The best cycling routes in Summit County

Touring cycling in Summit County primarily features gentle terrain along river valleys and historic canal paths. Routes often trace the Ohio & Erie Canal and the Cuyahoga River, passing through wooded areas with minimal significant elevation changes. The landscape provides accessible routes for various cycling abilities.

There are over 85 touring cycling routes available in Summit County, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Summit County offers many easy routes. For instance, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath: Peninsula Loop is an easy 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route that follows the historic canal, perfect for a relaxed ride. There are 36 easy routes in total.

Many routes in Summit County offer loop options. A popular choice is the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail Loop, which is 20.8 miles (33.5 km) and takes you through river valleys and along the canal. Another option is the Boston Trailhead – Cuyahoga River Bridge loop from Botzum, an easy 18.1-mile (29.2 km) route.

Along the routes, you can explore various natural attractions. You might encounter beautiful lakes like Summit Lake or Kendall Lake. The region also features stunning natural monuments such as Brandywine Falls and Blue Hen Falls, as well as the scenic Ledges Overlook.

Yes, for more experienced riders, Summit County offers several challenging routes. An example is the Boston Trailhead – Cuyahoga River Bridge loop from Indigo Lake, a difficult 59.4-mile (95.6 km) route with significant elevation changes. There are 8 difficult routes in total.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Reviewers often praise the gentle terrain, the scenic canal paths, and the peaceful wooded sections that make for an enjoyable ride.

Many routes follow the Cuyahoga River. The Cuyahoga River Bridge – Boston Trailhead loop from Frazee House is a moderate 19.8-mile (31.8 km) route that offers views of the river and connects different communities.

For those looking for a longer ride, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a substantial 30.2-mile (48.6 km) trail that follows the historic canal, offering a flat and scenic journey. Another long option is the Lock 29 – Cuyahoga River Bridge loop from Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a moderate 24.8-mile (39.9 km) route.

The Bike and Hike Trail is a popular moderate 23.0-mile (37.0 km) path that provides a varied experience through natural landscapes and connects different communities within Summit County.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Summit County frequently pass through wooded areas, offering a refreshing and shaded experience. The trails along the Ohio & Erie Canal and Cuyahoga River are known for their natural surroundings.

Yes, the Cascade Valley Metropark – Nice covered bridge loop from Akron Northside is a difficult 51.2-mile (82.3 km) route that includes a picturesque covered bridge, adding a unique point of interest to your ride.