3M Bike Challenge

Race Overview

• Date: September 26, 2026
• Location: Canal Pl, Cumberland, MD
• Event: 3M Challenge (Muscle vs. Machine vs. Mountain)
• Website: http://www.BikeReg.com/3m-bike-challenge

The Route

• Unique Trail: The Great Allegheny Passage between Cumberland and Frostburg features 15.6 miles of side-by-side bike trails and scenic trains.
• Challenge Route: The 3M Challenge will be a timed ride from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) Station in Cumberland, MD, to the western end of the train platform at the Frostburg, MD, Depot.
• Departure: Individuals and teams (up to 6 riders) will depart Cumberland every 5 minutes, starting at 9:00 AM, from the water spout on the Scenic Railway train platform at the train station at Canal Place.
• GPS Route: Track the route on Ride with GPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38734043

Rider Information

• Team Size: A team can consist of 2 to 6 riders.
• Power Source: All competitive challenger bicycles must be 100% human (rider) powered. E-bikes are not permitted in the competitive categories.
• Minimum Donation: Each team must donate $250 to MMT: individual riders must donate $60.
• Participation Shirt: All participants will receive a Great Allegheny Passage 3M Race Shirt, but shirt availability is not guaranteed.

About the Challenge

• Objective: The challenge aims to achieve a better climb time than the WMSR 1309 Steam Engine.
• Recognition: Individuals who beat the locomotive's climb time will receive recognition.
• Participation Gift: All participants will receive a Great Allegheny Passage 3M Race Shirt.

Purpose of the Event

• Organization: Mountain Maryland Trails collaborates with local government, the Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy, and community volunteers.
• Project Focus: Efforts include maintaining a network of trails for wellness, sustainable development, and cultural connection.
• Visitor Impact: The trail welcomes 1.5 million visitors annually and provides significant economic benefits.
• Community Value: Promotes the Great Allegheny Passage Trail to tourists and serves as a beloved local spot.