I was very intrigued to read about this trail. Especially that they are calling it a non-motorized trail (as opposed to many other long trails, which are thought of primarily as hiking trails).
My first question was: is the whole thing open to bikes?
The answer:
About 850 miles of the ADT are not open to bicycles because the trail is too rough, rocky, and/or steep for bikes to be practical or the local trail management policy excludes bicycle use (such as in wilderness areas). You can do the entire ADT by bicycle by using bicycle detours which are shown in some of the trail descriptions for each state or which can be obtained by consulting the state coordinator. Although a road bike may suffice in most of the Midwest, a mountain bike is required for other parts of the ADT. Many trail sections that are passable on a day ride are too difficult on a bicycle laden with camping gear.
Too rough, rocky or steep! We'll see about that.
But, wilderness is always a sticky point for bikepackers. It sounds like some detours have been worked out, and others, perhaps not. Probably not as much of an issue as on most long distance trails.
Please keep us informed on what you learn on your explorations. Would you be interested in being the "owner" (author) of an American Discovery Trail here on bikepacking.net?
Thanks.
