The best cycling routes in Tuscarawas County

Tuscarawas County offers a variety of touring cycling routes, with komoot featuring 6 distinct tours. These include 4 easy routes and 2 moderate routes, catering to different skill levels.

For an easy and scenic ride, consider the Large Sycamore loop from McDonnell Trailhead, which is 14.7 miles (23.6 km) long. Another great option is the Picnic Pavilion loop from Zoarville, covering 16.1 km. These routes are generally flat and suitable for a relaxed cycling experience, often utilizing sections of the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

Yes, for a more challenging experience with significant elevation changes, the Camp Tuscazoar – Creekside Ickys trail loop from Stone Memorial Lodge is a moderate 8.3 miles (13.4 km) route. It winds through wooded hills and valleys, offering a more demanding ride compared to the flatter canal trails.

Tuscarawas County offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find generally flat, crushed limestone paths along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, ideal for accessible cycling. However, the region also features forested hills and valleys, providing routes with rolling hills and more challenging elevation changes, particularly around areas like Camp Tuscazoar.

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is an excellent choice for family-friendly cycling. Its generally flat, crushed limestone surface makes it accessible for all ages and skill levels. Many of the easy routes in the county, such as the Large Sycamore – Canal Street Diner loop from Navarre, incorporate sections of this historic trail.

The region is rich in natural beauty. The Tuscarawas River meanders through the area, offering picturesque views alongside many trails. For a notable natural attraction, Dundee Falls, located within the Beach City Wildlife Area, showcases beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on all touring routes, the scenic landscapes of forested hills and valleys are a constant feature.

Cyclists can explore several historical landmarks, especially along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Notable sites include Fort Laurens Museum and the historic Zoar Village, both offering insights into the region's past. You'll also encounter numerous canal locks, remnants of the area's canal history.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Tuscarawas County are designed as loops. For instance, the Large Sycamore – Canal Street Diner loop from McDonnell Trailhead is a moderate 26.2 miles (42.2 km) loop. Another option is the Canal Street Diner – Large Sycamore loop from Zoar, an easy 31.4 km loop.

The touring cycling routes in Tuscarawas County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the serene countryside and flat canal paths to the more challenging wooded hills, and the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks.

Absolutely. Beyond cycling, Tuscarawas County offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the Tuscarawas River, explore the scenic Dundee Falls, or visit parks like Atwood Lake Park, which features over four miles of trails and a dog park, and Tuscora Park for family-friendly amenities.

Tuscarawas County's picturesque landscapes, with forested hills and valleys, make it appealing for touring cycling throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn showcasing vibrant foliage. The generally flat sections of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail are enjoyable in most conditions.

While this guide focuses on touring cycling, areas like Camp Tuscazoar are known for offering an array of mountain biking routes. These trails are designed for both novice and experienced riders, complete with challenging climbs and technical sections, providing a different kind of cycling experience in the county.