Ready, Set, Lets Ride! The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a multipurpose active trail for bicyclists, walkers, runners and, in some places, horseback riders. If you enjoy the outdoors, an active lifestyle, natural offerings and just peace of mind, come here. Towpath Trail begins in the city of Massillon and goes north into Cleveland. The trail runs through the Stark County Park District, Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Weekdays are best for avoiding the crowds and feeling the spaciousness of nature. We picked the perfect summer day for a bike ride. We began in Akron at the Mustill Store, on North Street, near where the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad(CVSR) begins or ends, depending on your location. There is ample parking in the adjacent lot. Our plan was to bike one way north and return by CVSR. CVSR offers cyclists boarding & bike loading for the low cost of $ 3 one way.(Runners and hikers are eligible) Beware though, the train technically only loads bikes at Akron Northside, Peninsula and Rockside(lock 39) stations. At the other stations, you have to clearly/actively flag them down or they will pass you by. Be sure to get a schedule for the train so you aren’t left stranded somewhere in the woods. Admittedly, there were a number of park rangers visible to provide information and assistance. When we first started on Towpath, I was somewhat concerned because I didn’t see the tracks. But that was only for the first few miles. The tracks are to the left and the canal is to the right as you are headed north. Along the trail you will see many mile markers, station signs and historical information about the canal area. For your viewing pleasure are forests, fields, flowers, plants, wetlands, bridges and wildlife such as hawks, beavers, herons and frogs. At different points, the trail is either paved, graveled or planked. This is not a difficult ride as the terrain is mostly flat. Bicycle rentals are offered somewhere along the trail. Also, there are many rest stops, some stores and restaurants for eating, drinking and shopping. At one point we saw a farmers market and ice cream shop. As a side note, the restroom facilities are some of the best I have encountered: modern, clean, odor-free, lots of soap and paper products. Yipee! After approximately 3 hours and 27.5 miles of bike riding and another 75 minutes on the train our mission was accomplished. Oh happy trails. Worth toasting to. Must plan another ride soon.
