Yacin Zawam practices medicine at the University of Toledo. In his spare time, he enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, and biking through trails in the hills and valleys of Ohio. In the following article, Yacin Zawam discusses the most scenic trails for biking (or hiking) in this beautiful state.
Nestled between the Midwest and Appalachia, Ohio’s luscious landscape and rich cultural heritage combined the essential spirit of both regions. Since much of the state is relatively flat, it’s an ideal destination for long-distance cyclists and bikepackers.
Many organizations and coalitions work tirelessly to keep the state’s interlacing network of bike trails neat and well-kept, resulting in some of the best rides in the country for bikers of all skill levels.
Best Bikes for Trail Rides
Yacin Zawam explains that several factors determine the type of bicycle that best suits a given journey, such as the length of the trip, the type of terrain, and how remote the trail is. For short rides on paved trails with ample access to towns and shops, just about any bike will do, as long as it’s the right size for the rider and in decent repair. A longer or more remote adventure will require more specialized equipment.
Multi-day rides on flat, paved trails are ideal for touring bicycles, which can carry heavy loads without impeding their progress. For rough terrain with lots of steep uphills and downhills, a mountain bike with shock absorption is likely the most suitable. Bike trails that are laid in gravel will be easiest to traverse on an adventure bike or gravel bike, both of which come equipped with wider tires for maximum traction explains Yacin Zawam.
The Most Scenic Biking Trails in Ohio
Ohio is home to 1,523 miles of dedicated bike paths, more than any other state in the country. Some wind their way up and down the rugged and beautiful Appalachian Mountains, while others follow twisting rivers and old industrial routes through picturesque cities and towns.
Yacin Zawam provides a few of the most scenic biking trails in the Buckeye State:
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
A section of the much longer Ohio to Erie Trail, this popular path follows a 90-mile route that was once used by teams of mules to pull boats along the now-defunct canal. Most of the trail is paved, with a few sturdy boardwalk bridges and two stretches of well-maintained crushed limestone. Riders looking to balance their natural and urban exploration will revel in the journey through the stunning landscapes of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and historic downtown Akron.
Western Reserve Greenway
Yacin Zawam reports that with 43 miles, this beginner-friendly asphalt rail trail follows the former Pennsylvania Railway through bucolic rural Ohio from the shores of Lake Erie to the town of Warren. The Greenway features multiple river crossings on trestle bridges that offer a majestic bird’s-eye view of the surrounding scenery, and its highlight is a venerable stone bridge that arches over the Trumbull River just a few miles from the end of the trail.
Kokosing Gap Trail
This leisurely 13.5-mile route takes visitors through an exciting tour of Ohio’s rich railway history. Yacin Zawam says that old train cars, railroad bridges, and a huge stone tunnel are some of the highlights train enthusiasts will be thrilled to encounter. The trail is completely paved in asphalt, lovingly maintained, and features benches at every half-mile, making it accessible for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
Mohican Mountain Bike Trail
For those looking for a challenging mountain biking experience over rugged terrain with absolutely spectacular views, it doesn’t get much better than the Mohican Mountain Bike Trail in sumptuous Mohican State Park. With a total elevation change of 1,655 feet, this 25-mile loop will test the limits of the most experienced mountain biker as it snakes up and down through gorgeous fern-drenched forests according to Yacin Zawam. Multiple pull-outs and side trails, including one that leads to a fire tower-turned-lookout point, offer a chance to take a breather and admire the scenery.
Trail Bike Maintenance Tips
Yacin Zawam says that basic maintenance ability is an essential component of planning a mid- or long-distance cycling trip. Bikers who intend to travel through remote areas or for distances over five miles should know how to do the following:
- Patch a punctured tube using a patch kit, glue, or duct tape.
- Check tire pressure. A portable bike pump that provides PSI readings is an ideal tool for this purpose.
- Clean the entire bike to prevent trapped dirt and grit from damaging sensitive components.
Adventure Awaits
Yacin Zawam states that Ohio has a well-earned reputation as one of the premier long-distance trail riding destinations in the country. Cyclists of all skill levels will find routes that suit their needs. From majestic natural vistas to bustling cityscapes, Ohio’s scenic bike trails offer a unique smorgasbord of culture and wilderness to anyone adventurous enough to seek them out.
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