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.

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.

All overnight accommodations are included with your registration, so there’s no need to book hotels along the route. We’ve selected comfortable, rider-friendly properties that offer convenient access to the Ohio to Erie Trail, nearby restaurants, and local attractions.

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.

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

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