The best road cycling routes around Elyria

The Black River – Black River State Reservation loop offers a unique road cycling experience, blending natural river views with a fascinating glimpse into industrial history. You'll cruise along mostly paved paths, enjoying the serene Black River scenery and crossing impressive bridges, particularly on the Bridgeway Trail. The route also takes a distinctive turn through the slag fields of a former steel mill on the Steel Mill Trail, providing a striking contrast of landscapes. This 21.9-mile (35.3 km) ride, with its 437 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, is generally easy, though a few modest climbs will keep things interesting.

Planning your visit to this popular Black River State Reservation cycling loop is straightforward. The trailhead in Lorain offers convenient parking, though arriving early is advisable on busy days to ensure a spot. The well-maintained, paved surfaces make it a pleasant ride in most conditions, and no special permits or fees are required. It's a great option for a morning or afternoon outing, offering a rewarding experience without extensive planning.

This route stands out for its diverse scenery, showcasing both the natural beauty of the Black River and the industrial heritage of the region. The Black River Reservation is a highly popular park, attracting nearly half a million visitors annually, and this loop highlights why. It's part of a larger network of trails, offering connectivity to other routes like the North Coast Inland Trail for those looking to extend their adventure. Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the grassland areas along the reservation, adding another layer to the experience.

This section of the North Coast Inland Trail offers a delightful road cycling experience, tracing an old railway line through a diverse landscape. You'll glide along a paved asphalt pathway, passing through peaceful rural fields where you might spot horses and cattle, then transitioning into shaded wooded areas. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including cardinals, bluebirds, and various warblers, as you enjoy the trail's mostly flat and straight profile, making it one of the more natural features near Oberlin Depot.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly signed. The charming town of Oberlin provides a perfect mid-ride stop, with shops, restaurants, and the George Abram Pavilion offering restrooms and picnic tables. Be aware that while much of the route is off-road, you will encounter numerous road crossings where caution is advised due to potentially limited sight lines.

This route is part of the larger North Coast Inland Trail system, highlighting its rail-trail heritage. Oberlin itself is a significant landmark, recognized as part of the broader Buckeye Trail and the historic Underground Railroad Route. Further along, Kipton offers a glimpse into the past with a historic marker detailing the Great Kipton Train Wreck of 1891, adding a unique historical dimension to this moderate 38.6-mile (62.1 km) cycling route, which typically takes around 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete with its gentle 343 feet (105 metres) of elevation gain.