The best traffic-free bike rides around Mount Vernon

The Kokosing Gap Trailhead – Bridge of Dreams loop offers a delightful road cycling adventure through Ohio's scenic countryside. You'll pedal past charming family farms, through peaceful wooded areas, and alongside the meandering Kokosing River, often catching glimpses of local wildlife like deer and wild turkeys. The route's crown jewel is the iconic Bridge of Dreams, a historic covered bridge that provides a picturesque crossing over the Mohican River, making for a truly memorable experience.

This moderate 46.5-mile (74.8 km) loop, with its 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. Starting from Mount Vernon, you'll find convenient parking and amenities at the trailhead. While the Kokosing Gap Trail section is mostly smooth asphalt, be aware that some parts of the Mohican Valley Trail may feature chip and seal or even rolling gravel, so plan your tire choice accordingly.

This route is a fantastic way to explore the rich railroad history of the region, with restored bridges and an old locomotive visible along the way. It seamlessly connects the Kokosing Gap Trail and the Mohican Valley Trail, both integral parts of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail system. The diverse scenery, from river valleys to agricultural fields, makes it one of the most popular cycling trails in Knox County, Ohio.

This road cycling route, named the "Start/End of Sandel Legacy Trail – Sunbury loop from Mount Vernon," offers a substantial ride through the Ohio countryside. While the name might suggest a direct connection to the Sandel Legacy Trail, the route primarily explores the roads around Sunbury and the broader Mount Vernon area, providing a diverse cycling experience. You'll encounter a mix of rural landscapes, passing through farmlands and small towns, with the potential to link up with segments of the paved Sandel Legacy Trail. It's a moderate 47.1-mile (75.7 km) journey with 676 feet (206 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a longer, varied ride. Expect a blend of flat trail sections and rolling road terrain.

To tackle this extensive loop, plan to start your ride early, especially if you're cycling during the warmer seasons, to make the most of cooler temperatures and lighter traffic. While the Sandel Legacy Trail has a known trailhead in Sunbury, this longer route will involve navigating local roads, so a reliable GPS device is recommended. Ensure you carry ample water and nutrition, as services might be spread out along the rural stretches. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for this ride, with comfortable temperatures and scenic views.

This route provides a unique opportunity to explore the region's cycling potential, connecting you to parts of the ambitious Ohio to Erie Trail project via the Sandel Legacy Trail. Beyond the cycling, you might find local points of interest, such as the model railroad club near the Sunbury trailhead, offering a glimpse into local history and community. The route serves as a good test of endurance and navigation for road cyclists looking to discover the less-traveled paths and rural charm of the Mount Vernon area.

The Kokosing Gap Trailhead loop from Mount Vernon offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through a tapestry of Ohio's rural beauty. You'll glide along smooth asphalt, passing through serene wooded areas, expansive farmlands, and wetlands, with the Kokosing River often in view. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and wild turkeys, and enjoy the impressive railroad bridges that span the river, providing excellent viewpoints of the natural surroundings.

This moderate 32.4-mile (52.2 km) loop, with its 1092 feet (333 metres) of elevation gain, is typically a 2-hour and 44-minute ride, making it accessible for many cyclists. Trailheads in towns like Mount Vernon, Gambier, and Danville offer convenient parking, restrooms, and even bike repair stations. While mostly flat, some gradual inclines add a gentle challenge, and it's worth noting that a one-mile connecting section is currently under construction.

Beyond the scenic ride, the Kokosing Gap Trail is steeped in railroad history, evidenced by a restored 1940 Alco locomotive and a 1924 Chesapeake & Ohio caboose in Gambier. It's also a central part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail, allowing for extended adventures, and is notably maintained entirely by volunteers. The trail's diverse landscape, from cornfields to the Kenyon College campus, ensures a rich and engaging journey.