The best traffic-free bike rides in Holmes County
4.8
(16)
138
riders
11
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Holmes County traverse a landscape characterized by rolling farmland, lush forests, and open meadows, offering a serene environment for cyclists. The region's primary feature for cycling is the Holmes County Trail, built on an old railroad bed, providing a paved and relatively flat terrain. This allows for comfortable rides through the heart of Amish Country, often alongside horse-drawn buggies. River crossings and picturesque swamplands can also be found on some routes, adding to the diverse natural features.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Holmes County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Kokosing Gap Trailhead – Bridge of Dreams loop from Oak Lodge, an 88.4 miles (142.2 km) trail that takes 8 hours 44 minutes to complete. This route features the notable Bridge of Dreams and offers extensive views of the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Holmes County Trail – Fredericksburg Community Park loop from Killbuck, a moderate 31.8 miles (51.1 km) path. This trail winds through the peaceful Amish Country, offering glimpses of traditional life and scenic rural landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Holmes County Trail – Stairs to Pitmaster pizzeria loop from Fredericksburg, a 19.4 miles (31.2 km) trail leading through the Holmes County Trail, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Holmes County is defined by rolling farmland, the unique Holmes County Trail, and the immersive Amish Country experience. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, flat paths to more challenging, longer loops.
- The routes in Holmes County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 140 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Holmes County's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
22
riders
142km
08:45
840m
840m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
51.1km
03:01
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(5)
14
riders
28.1km
01:34
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
11
riders
31.3km
01:54
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Holmes County
Tips from the Community
This small display has a short write up and a few pictures going over the history and importance of Baddow Pass.
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The Holmes County Trail is a wide, well groomed trail that was built with the Amish community in mind. As such you can expect horse and buggy traffic along the trail, as well as plenty of "evidence" that the horses may leave behind. This isn't usually a problem, but if you're riding during the autumn you'll need to take care to avoid droppings that are covered by leaves.
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Mount Vernon, named after George Washington's famous estate, is a charming small town full of historic buildings. The Woodward Opera House is perhaps the most famous of all, as it is the oldest such Opera House in the USA. Along with the beautiful buildings and parks you'll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and accommodations that invite you to stay a while.
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Take a moment at the trailhead to top up your water and have a look at the historic locomotives.
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The historic stone arch was built in 1874 as a bridge over the old Cleveland, Mt. Vernon, and Delaware Railroad line. If you look closely you can see the signatures left by the masons who shaped the stones and built the bridge.
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This 370-foot covered bridge began as a railroad bridge in the 1920s. It wasn't covered until 1998, at which point it became the second longest covered bridge in Ohio, and the third longest in the USA.
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This small community park is a good place to stop for a rest. It is well shaded and has covered picnic areas and toilets. The small town of Fredericksburg has a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops should you need any supplies.
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Great sandwiches, pizza and ice cream. easy trail access. open 11 to 8 . closed Sunday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Holmes County?
There are 12 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Holmes County featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy rides suitable for families to more challenging long-distance tours.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Holmes County?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Holmes County. The weather is cooler, and the scenery is particularly vibrant, with fresh blooms in spring and stunning fall foliage. The Holmes County Trail is open year-round, so you can enjoy it in any season.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic cycling routes?
Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those utilizing the Holmes County Trail, are built on old railroad beds, offering a smooth, paved, and relatively flat terrain. This makes them ideal for cyclists of all skill levels. You'll cycle through rolling farmland, open meadows, and lush forests, with some routes featuring river crossings and picturesque swamplands.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Holmes County?
Yes, Holmes County offers several family-friendly options due to its generally flat and paved trails. An excellent choice is the Holmes County Trail – Stairs to Pitmaster pizzeria loop from Fredericksburg, which is rated as easy and covers 31 km, perfect for a leisurely family outing.
What unique features will I encounter on the Holmes County Trail?
The Holmes County Trail is unique for its dual-purpose design: one paved lane for cyclists and walkers, and another specifically for Amish buggies and horses. This allows you to experience the fascinating blend of modern recreation and traditional Amish life, often sharing the path with horse-drawn buggies as you cycle through the world's largest Amish community.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the routes?
Absolutely! Many routes pass through charming Amish Country towns like Millersburg, Fredericksburg, and Killbuck, offering opportunities to explore local shops and eateries. A significant landmark is the Bridge of Dreams near Brinkhaven, a historic covered bridge that is a popular stop for cyclists. You might also find roadside stands selling fresh produce and handmade items.
Where can I find parking and access points for the no-traffic trails?
The Holmes County Trail, the primary no-traffic route, offers multiple access points with convenient parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Towns like Fredericksburg, Millersburg, and Killbuck serve as excellent starting points with facilities for cyclists.
Can I rent a bike in Holmes County?
Yes, bike rentals are available in Millersburg, one of the charming towns connected by the Holmes County Trail. This makes it convenient if you're visiting without your own equipment.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Holmes County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful countryside, the unique experience of sharing the trail with Amish buggies, and the well-maintained, relatively flat paths that make for enjoyable, traffic-free cycling.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic touring routes?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Kokosing Gap Trailhead – Bridge of Dreams loop from Oak Lodge is a difficult route spanning over 142 km. Another challenging option is the Baddow Pass History Signage – Bridge of Dreams loop from Nashville, which covers 116 km.
Are there any circular no-traffic routes available?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. For example, the Holmes County Trail – Fredericksburg Community Park loop from Killbuck provides a moderate 51 km loop, allowing you to start and end in the same location.
Are there opportunities to connect to other trails from Holmes County?
Yes, the Holmes County Trail system is part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail, offering potential for extended touring adventures. Additionally, nearby Mohican State Park and the Mohican Valley Multi-Use Trail provide further biking opportunities, including mountain biking for those looking for a different experience.
Most popular routes in Holmes County
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