Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale

Easy

4.5

(8569)

18,414

hikers

Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale

01:15

4.58km

70m

Hiking

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

210 m

Helmstetter’s Curve

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Helmstetter’s Curve is one of the most notable sections of the GAP. Located between Cumberland and Frostburg, the curve was built to help ease the gradients for trains trying to …

Tip by

1.96 km

The Brush Tunnel is a 911-foot-long tunnel along the GAP that takes you through the Allegheny Mountains. The tunnel was constructed in 1911 by the Western Maryland and there is still an active train line that runs through it.

Tip by

2.01 km

Brush Tunnel

Highlight (Segment) • Structure

Tip by

4.58 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.43 km

117 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.25 km

167 m

117 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (340 m)

Lowest point (290 m)

Weather

Saturday 20 June

26°C

13°C

-- %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: -- km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

Want to know more?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Description

If you're looking for an easy, rewarding hike with a touch of history, the Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale is definitely worth your time. This easy 2.8-mile (4.6 km) hiking route, with just 218 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 14 minutes, making it a perfect high-payoff win for families or anyone seeking a pleasant stroll.

What to expect on Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale

This loop offers a delightful journey through the Ridge and Valley region, combining natural beauty with fascinating railway history. The terrain is typically packed, crushed limestone, with some sections possibly paved, providing an accessible path for all. You'll wind through forested areas, enjoying lush greenery and glimpses of mountain views. The standout features are undoubtedly Helmstetter's Curve, a picturesque 180-degree horseshoe-shaped arc offering scenic views of Cash Valley, and the historic 911-foot (286-meter) Brush Tunnel. Both were built for the Western Maryland Railway, and today you might even spot vintage trains from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad sharing the path, though be aware they can be noisy and emit fumes inside the tunnel. This easy hike with minimal elevation gain is suitable for all skill levels, from casual walkers to dog owners.

Planning your visit

The Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop is well-maintained and popular, especially on weekends from spring to fall. Parking for the Great Allegheny Passage in this area can be found conveniently at Cash Valley Road in La Vale. It's a straightforward route, so you won't need extensive planning, but arriving earlier on busy days might secure you a better spot.

Trail details