Lock 15 Brewing Company

The Freedom Trail – John Brown Tannery Park loop from Akron Northside offers a moderate touring cycling experience that winds through a mix of urban parklands, river valleys, and green spaces. You'll pedal alongside the Cuyahoga River, through woods and wetlands, and past open meadows, with the historic John Brown Tannery Park serving as a key landmark. This 21.1-mile (33.9 km) route, with its 590 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied landscape for a roughly 2-hour ride.

When planning your visit, consider starting from the Akron Northside, which provides good access to the trail. While specific parking information isn't detailed, you can usually find spots near trail access points in the area. The best time to cycle this route is during mild weather, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the diverse scenery and varied terrain. Always be prepared with water and check local conditions before heading out.

This cycling route is rich in history, particularly around the John Brown Tannery Park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park features a gazebo built from the original tannery, connecting you to the abolitionist John Brown and his role in the Underground Railroad. The Freedom Trail itself is built on a former railroad line, adding another layer of historical context to your ride through this significant region.

The Lock 29 – Cuyahoga River Bridge loop from Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens offers a captivating touring bicycle experience through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You'll pedal alongside the scenic Cuyahoga River, winding through lush riverside forests and past the historic Lock 29, a unique sandstone structure. The route blends paved paths with crushed limestone, providing a diverse surface that keeps things interesting, especially as the seasonal foliage changes.

This moderate 27.7-mile (44.6 km) ride, with 677 feet (206 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 49 minutes. While much of it is smooth, be ready for a section where you might need to carry your bike up some steps, adding to the adventure. Starting from Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, it's a great option for cyclists seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration, though some sections can get muddy after rain.

Beyond the cycling, the route is steeped in history, following the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which preserves the legacy of the canal system. You'll cross the impressive Historic Cuyahoga River Bridge and pass through Peninsula Village, a charming historic town that once served canal travelers. For a unique twist, you can even catch the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad from the Peninsula Depot, offering a shuttle option for cyclists during certain seasons.

This touring cycling route through Cascade Valley Metropark offers a delightful journey through the Cuyahoga River Valley, blending natural beauty with historical charm. You'll pedal past restored meadows and wetlands in the Valley View Area, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like eagles and deer, and enjoy views of the Cuyahoga River. The highlight for many is the chance to experience the area's only remaining covered bridge, the historic Everett Covered Bridge, adding a unique touch to your ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the park connecting to the wider Cascade Valley Metro Park system and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, providing numerous access points. While specific parking for this loop isn't detailed, you'll find parking available within the Metropark. The route is rated moderate, covering 21.6 miles (34.7 km) with a gentle 293 feet (89 metres) of elevation gain, making it a pleasant ride for most cyclists in about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

The park itself has a rich history, with traces of 19th-century industrial development visible alongside its natural beauty. The recent transformation of the Valley View Area from a golf course into a revitalized natural space is a notable ecological achievement, showcasing diverse plant and wildlife species. This route is an excellent way to explore the natural and historical landscape of Akron's Northside.