Great Lakes - Tow Path trail

I have a few questions about tow path.

1. I would like to ride a specialized sirus with beefy tires. Does any one think that would be a problem?

2. Any good guides with a detailed map that shows the trail really well and some lodging restraunts along the way?

You can handle the towpath with 28c tires just fine...I've seen others on skinnier, but depending on where you are at there are some rough spots with loose sand/gravel that might be a little hinky.

Can't help you on a decent map...tell me what part of the trail you are riding and I can tell you some places you can stop to eat...lodging is a bit more sketchy and requires jaunts back onto the local roads in most cases.

Anyone know if Stanford Hostel has opened back up again?

I would like to do the whole trail. My plan so far is to start in Akron were I have family go up to Cleveland and either ride back to akron or if Im feeling lazy take the train. After that I have no clue were to stay. Im thinking of being lazy and only cover in about 30 miles a day going south from akron until the end of the trail and 30 miles back north to akron.

I've ridden the trail with 23's. It wasn't easy and I would definitely recommend something in the 30+ range.

As far as lodging goes, there really isn't a whole lot in the valley, but there's a few hotels that line the the rim.

I have a few questions about tow path.

1. I would like to ride a specialized sirus with beefy tires. Does any one think that would be a problem?

2. Any good guides with a detailed map that shows the trail really well and some lodging restraunts along the way?


Contact the Cuyahoga Valley tow path group either through National parks, directly, or via Cleveland metroparks. There are locations on the path, such as the first lock, where they hve maps for purchase for the whole route. The cost is less than 4.00 and it shows the route. In addition, the train system will allow you to carry your bike on it if you desire to utilize it for portions of the route. The charge is 2.50 due to having a bike.

As to lodging there are many cities nearby the route that have lodging close. You have to decide where you are going and the rest is all just about contacting the establishment.

You'll love the path as it is both historical and beautiful.

You can find info here:

http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/ohio-and-erie-canal-towpath-trail.htm

They have a link to an online Towpath Trail Map, and also say that you can purchase the map either at a park visitor center or by contacting the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Here's a whole list of maps for the park; I think the first one is the best:
http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/maps.htm

There's also an interactive map here:
http://www.ohioanderiecanalway.com/Interactive%20Map.aspx

And finally, hooray for riding a sirrus!

hey, depending on when you wanna do it maybe some locals could join you!

This is the path we rode in July from Peninsula to Cleveland and back to Peninsula. Train runs Wednesday through Sunday. Very friendly bike shop in Peninsula called Century Cycles. They could answer any specific questions on a type of bike to ride on it. We saw all types. Great ride!

Can you give me a site for more towpath trails in Ohio? I'm not searching correctly or something. h

CAT, try www.ohiocycling.info (http://www.ohiocycling.info) and look for the ODOT link in rider resourses.

Thank you.