The best gravel rides in Holmes County

The Covered Bridge – Bridge of Dreams loop from Mohican Memorial State Forest offers a truly diverse gravel biking experience, blending rolling gravel roads with paved sections through the scenic Mohican River Valley. You'll navigate shaded woodlands, open farmlands, and pass through Amish country, all while tackling a difficult 68.0-mile (109.5 km) route with a substantial 5422 feet (1653 metres) of elevation gain. The iconic Bridge of Dreams serves as a memorable centerpiece, making this a challenging yet rewarding ride for those seeking a full day on the bike.

Planning your ride requires attention to detail, as this route can take around 7 hours and 26 minutes, or even longer depending on your pace and conditions. Be ready for varied terrain, including potentially muddy spots and large puddles after rain, and be mindful of shared sections with Amish buggies and horses. This is not a beginner route; its difficulty rating means you should have very good fitness and be comfortable with steep, slick gravel climbs.

What makes this loop stand out is the historic Bridge of Dreams itself, a 370-foot covered bridge that was once a railroad bridge and is now the second-longest covered bridge in Ohio. It's a unique multi-use path, shared respectfully by cyclists, hikers, and the local Amish community. This route also forms a part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail network, offering a glimpse into a significant regional trail system.

The Climb loop from Mohican Wilderness Campground offers a deep dive into the scenic Mohican Wilderness, where you'll navigate rolling gravel roads and hard-packed decomposed granite surfaces. This route is defined by its sustained climbs, taking you through extensive forests and river valleys, with glimpses of picturesque features like covered bridges. It's a demanding ride that rewards you with a true sense of accomplishment and immersion in nature.

Planning your ride means preparing for a difficult 27.5-mile (44.3 km) journey with 2696 feet (822 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 19 minutes. The trailhead is conveniently located at Mohican Wilderness Campground, a popular spot. Arriving early is advisable, especially on busy days, to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

This loop is a standout for advanced gravel bikers in Ashland County, known for its emphasis on challenging ascents. The Mohican region itself is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting diverse terrain and stunning vistas, including the Clear Fork Gorge and Lyon's Falls nearby. It's a prime destination for those seeking a rigorous workout within a beautiful natural setting.

The Baddow Pass History Signage loop from Mohican Wilderness Campground offers a demanding gravel biking experience through Ohio's scenic Ashland County. You'll navigate diverse landscapes, from dense forests to wide river valleys, with sections of the Mohican Valley Trail showcasing quiet hills and historical markers. Expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including challenging stretches of chunky gravel and steep climbs that might require you to push your bike. Keep an eye out for the impressive Bridge of Dreams, a notable landmark along the route.

This difficult 23.9-mile (38.5 km) loop features 1847 feet (563 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete. Starting from the Mohican Wilderness Campground provides convenient access to the trailhead. Given the significant elevation changes and varied terrain, ensure you have very good fitness and carry ample water, especially during warmer months. Dry conditions are ideal for tackling this advanced gravel biking route.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route is rich in history, with signage along the trail detailing its past as a Pennsylvania Railroad line. It's part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail, blending a connection to the region's heritage with a robust workout. The Mohican Wilderness area is known for its outdoor activities, making this loop a prime example of the challenging gravel biking trails available.

The Climb loop from Camp Check-In is a demanding gravel biking route that plunges you into dense forests and offers the promise of expansive mountain vistas. You'll navigate a mix of surfaces, from smooth packed dirt to loose gravel and even some rutted sections, with former railroad beds providing a unique historical element to parts of the journey. This difficult 28.4-mile (45.7 km) loop, with its 2094 feet (638 metres) of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance, typically requiring around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete.

To tackle this challenging route, make sure your bike is equipped with high-volume tires, ideally run at lower pressure for better traction and comfort on varied terrain. Given the significant climbing involved, appropriate gearing is essential. As this type of gravel loop often ventures into remote areas, plan for self-sufficiency by carrying plenty of water, food, and repair essentials.

Beyond the physical challenge, this climb loop offers a genuine sense of adventure, leading you through quiet forest roads where stunning views from high elevations are a recurring highlight. It's an excellent route to test your fitness and enjoy the solitude of nature, making it a favorite for those preparing for races or simply seeking a rigorous outdoor experience.