficulties. Additionally, the Tour is supported by vehicles the entire time.

17. What if I register but something comes up and I can’t make the ride?
Due to the need to reserve campsites, transportation, catering, and amenities, the following refund policy applies to the VO 250 Bike Tour. Cancel before August 27th and you'll receive a refund of all but $100. Cancel from August 27th to September 13th and receive a 50% refund of the total trip price. After September 13th, there will be no refunds.

18. What if I get lost?
There will be numerous ride leaders and assistants to keep you on the trail. Additionally, you’ll have your own map. If all else falls, call a support vehicle and we will find you and assist.

19. Will there be any activities during the ride or in the evening?
Yes, throughout the Tour there will be opportunities to learn about the rich history surrounding the trail.

20. Will we take breaks during the day?
Yes, you'll have a picnic lunch with you and can stop whenever you like. There are many beautiful spots along the trail, including old cement mills, man made waterfalls, and numerous locks. Additionally, there will be a mid day stop where you can refill you water bottles and grab a snack.

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21. Who can I email with other questions?
Seth Gernot, Bike Tour Coordinator at biketour@ventureoutdoors.org

22. How do I sign-up for the Tour?
Call Venture Outdoors at 412.255.0564 or email Seth at biketour@ventureoutdoors.org