Are ACA routes on paved roads?

[fredhines]

Can someone tell me whether ACA routes are all paved? I'm looking to ride from San Francisco to New York on a road bike, possibly via the Western Express and Trans America Trail. Does anyone know if these consist entirely of paved roads or whether they have unpaved portions as well? Sorry if this is a dumb question - I just couldn't figure it out from the website.

Many thanks,
Fred

[FredHiltz]

Hi Fred,

The routes you mention are paved. (The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is mostly not.) There are a few short unpaved sections where no practical paved route exists. I mean just a few, recalling only one on the entire Northern Tier. There are a few bike paths paved with crushed limestone. These are all suitable for a road touring bike fitted with typical tires for loaded touring.

You will, of course, encounter missing pavement in construction zones.

Fred

[Peaks]

Well, Fred, I recall at least 3 short sections on the Northern Tier that were unpaved.  But, all of these were hard pack gravel, so no problem with conventional road bike tires. 

[fredhines]

Perfect. Thanks a lot to both of you. Can't wait to do the big ride!

Cheers,
Fred