Hiking is incredible in the Greater Cleveland area. Not only is our landscape a treasure trove of biodiversity, but our local, state, and national park systems have done a spectacular job of preserving natural areas in the region. There’s only one path, however, that will boast a jaw-dropping 101 miles of trails once completed. That would be like walking from Cleveland to Columbus – an incredible 1-day 22-hour journey, Google Maps estimates. Along this trail is beauty, nature, and history galore… you must explore at least a mile of this historical trail.
Once upon a time, goods and passengers alike traveled along the Ohio & Erie Canal.
Ken Lund/Flickr From 1827 to 1913, the canal served as an incredible means of transportation. It only ceased operations when a flood destroyed a large majority of it. What we know as the Towpath Trail today was once where mules pulled barges along the canal. A teenage James Garfield once worked as a mule driver on the route that many people hike today.
Though the canal is no longer in use, its story continues as more than two million people visit the Towpath Trail annually.
Jason Morrison/Flickr
The trail starts at Harvard Road, east of Jennings, in the Cleveland Metroparks and stretches south through Summit, Stark, and Tuscarawas Counties.
charpezt/TripAdvisor
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or horseback riding along the trail, you’ll take a journey back in time.
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
You will experience nature in some of the region’s finest parks, including the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cleveland Metroparks, and Summit Metro Parks.
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
With more than 80 miles of trail, 50 trailheads, and plenty of places to park, one could conquer this trail in sections or take it on all at once.
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
Some have walked or biked the entire expanse in just a few days and describe encountering nature, history, and beauty in great abundance.
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
You’ll be surprised that such an expansive urban gem stretches across Northeastern Ohio.
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
Are you ready for a hike you’ll never forget?
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
As you hike this enchanted trail, you’ll find yourself traveling back in time. You will encounter remnants of Ohio’s canal days whether you hike for one mile or all 80. Are you ready to experience this dreamy hike? Lace up your hiking boots and don’t forget a camera – we’d love to see photos of your adventure! Share them with us on our Ohio Nature Lovers Facebook group or on Instagram using #onlyincleveland for a chance to see your photos featured!
Ken Lund/Flickr
From 1827 to 1913, the canal served as an incredible means of transportation. It only ceased operations when a flood destroyed a large majority of it. What we know as the Towpath Trail today was once where mules pulled barges along the canal. A teenage James Garfield once worked as a mule driver on the route that many people hike today.
Jason Morrison/Flickr
charpezt/TripAdvisor
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail/Facebook
For another chance to hike through history, check out these hidden ruins in the Cleveland Metroparks.
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