Tips
January 11, 2024
Cycling
January 24, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cascade Valley Metropark
5.0
(1)
32
riders
48.6km
03:01
110m
110m
The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience, blending historical significance with diverse natural and urban scenery. You'll follow the historic route where mules once pulled canal boats, passing well-preserved locks and lockhouses, and transitioning from cityscapes to the deep forests and open countryside of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with opportunities for wildlife sightings, particularly at Beaver Marsh. The surface varies from paved asphalt to hard-packed crushed limestone and gravel, so a hybrid or mountain bike is recommended for comfort.
This moderate 30.2-mile (48.6 km) route, with a gentle 350 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 3 hours and 1 minute, making it suitable for a relaxed day out. The trail is mostly flat and largely ADA accessible, with over 50 trailheads providing parking and amenities. Many riders find traveling south to north easier due to subtle elevation changes, and the seasonal "Bike Aboard!" program offers a unique return option via train.
The trail's historical significance is paramount, allowing you to literally follow in the footsteps of the past with abundant historical markers and structures. It forms the northernmost section of the larger 326-mile Ohio to Erie Trail, providing a glimpse into a much grander cycling adventure. Quaint historical towns like Peninsula dot the route, offering charming stops for amenities and a deeper dive into local history.
4.4
(10)
41
riders
34.7km
02:04
190m
190m
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.
5.0
(4)
46
riders
46.1km
02:58
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 230 m
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