Fall OETA Tour – September 19th-25th 2026

Ohio Erie Trail Adventure (OETA) is a fully supported tour along the stunning 326-mile trail that links the Ohio River in Cincinnati to Lake Erie in Cleveland. This tour takes the Ohio to Erie Trail, which mostly uses rail trails and canal paths, going through four big cities, numerous small towns, and plenty of rural areas. 7 Riding days and 7 Overnights

Ohio-based Operator & Value Leader!

The OETA is presented by Ohio-based Outdoor Pursuits, who granted over $1 million to the development of this trail. You’ll also note that OETA is the cost value leader for tours on this trail; as a non profit organization we can operate this comparable full service tour at rates less than other out-of-state commercial operators AND still provide financial support back to bicycle infrastructure initiatives!

New Pricing Format for 2026:

– All overnight accommodations (7 hotel nights) are included in the OETA Tour Registration 

– Two (2) dinners and 6 breakfasts included in the OETA Tour Registration

– Special presentations by local leaders responsible for the development of the Ohio to Erie Trail

– Special tours (and dinner) of Millersburg Amish culture and Ariel Foundation Park in Mt. Vernon (stunning industrial reclamaition site)

– “Half Tour” options (limited)

See the “Daily Tabs” section below for more details on each day’s route, attractions, and activities

OETA Registration - Click Here!

Day 0: Preparatory Shakedown 

The expedition commences with a “Shake Down Ride” in Milford to ensure equipment readiness. 

  • Route: South to the river and back. 
  • Format: Out and back. 
  • Total Miles (TM): 36-mile round trip.

Day 1: Milford to Cedarville 

The first full day of transit moves from the Milford starting point toward the northeast. 

  • Start Point: Milford (MM 18). 
  • End Point: Cedarville (MM 77). 
  • Total Miles: 59 miles. 

Day 2: Cedarville to Westerville (Embassy Suites) 

Day 2 involves a transition between mapping segments and includes a significant hotel connection south of Interstate 270. 

  • Segment A: Cedarville (MM 77) to Galloway (MM 115). 
  • Segment B: Galloway (MM 0) to Embassy Suites/Westerville (MM 25). 
  • Total Miles: 63 miles (38 miles in the first segment + 25 miles in the second). 

Day 3: Central Map Segment (Westerville to Mount Vernon) 

This stage utilizes the RWGPS Central Map, moving through the heart of the state. 

  • Start Point: Embassy Suites (MM 25). 
  • End Point: Mount Vernon (MM 60). 
  • Total Miles: 35 miles. 

      Day 4: Mount Vernon to Millersburg 

      Day 4 concludes with a cultural component in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country. 

      • Start Point: Mount Vernon (MM 60). 
      • End Point: Millersburg (MM 100). 
      • Total Miles: 40 miles. 
      • Scheduled Activity: Amish Tour and Dinner. 

       

      Day 5: Northern NB Segment (Millersburg to Akron) 

      The route shifts to the RWGPS Northern NB map for the penultimate leg of the journey. 

      • Start Point: Millersburg (MM 0). 
      • End Point: Akron Lock 4 Park (MM 65). 
      • Total Miles: 65 miles. 

      Day 6: Final Approach to Cleveland 

      The final day completes the expedition at the shores of Lake Erie. 

      • Start Point: Akron Lock 4 Park (MM 65). 
      • End Point: Edgewater Park (MM 107). 
      • Total Miles: 42 miles. 

       

       

       

      About OETA

      The Ohio to Erie Trail Adventure (OETA) is a fully supported, end-to-end journey across Ohio’s most celebrated long-distance trail. Spanning roughly 326 miles, the route follows the Ohio to Erie Trail, connecting the Ohio River in Cincinnati to the shores of Lake Erie in Cleveland.

