indyfabz

The ruling grade on the GAP is less than 1.8%. 1.79% IIRC. That's tame compared to some. Ride the Mickelson Trail, the NorPac Trail or the Route of the Hiawatha and you will experience grades over 3% with rougher surfaces. There is one climb on the Mickelson that averages around 3% for several miles. Topping out at around 6,000' means you also have some elevation to deal with if you are a flatlander. That was a tough piece of railroad. Now it's a great trail. No offense to the GAP, but the Mickelson is much more scenic and challenging. Its major drawback from a touring perspective (as opposed to day riding) is that there are some stretches with few or no services or places to camp. Fortunately, there are well-placed "rest areas" with shelter from the sun (and hail) and water cisterns.