The Ohio Erie Trail Adventure (OETA)

The Columbus Outdoor Pursuits 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. The Fall Tour Dates are October 5-12, 2024.

Cincinnati, Ohio (0 Miles)

Description: We will gather in the late afternoon at our host hotel in Cincinnati. After a friendly orientation meeting, we will enjoy a group dinner. If you arrive early, take a stroll to Smale Riverfront Park, our starting point for the Ohio to Erie Trail adventure.

Highlights: Orientation, Smale Riverfront Park.

Cincinnati to Xenia (68 Miles)

Description: After a hearty breakfast, we will ride as a group to dip our back tires in the Ohio River at Smale Park. Our route begins from OTET’s southern terminus, heading toward Xenia.

Highlights: Ohio River Trail, Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park, Lunken Airport Trail, Little Miami Scenic Trail.

Xenia to Columbus (52 Miles)

Description: Today’s ride takes us through the South-Central region, passing through Greene, Clark, Madison, and Franklin counties. The terrain is flat, and we will follow well-marked street routes.

Highlights: Little Miami Scenic Trail, Prairie Grass Trail, Roberts Pass, Camp Chase Trail, Lower Scioto Greenway.

Columbus to Mt. Vernon (52 Miles)

Description: Starting on the Downtown Connector, we will join the urban Alum Creek Trail. Our overnight stay in beautiful Mount Vernon Square allows time to explore the Ariel-Foundation Park.

Highlights: Alum Creek Trail, Centerburg, Ariel-Foundation Park.

Mt. Vernon to Millersburg (42 Miles)

Description: Passing through Howard and Danville, we will join the Mohican Valley Trail to the Bridge of Dreams—a 370-foot covered bridge. Today, we will experience the Amish Country.

Highlights: Mohican Valley Trail, Bridge of Dreams, Amish Country.

Millersburg to Massillon (38 Miles)

Description: Riding alongside horse-drawn buggies, we will continue through the Amish Country. The route includes beautiful rural roads and the Ohio & Erie Canal towpath.

Highlights: Ohio & Erie Canal towpath, Tuscarawas River.

Massillon to Rockside Road (58 Miles)

Description: Continuing the OTET/O&E Canal towpath, we will pass through historic Canal Fulton. As we approach Akron, we will visit the Summit Lake Nature Center.

Highlights: OTET/O&E Canal towpath, Canal Fulton, Summit Lake Nature Center.

Rockside Road to Cleveland and Edgewater Park on Lake Erie (20 Miles)

Description: Our final riding day is a short 20 miles to Lake Erie. At Edgewater Park, we will dip our front tires into the lake—the northern terminus of the Ohio to Erie Trail. Afterward, a shuttle will take us back to Cincinnati, where we will bid farewell to our new friends.

Highlights: Lake Erie, Edgewater Park, farewell with new friends.

About OETA

The Columbus Outdoor Pursuits Ohio Erie Trail Adventure (OETA) is a 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. Here are some more facts about this incredible trail:

Trail Type: The Ohio to Erie Trail is a dedicated multi-use trail that goes across the state of Ohio from southwest to northeast. It covers 326 miles (525 km) of regional parks, nature preserves, and rural woodland.

Surface: 83 percent of the trail is made up of off-street trails with hard gravel or paved surfaces. This makes it great for bike touring and other outdoor activities.

Parks and Natural Beauty: Much of the OTEA goes through scenic areas such as Little Miami State Park and includes at least 20 miles within Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Start and End Points: Your journey starts by dipping your back tires in the Ohio River under Cincinnati’s historic Roebling Suspension Bridge in Smale Park. You will then travel northward, enjoying the beautiful landscapes, until you reach Lake Erie. There, you will dip your front tires in the water at Edgewater Park in Cleveland—this is why it is called “Ohio (river) to (lake) Erie Trail.”

Longest Continuous Bike Path: The Ohio to Erie Trail, also known as Ohio Bike Route 1, is the longest continuous bike path in the state.

Must-see highlights

Cincinnati: Start your journey by dipping your back tires in the Ohio River under the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge in Smale Park. Explore the lively city of Cincinnati before heading northward.

Little Miami State Park: As you bike along the trail, you will pass through the beautiful Little Miami State Park. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Little Miami River and its green surroundings.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: About 20 miles of the OTET go through the stunning Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This park offers diverse landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and the iconic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

Quaint Small Towns: Along the way, you will encounter charming small towns. Consider stopping in places like Yellow Springs, known for its artsy vibe, or Peninsula, where you can explore local shops and eateries.