      The trail experience is intentionally accessible and immersive, using primarily rail trails and historic canal paths. Riders pass through four major cities, dozens of welcoming towns, and long stretches of quiet countryside—offering a rare, uninterrupted look at Ohio’s landscapes, history, and communities.

      What makes OETA truly distinctive is its deep connection to the trail itself. Over more than twenty years, Columbus Outdoor Pursuits invested nearly $1 million to help bring the Ohio to Erie Trail from vision to reality, championing it as a destination corridor for riders from across the country.

      Every mile you ride helps preserve the trails we love. We contribute 1% of your registration fee directly to the Ohio to Erie Trail Fund to help maintain these pathways for the next generation.

      Route Information

      The Ohio to Erie Trail is a 326-mile multi-use trail stretching diagonally across Ohio — from the Ohio River in the southwest to Lake Erie in the northeast.

      It connects regional parks, rural farmland, small towns, and one of the country’s most scenic national parks into one continuous journey.

      Trail Surface & Conditions

      • Approximately 83% off-street trail

      • Primarily paved or hard-packed crushed limestone

      • Designed for bicycles and other non-motorized users

      The trail’s surface makes it well-suited for touring bikes, hybrids, road bikes with wider tires, and e-bikes.

      Start & Finish Tradition

      OETA follows the classic Ohio to Erie tradition:

      Start:
      Dip your rear tire in the Ohio River beneath the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati.

      Finish:
      Dip your front tire in Lake Erie at Edgewater Park in Cleveland.

      That’s the full crossing — Ohio River to Lake Erie.

      Scenic Highlights

       

      Little Miami State Park

      Ride along the Little Miami River through one of Ohio’s most beautiful rail-trails. Expect shaded paths, river views, and peaceful countryside.

      Cuyahoga Valley National Park

      Approximately 20 miles of the trail pass through this nationally recognized park. Forested corridors, waterfalls, and the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath make this a tour favorite.

      Communities Along the Way

      OETA connects vibrant cities with welcoming small towns.

      • Yellow Springs – Artsy, energetic, and full of personality

      • Peninsula – A gateway town to Cuyahoga Valley National Park

      • Numerous bike-friendly cafés, bakeries, and breweries throughout the route

      These communities are part of what makes the journey special.

      A National Landmark Trail

      Also known as Ohio Bike Route 1, the Ohio to Erie Trail is recognized as one of the longest continuous paved bike routes in the United States.

      It is more than a trail — it’s a statewide corridor connecting landscapes, history, and communities.

      Official Trail Resource

      For trail-wide updates and statewide information, visit the Ohio to Erie Trail website.

      What's Included

      Your Registration Fee Includes

      • Overnight hotel accomodations (single occupancy is an additional charge) for 7 nights
      • Two (2) dinners and six (6) breakfasts
      • Professionally planned OETA route
      • Ride with GPS route files
      • Parking in the starting town for the duration of the tour
      • Multiple daily rest stops with discounts at local establishments for coffee, snacks, fluids, and restroom access
      • Daily luggage transfer between overnight locations
      • On-route SAG and staff support
      • Tour Leaders with knowledge about local community attractions and amenities
      • Your tour includes a full one-year membership to Columbus Outdoor Pursuits.  This opens the door to a year of organized rides, social events, and a network of enthusiasts who share your passion for the outdoors. 

      Participants only need to carry what they need for each day’s ride — we handle the rest.

      Your Registration Fee Does Not Include

      • Meals other than the eight (8) provided. You’re responsible for on-route lunches and several dinners.

      • Merchandise (jerseys, T-shirts, etc.)

      • Bringing your personal vehicle to each overnight location

      • Ambulance or medical transport

      • Entrance fees for attractions or optional activities beyond the Millersburg Amish Tour Dinner and Ariel Foundation Park Tour

      A Note on Support

      OETA is fully supported, but it is not an all-inclusive vacation package beyond what’s specified above.

        Accomodations

        Each overnight location has been selected to balance comfort, convenience, and proximity to the Ohio to Erie Trail.

