The best cycling routes around New Franklin

There are 14 touring cycling routes around New Franklin, offering a variety of experiences. These include 6 easy routes and 8 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Touring cycling routes in New Franklin primarily follow the Ohio & Erie Canalway, featuring flat and scenic paths along historic canal towpaths and riverways. The landscape includes river bottom land, open fields, and forested areas, providing varied scenery. The terrain is generally gentle, making it suitable for relaxed touring.

Yes, New Franklin offers several routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Nice covered bridge – Cascade Valley Metropark loop from The Dragon's Mantle is an easy 13.8-mile path that features a covered bridge and traverses parkland, providing a scenic and accessible ride.

The touring cycling routes in New Franklin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 239 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the scenic canal towpaths, river views, and parkland.

Many of the routes along the Ohio & Erie Canalway are family-friendly due to their generally flat and gentle terrain. The Nice covered bridge – Cascade Valley Metropark loop from The Dragon's Mantle is an easy option that families can enjoy together.

Many sections of the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations for any other trails you plan to visit, but generally, the multi-use paths are welcoming to leashed pets.

Yes, there are several circular routes. The Nice covered bridge – Cascade Valley Metropark loop from The Dragon's Mantle and the Canal Fulton Historic Disctrict – St Helena Heritage Park loop from Barberton are popular loop options that allow you to start and end at the same point.

Along the touring cycling routes, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. Highlights include the Fulton Lock (Lock 4) and Historic House on the Ohio & Erie Canal, the serene Summit Lake, and the scenic St Helena Heritage Park. You can also visit Portage Lakes State Park and Lock 4 Park.

The best time to go touring cycling in New Franklin is typically during the spring and fall months. The weather is generally mild, and the natural scenery, especially the fall foliage, is particularly beautiful. Summer can also be pleasant, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

While many routes, particularly the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail, feature a crushed-limestone surface, there are also paved sections and designated bike lanes within the broader Franklin County area of Ohio, offering smooth riding experiences for touring cyclists.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads along the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail and other parks in the New Franklin area. Specific parking lots are often located near popular access points, such as the Franklin Trailhead, making it convenient to start your ride.

For most public multi-use trails in the New Franklin area, including the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail, a permit is typically not required for cycling. However, it's always recommended to check the specific regulations of any state parks or conservation areas you plan to visit, as some may have unique requirements.

Yes, the touring cycling routes often connect to small towns and urban centers, providing opportunities for dining, shopping, and overnight accommodations. You can find cafes, pubs, and lodging options in towns situated along the Ohio & Erie Canalway, such as Canal Fulton or nearby Barberton.