Bike-Friendly Cafés and Breweries: Look out for bike-friendly cafés and breweries. These spots are ideal for refueling and enjoying a well-deserved break. Try some local treats and chat with fellow cyclists.

Edgewater Park, Cleveland: Your journey ends by dipping your front tires in Lake Erie at Edgewater Park in Cleveland. Take in the views of the lake, relax on the beach, and celebrate your accomplishment!

For all the latest updates and information on the trail, the Ohio to Erie Trail organization is your go-to resource.

Tour Dates and Pricing

May 11-18, 2024, $1195 (7 days – 6 nights)

October 5-12, 2024, $1195 (7 days – 6 nights)

The registration fee depends on when you sign up. It is $1,195 until March 3, 2024, and $1,295 from March 4, 2024, onwards. The fee includes the welcome dinner on the first night, luggage transportation, SAG support/bike mechanic, daily sheet, and tour assistance. Participants only need to carry what they need for the day. There will be support stops every 15 miles with water and snacks.

You will need to pay an extra $120 if you want a ride back to Cincinnati after the trip. We will collect that when you register. This covers you, your bike, and your bags.

If you do not need the ride back and have someone else picking you up in Cleveland, Edgewater Park is a good spot to meet them.

Cancellation Charges:

Rider cancellation charge: $150.00 until March 3, 2024 (Spring OETA) or August 1, 2024 (Fall OETA)

Cancellations after those dates – all fees will be considered either a donation to Columbus Outdoor Pursuits 501(c)(3) or discussed for a future event.

Accomodations

Accommodation:

Participants pay for their food and lodging at hotels with special rates. After registering, you will receive the specific hotel details and OETA discount codes. OETA will host a welcome banquet dinner on Friday night, May 10th, or October 4th. Our tour is one of the most affordable hotel-lodging/full-service tours on the trail, considering the cost of hotel rooms. We have learned that many of our participants appreciate our lodging model, as it gives them the option to stay with family or friends on any night along the way!

Bicycle Considerations

Several bikes are good for the Ohio to Erie Trail, depending on what you like and how you feel. Here are some tips:

Hybrid Bikes: These bikes are comfortable and flexible. They work well on both pavement and gravel. They are good for riders who want some road and some off-road features. Tires of 28 mm or more are good.

Touring Bikes: Touring bikes are made for long rides and different terrains. They are stable, and strong, and often have places to attach racks and bags. If you need to carry stuff, a touring bike is a good option.

Road Bikes: Road bikes are best for smooth pavement, but they can also do well on good gravel trails. If you like speed and ease, a road bike with wide tires (around 28 mm or more) can do the job for the Ohio to Erie Trail.

E-Bikes: Electric bikes (e-bikes) are more common. They help you pedal, making long distances easier. Just make sure the e-bike’s battery can last for your daily distance.

Comfort is important, especially for long rides. Think about things like seat comfort, handlebar type, and overall size. Try and ride different bikes to find the best one for you.

SAG (Support and Gear):

The tour is fully supported with a luggage/bike vehicle, mechanic, and Outdoor Pursuits staff. Participants only need to carry what they will need for the day. Support stops are about every 15 miles with water and snacks.

Weather Considerations

Ohio to Erie Trail (OTET) Weather Considerations for May and October:

When planning your Ohio to Erie Trail adventure, consider the following weather patterns for May and October:

May:

Southern Ohio (Cincinnati, Xenia, Columbus, Massillon): Temperatures range from a pleasant average high of 72°F to a comfortable average low of 51-53°F. Expect occasional rain showers and comfortable humidity.

Central Ohio (Mt. Vernon): Like southern Ohio but slightly cooler, with an average high of 71°F and an average low of 50°F.

Northern Ohio (Millersburg, Cleveland): Temperatures are cooler, especially in Cleveland due to its proximity to Lake Erie. Expect average highs of 70°F in Millersburg and 68°F in Cleveland, with average lows of 49°F. Humidity is lower in this region.

October:

Statewide: Temperatures drop significantly in October, ranging from average highs of 62-65°F to average lows of 42-45°F. The northernmost cities, like Cleveland, tend to be the coolest. Expect crisp, clear days with colorful fall foliage.

Additional Weather Notes:

Spring (May) weather in Ohio is mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for cycling.

Fall (October) offers cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery but be sure to pack layers to accommodate for varying conditions.

It is always recommended to check the specific weather forecast closer to your travel dates for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

By planning accordingly and packing appropriate gear for the expected weather conditions, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the Ohio to Erie Trail.