Originally Posted by
AusTexMurf
Basically low grade trail on old rail line through the Allegheny mountains of Pa and Md. Easy, beautiful riding with tons of scenic and historic stops along the way. I would suggest home basing in Frostburg, Md and taking day trips or bed and breakfast type stops along the trail. You can also explore scenic Maryland on the C&O canal path. Have fun wherever you choose.
Besides the fact that the OP is especially seeking paved trails preferably in the Midwest and that some in Minnesota & Ohio have been suggested, even if the OP were to choose the GAP, Frostburg would be a terrible location to be based. There is a very steep hill to return to Frostburg from the GAP. They would have to do that each time they returned to Frostburg. Remember, they'll have a 3 year old in a trailer, and an 8 year old riding his own bike. And if they head to Cumberland, they'd have a long, gradual uphill the entire way to return to Frostburg, then the steep hill back to the town. And if they head in the other direct toward Pennsylvania, they have a long gradual uphill to the eastern continental divide. Although it's a reasonably gentle railroad grade, there are much better base locations for them, even if they were to choose the GAP.