While road trips usually involve hours of preparation in the car, why not try cycling through smaller towns where the rural scenery can give you a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? There's no better way to discover hidden treasures and take the road less traveled than by traveling by rail. When you're in Ohio, there are a couple of options – be it nearly 100 miles of North Coast Inland Trail rail trail or over 1,400 miles of the Buckeye Trail. If this seems too difficult for you, you can start small. Conotton Creek Trail in northeast Ohio. This trail is only about 18.4 miles long and takes you through four small towns in northern Harrison County.
original route you'll take on the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, which transported iron ore from the Great Lakes to mills in the Ohio River Valley. This line was important in the history of the county's coal mining industry. Because the trail also passes close to the foothills of the Appalachian region, you'll see scenic views of forests, farmland, and a variety of wildlife.
You'll also see Conotton Creek, a stream that leads to the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers and where the trail's name comes from. The Connotton Creek Trail covers the town of Bowerston, passes through Connotton and Sayo, and ends in Jewett. Each city has its own charms and communities worth exploring. Whether you're just stopping for a bite to eat, buying something to bring home, or delving deeper into the history of the area, each of these stops along this rail route has something to discover.
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What you need to know about the Conotton Creek Trail
The Connotton Creek Trail is a multi-use trail that is open year-round. It is open to cycling, walking and even rollerblading. However, the area has uneven and rough terrain that can be challenging for those who prefer to walk (or roller skate). It's still a mostly paved journey and can be completed in just half a day. According to opinion, for those who hike or walk, this is considered an easy hike. AllTrailswhile cyclists should expect to ride at a moderate pace. You can start with either Bowerston or Jewett. There are parking areas at both ends of the trail, but the starting point in Jewett is no longer accessible. large parking.
For those starting from the east at Bowerston, the trail is slightly uphill, but previous riders have noted that the ride is generally smooth. And be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as some sections of the trail are open and have limited shade. Other areas have benches and shaded seating areas. In total, seven shelters, 50 benches and three porta-potties can be found along the trail. Ohio State website. If you're looking for your next rail trail, the Conotton Creek Trail is also part of The Great American Rail Trail offers over 2,000 miles of scenic, car-free adventure..
Explore the Conotton Creek Trail
The ride along the trail itself is quite relaxed and leisurely. Along the way, as the trail passes through wetlands, you may see plenty of wildlife such as ducks, geese, and deer. The route will especially appeal to ornithologists, as TrailLink There are reportedly over 40 birdhouses in the Bowerston area alone. You'll also pass five covered bridges along the way. It's also a great place to watch fall foliage.
Stop and rest in Schio, halfway along the route, where you can visit some local gems. Here you'll find one of five covered bridges, as well as places like the Sayo Historical Museum. Stores like Tater Ridge Farms Marketplace offer several souvenir options as well as a collection of furniture and home decor. If you're here during the summer season, don't miss the ice cream spot that most riders love at the B&F Dairy Bar.
Once you reach the end of the trail in Jewett, you can continue your adventure at nearby outdoor recreation areas. Less than 10 minutes north, you can trade your bike for a horse with a ride along the trail at Faith Ranch. Not far from Jewett you'll also find Harrison State Forest with plenty of bridle and hiking trails, fishing and camping. Or if you end up in Bowerston you can drive to Akron, an under-the-radar city in Ohio, is full of urban and outdoor fun.just an hour away.
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