The best cycling routes around Akron

Akron offers a selection of 8 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes, 1 moderate route, and 1 difficult route, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.

The touring cycling routes around Akron feature diverse terrains. You'll encounter mostly flat paths, with surfaces ranging from asphalt to crushed limestone, especially on trails like the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail. Some routes may also include gravel sections and rolling hills, particularly within areas like Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Summit Metro Parks.

Yes, Akron is very welcoming for beginner touring cyclists. Many routes are classified as easy, such as the Bike loop from East Cocalico Township, which covers 7.8 miles with minimal elevation gain. The Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail is also an excellent choice, known for its mostly flat and easy-to-moderate terrain.

For those seeking longer rides, the region offers several options. The Gravel road loop from Ephrata is a moderate 30.2-mile route. Additionally, the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail extends over 90 continuous miles, providing ample opportunity for extended touring, with plans for a 101-mile completion.

Yes, there are several circular routes for touring cyclists. Examples include the Gravel section – Warwick to Ephrata Rail-Trail loop from Lititz, which is 9.9 miles long, and the Warwick-to-Ephrata Rail-Trail – Heatherwood Bike Park loop from Ephrata, a 5.8-mile option.

Akron's touring cycling routes offer access to beautiful natural features and historic sites. Within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you can visit the stunning Brandywine Falls or explore The Ledges Trail for impressive sandstone cliffs. Along the routes, you might also encounter historic covered bridges like Hunsecker's Mill Covered Bridge and Pinetown Amish Covered Bridge, or the charming settlement of Lititz.

Yes, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique 'Bike Aboard!' program, allowing cyclists to ride one way on the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail and take the train back. This is a great option for extending your ride or for one-way touring adventures. You can find more information on their website or the National Park Service website: nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/bike.htm.

Many of Akron's multi-use trails are ideal for families. The Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail, with its mostly flat and crushed limestone surface, is very popular. The Summit Metro Parks' Bike & Hike Trail, a 34-mile paved path, also provides a safe and enjoyable experience for cyclists of all ages.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the multi-use trails in the Akron area, including the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail and trails within Summit Metro Parks, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before you go to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The touring cycling routes in Akron are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of multi-use trails, the scenic beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and the historical significance of routes like the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail.

Numerous trailheads and park entrances throughout the region offer dedicated parking for cyclists. For trails within Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Summit Metro Parks, you'll find well-marked parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific park or trail website for detailed parking information before your visit. You can find general information about trails and parking on the Visit Akron-Summit website: visitakron-summit.org.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Akron. The weather is mild, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's wise to plan rides for cooler parts of the day to avoid peak heat and humidity.