The best cycling routes around Akron

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling adventure, tracing the historic path where mules once pulled canal boats. You'll glide through a diverse landscape, from urban stretches with views of the Cleveland skyline to the serene forests and open countryside of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially around Beaver Marsh, and enjoy the blend of natural beauty and historical remnants that define this unique route.

This moderate 20.8-mile (33.5 km) loop, with a gentle 498 feet (152 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at numerous trailheads, including the Boston Trailhead, and many offer restrooms and water. Hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended due to the varied surfaces, which range from paved to crushed limestone and even some earthen sections.

What makes this trail truly special is its deep connection to Ohio's past, following a route that was vital for commerce between 1827 and 1913. It's also a significant part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail and passes through the stunning Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offering a blend of history and natural exploration. The "Bike Aboard!" program provides a unique way to experience the trail, allowing you to cycle one way and return by scenic train.

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath: Peninsula Loop offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, winding through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You'll glide along a mostly flat, crushed limestone path, enjoying views of the tranquil Cuyahoga River and passing historic canal remnants that tell tales of a bygone era. This 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route, with just 380 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed ride, taking approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete.

For planning your visit, the village of Peninsula provides convenient parking and amenities. The trail is open around the clock within the national park, but remember to bring helmet lights if you're cycling after dark. A fun option is to ride part of the way and catch the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for your return, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

This loop is part of the much larger Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which follows the historic route once used by mules pulling canal boats. Its location within Cuyahoga Valley National Park means you're immersed in a protected natural area, with opportunities to spot wildlife, especially near spots like Beaver Marsh. Don't miss a stop at Szalay's Farm & Market, a popular highlight along the way.

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.

Explore the scenic Cuyahoga River Valley on the Nice covered bridge – Cascade Valley Metropark loop from The Dragon's Mantle, an easy touring bicycle route that promises natural beauty without strenuous effort. You'll pedal through diverse landscapes, from river views to the ecologically restored Valley View Area, where you might spot local wildlife like great blue herons. The trail offers a mix of paved and well-maintained gravel surfaces, making for a pleasant and varied ride.

This 13.7-mile (22.1 km) cycling loop features a gentle 375 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, making it an accessible option for most riders, with an estimated duration of just 1 hour and 23 minutes. Parking is available within Cascade Valley Metropark, and while the route is generally easy, some sections may have uneven terrain. Consider visiting in spring for wildflowers or fall for vibrant foliage, and always check for seasonal conditions.

Cascade Valley Metropark is a gem within the Summit Metro Parks system, offering more than seven miles of trails and historical significance from the 19th-century Cascade Race. This route also provides connections to the broader cycling trails in Summit County, including the Valley Link Trail which links to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, offering opportunities for longer adventures if you wish to extend your ride.