        Milford · Day 1

        • Tru By Hilton Milford Cincinnati; 951 Chamber Dr, Milford, OH 45150 

          Milford · Day 2

          • Tru By Hilton Milford Cincinnati; 951 Chamber Dr, Milford, OH 45150 

          Cedarville · Day 3

          • Hearthstone Inn & Suites; 10 South Main Street, Cedarville, OH 45314 

          Columbus · Day 4

          • Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus; 2700 Corporate Exchange Dr, Columbus, OH 43231 

            Mount Vernon · Day 5

            • Comfort Inn Mount Vernon; 150 Howard St, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 

              Millersburg · Day 6

              • Comfort Inn Millersburg; 1102 Glen Drive, Millersburg, OH 44654 

                Akron · Day 7

                • Courtyard by Marriott Akron Downtown; 41 Furnace St, Akron, OH 44308 

                     

                    2026 Tour Date, Registration, and Pricing

                    Full Tour – September 19–25, 2026

                    7 Days · 7 Nights – $2,300 (double occupancy) / $2,975 (single occupancy)

                    Hotel lodging begins Friday, Sept. 18 – the night before tour launch

                    Registration will include lodging, daily luggage transfer, on-route support, rest stops, eight (8) meals, special tour attractions, and Outdoor Pursuits staff coordination throughout the tour.

                    Half Tour Cincinnati to Columbus – September 19–21, 2026

                    3 Days · 3 Nights – $950 (double occupancy) / $1,175 (single occupancy)

                    Hotel lodging begins Friday, Sept. 18 – the night before tour launch

                    Registration will include lodging, daily luggage transfer, on-route support, rest stops, four (4) meals,  and Outdoor Pursuits staff coordination throughout the tour.

                    Half Tour Columbus to Cleveland – September 21–25, 2026

                    4 Days · 3 Nights – $1,400 (double occupancy) / $1,750 (single occupancy)

                    Hotel lodging begins Tuesday Sept 22nd in Mt. Vernon, OH at the end of first day – Lodging the night before the Tuesday start is on your own if needed.

                    Registration will include lodging, daily luggage transfer, on-route support, rest stops, five (5) meals, special tour attractions, and Outdoor Pursuits staff coordination throughout the tour.

                    Optional Shuttle Service

                    Full Tour Shuttle – Cleveland → Cincinnati (Post-Tour Return)
                    $200 per person

                    Half Tour Shuttles – either Columbus -> Cincinnati (pre tour) or Cleveland → Columbus (Post-Tour Return)
                    $100 per person

                    Includes:

                    • Passenger transportation

                    • Bicycle transport

                    • Luggage transport

                    Advance registration required. Space may be limited.

                    Cancellation & Deferral Policy

                    We understand that plans can change. Our policies are designed to be fair to both riders and Outdoor Pursuits as we secure lodging and logistics well in advance.

                    Refund Policy

                    • Refunds (less a $100 processing fee) are available up to 60 days prior to the tour start date.

                    Deferral Policy

                    • Registration may be deferred to a future OETA tour at no cost if requested 60 days prior to the tour.

                    Within 60 Days of Tour Start

                    • Cancellations within 60 days of the event are non-refundable.

                    • Registration may be considered a donation to Columbus Outdoor Pursuits, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

                    • Deferral requests may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

                    Bicycle Considerations

                    Choosing the Right Bike

                    The Ohio to Erie Trail can be ridden on several types of bicycles. The best choice depends on your comfort, riding style, and goals for the week.

                    Hybrid Bikes

                    A popular and versatile option.

                    • Comfortable upright riding position

                    • Suitable for pavement and light gravel

                    • Ideal for riders who want stability and flexibility

                    • Recommended tire width: 28mm or wider

                    Great for riders who value comfort and confidence over speed.

                    Touring Bikes

                    Built specifically for long-distance riding.

