The best traffic-free bike rides in Strouds Run State Park

There are 7 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in and around Strouds Run State Park. Most of these, 5 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels.

Yes, Strouds Run State Park offers several easy, car-free options. For a shorter, pleasant ride, consider the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway loop from Athens, which is just under 6 km. Another great easy option is the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway loop from Athens Community Center Terminal, spanning nearly 10 km.

The park's hardwood forests offer beautiful seasonal displays. Spring brings flowering dogwood, redbud, and wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. These seasons generally provide pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summer can be warm, but the shade of the dense forests helps. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, but cycling conditions may vary.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes are designed as loops. For example, the The Plains Preserve Pathway – Hockhocking Adena Bikeway loop from Strouds Ridge Preserve COAD Tract offers a substantial 26.5 km circular ride. Another option is the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway – Athens County Courthouse loop from The Plains, which is about 17.6 km.

While Strouds Run State Park itself is known for rugged, hilly terrain, the designated no traffic touring cycling routes often utilize smoother, less technical paths like the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway. This bikeway is a rail-trail, generally offering a flatter, paved surface suitable for touring bikes. Some routes might incorporate short sections of roadway or mixed-surface trails around Dow Lake.

Yes, for those looking for a bit more challenge, there is one moderate route available: the Salt Works Trail – Coal Train Trail loop from Chauncey. This route covers approximately 13.7 km and features more significant elevation changes compared to the easy routes.

The routes often pass through dense hardwood forests, offering views of seasonal flora and fauna. Dow Lake, a central feature of the park, provides scenic water views and opportunities for birdwatching. You might also encounter sandstone bluffs and rock outcroppings characteristic of the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau. While specific highlights are not detailed for these routes, the natural beauty of the park is a constant companion.

Yes, the park offers several easy, no traffic routes that are well-suited for families. The shorter loops on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, such as the 5.8 km Hockhocking Adena Bikeway loop from Athens, are excellent choices for families with children or those seeking a relaxed ride.

Parking is generally available at various access points to the park and connecting trails. For routes utilizing the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, you can often find parking near trailheads in Athens or The Plains, such as at the Athens Community Center Terminal or near Strouds Ridge Preserve COAD Tract, depending on your chosen starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free nature of the routes, the scenic beauty of the forests and Dow Lake, and the accessibility of the well-maintained bikeway for a relaxing touring experience.

While Strouds Run State Park generally allows dogs on trails, it's always best to check specific trail regulations for the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway and other multi-use paths. Dogs are typically required to be on a leash. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural environment for everyone.