                    • Stable and durable frame design

                    • Designed for multi-day terrain variety

                    • Mounting points for racks and bags

                    • Comfortable geometry for long hours in the saddle

                    An excellent option if you prefer a purpose-built endurance bike.

                    Road Bikes

                    Lightweight and efficient.

                    • Best suited for paved sections

                    • Capable on well-maintained gravel

                    • Ideal for riders who prioritize speed and efficiency

                    • Recommended tire width: 28mm or wider

                    With modern wider tires, many road bikes perform very well on the Ohio to Erie Trail.

                    E-Bikes

                    An increasingly popular choice.

                    • Pedal-assist makes longer distances more manageable

                    • Helpful for riders recovering from injury or building endurance

                    • Ensure your battery range matches daily mileage

                    • Bring your charger each night

                    E-bikes are welcome and fully supported on OETA.

                    Fit & Comfort Matter Most

                    Regardless of bike type, comfort is key for multi-day riding. Consider:

                    • Proper bike fit

                    • Saddle comfort

                    • Handlebar style and position

                    • Tire width and pressure

                    If possible, ride your setup for several longer days before the tour.

                    Support & SAG

                    OETA is fully supported by Outdoor Pursuits.

                    Participants only need to carry what they need for the day.

                    Support includes:

                    • Daily luggage transfer between hotels

                    • On-route SAG vehicle

                    • Mechanical assistance

                    • Outdoor Pursuits staff support

                    • Rest stops approximately every 15 miles with water and snacks

                    Weather Considerations

                    Ohio to Erie Trail Adventure · September

                    September is one of the best months to ride across Ohio. Expect comfortable daytime temperatures, cooler evenings, and the early signs of fall color throughout the state.

                    What to Expect

                    Temperatures (Statewide)

                    • Average Highs: 70–75°F

                    • Average Lows: 48–55°F

                    • Northern Ohio (Cleveland region) tends to be slightly cooler, especially in the mornings.

                    Typical Conditions

                    • Crisp mornings and mild afternoons

                    • Lower humidity than summer months

                    • Occasional rain showers

                    • Early fall foliage beginning to appear, especially in northern sections

                    Packing Tips

                    Layering is key. We recommend:

                    • Lightweight long sleeve or arm warmers for cool starts

                    • Packable rain jacket

                    • Extra base layer for evenings

                    • Light gloves for early morning departures

                    Weather can vary across Ohio from north to south, so checking the forecast a few days before departure is always encouraged.

                    With thoughtful preparation, September offers ideal riding conditions and some of the most scenic stretches of the year on the Ohio to Erie Trail.

                    Suggested Packing List

                    Ohio to Erie Trail Adventure

                    This list is a starting point — adjust based on your riding style, comfort preferences, and weather forecast.

                    Bike & Riding Gear

                    • Roadworthy bicycle (recent tune-up recommended)

                    • E-bike charger (if applicable)

                    • Helmet (required)

                    • Cycling gloves

                    • Cycling shoes

                    • Riding shorts or bibs

                    • Jerseys or preferred riding tops

                    • Spare tubes

                    • Tire levers & flat repair tools

                    • Mini pump or CO₂ inflator

                    • Front & rear lights

                    • Bike lock

                    Personal Essentials

                    • ID

                    • Health insurance card

                    • Cash and/or credit card

                    • Phone + charger

                    • Any prescription medications

                    • Sunscreen & lip balm

                    Clothing

                    • Off-bike clothing for evenings and downtime

                    • Comfortable sleepwear

                    • Undergarments & socks

                    • Lightweight jacket or hoodie

                    • Swimsuit (some hotels may offer pool access)

                    Plan for layering — September mornings can be cool, with warmer afternoons.

                    Toiletries & Comfort Items

                    • Toiletry kit

                    • Towel

                    • Personal care items

                    • Any preferred recovery tools

                    Outdoor-Pursuits