Ohio Department of Natural Resources 2045 Morse Road Columbus OH 43229 ohiodnr.com

Bob Taft, Governor Sam Speck, Director Trails for Ohioans

A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

Prepared by Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Real Estate and Land Management 2045 Morse Road Columbus OH 43229-6693

April, 2005

Bob Taft, Governor Sam Speck, Director Paul R. Baldridge, Chief REALM William E. Daehler Jr., Recreation Services Administrator REALM Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction Ohio Trails Initiative ...... 2 Purpose and Vision ...... 3 Benefits of Trails ...... 4 Ohio Trail History ...... 5 Public Participation in Ohio Trails Plan ...... 8

Chapter 2 The State of Trails in Ohio Major Findings ...... 9

Chapter 3 Trail Participation and Activities Survey of Ohio Households ...... 12 Trail Activities ...... 16 Walking for Pleasure ...... 17 Jogging/Exercise Running ...... 17 Day Hiking ...... 18 Backpacking ...... 19 Nature Appreciation ...... 19 Bicycling (Hard Surface) ...... 20 Mountain (Off-Road) Bicycling ...... 21 Inline Skating ...... 21 Horseback Riding on Trails ...... 22 Canoeing and Kayaking ...... 23 Cross-Country Skiing ...... 23 Snowmobiling ...... 24 All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Riding ...... 26 Off-Road Motorcycling ...... 27 Four-Wheel Drive Vehicle Riding ...... 29

Chapter 4 Helping Our Trails A Statewide Strategic Approach ...... 32 Connecting Trails ...... 32 User Conflicts on Trails ...... 33 Trail Maintenance ...... 33 Private Land and Trails ...... 34 State Agency Leadership ...... 35 Trails as Transportation Alternatives ...... 36 Trail Information and Education ...... 36 Partnerships ...... 37 Trail Support Facilities ...... 38 Trails Funding ...... 38 Trails Accessible to All ...... 39

iii Chapter 5 Ohio’s Trail System Introduction ...... 42 Trail Names ...... 43 Trail Classifications ...... 43 National Trails ...... 44 North Country National Scenic Trail ...... 44 American Discovery Trail ...... 45 The Underground Railroad ...... 46 Statewide Trails ...... 47 Buckeye Trail ...... 47 Ohio to Erie Trail ...... 48 Regional Assessments Introduction ...... 50 Northeast Ohio ...... 50 Southeast Ohio ...... 60 Southwest Ohio ...... 64 Northwest Ohio ...... 70 Central Ohio ...... 76 Interstate Linkages ...... 80 Potential Trail Corridors ...... 82 Railroad Rights-of-Way ...... 82 Canal Lands ...... 83 Utility Corridors ...... 84 Street/Road Rights-of-Way ...... 85 Riparian Corridors ...... 86 Easements ...... 86

Literature Referenced ...... 89 Appendix A Trail Resources and Library ...... 90 Appendix B Trail Organizations ...... 91

List of Tables Table 3.1 How are Ohioans Using Our Trails? ...... 13 Table 3.2 How Satisfied Are Trail Users With Ohio’s Trails? ...... 14 Table 3.3 What’s Keeping People From Using Ohio’s Trails? ...... 14 Table 3.4 Why Are People Using Ohio’s Trails? ...... 15 Table 3.5 How Long Does It Take Trail Users to Access Our Trails? ...... 15 Table 3.6 Should Future Investments Be Made in Trails? ...... 16 Table 5.1 Existing/Potential Interstate Linkages ...... 80

iv List of Figures Figure 3.1 How Are Ohioans Using Our Trails? ...... 12 Figure 5.1 Ohio Statewide Trail System ...... 43 Figure 5.2 North Country National Scenic Trail ...... 44 Figure 5.3 American Discovery Trail ...... 45 Figure 5.4 Buckeye Trail ...... 47 Figure 5.5 Ohio to Erie Trail ...... 48 Figure 5.6 Northeast Ohio Trail System ...... 51 Figure 5.7 Cuyahoga County Trail ...... 53 Figure 5.8 Stark County Trails ...... 55 Figure 5.9 Summit County Trails ...... 57 Figure 5.10 Southeast Ohio Trails System ...... 61 Figure 5.11 Southwest Ohio Trail System ...... 65 Figure 5.12 Greene County Trails ...... 67 Figure 5.13 Montgomery County Trails ...... 69 Figure 5.14 Northwest Ohio Trail System ...... 71 Figure 5.15 Lucas County Trails ...... 75 Figure 5.16 Central Ohio Trail System ...... 77 Figure 5.17 Interstate Trail Connectors ...... 81 Figure 5.18 Abandoned Railroads ...... 82 Figure 5.19 Ohio’s Historic Canals ...... 83 Figure 5.20 Cross State Buckeye Routes ...... 85 Figure 5.21 On/Off Road Motorized Trail Routes - Southeast Ohio ...... 87

v CHAPTER 1

Introduction 1 Introduction Ohio’s Trail Initiative

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is updating its Trails Plan to help guide the development and expansion of a statewide system of recreational trails throughout Ohio. The plan recognizes the increasing popularity of all types of trail-related activities and envisions a goal of providing an easily accessible trail opportunity within 10 minutes of all Ohioans.

The plan is intended to stimulate a coordinated and strategic approach for creating a system of recreational trails in Ohio by all levels of government and private trail groups and organizations. The ultimate vision of the plan is to link public lands, natural and scenic areas, and communities with a multi-modal trail system. The plan will also serve as a guide for allocating resources from the Clean Ohio Trails Fund (COTF) program, the federal Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and other financial assistance programs that can be used for trail acquisition and development. All trails that are planned and developed in Ohio are part of the statewide trail vision. These include projects that many local governments are undertaking to develop local trail systems to provide recreation and alternate transportation opportunities. The intent of this plan is to emphasize major statewide and regional trails and work to incorporate local linkages into the statewide network.

The citizens of Ohio and the General Assembly recognize a growing interest in trails and the need to foster that interest with a system of trails. That commitment was especially evident in 2000 with support of the Clean Ohio Fund programs.

The groundwork was laid in 2000 with Governor Bob Taft’s proposed Clean Ohio Fund, which included a $25 million earmark for improving Ohio’s system of recreational trails. The Ohio General Assembly voted by an overwhelming bipartisan majority to place this proposal before Ohio voters as State Issue 1 in November 2000. Issue 1 was passed and in July 2001 the legislature spelled out the administrative details of the Clean Ohio Fund’s programs. The legislature noted that funding from the new Clean Ohio Trails program must be in “synchronization with the statewide trails plan.”

Therefore, this updated Ohio Trails Plan was developed to serve as a guide for trail development in the state.

2 CHAPTER 1 Purpose and Vision

The statewide trail system will Trails are an important component of Ohio’s outdoor recreation system. They come in various lengths, run through different en- link to neighboring states, local vironments and accommodate a multitude of outdoor activities and regional trail systems, and from hiking and biking to snowmobiling and horseback riding. places of interest. Trails are managed and maintained by a variety of groups – including all levels of government and numerous trail organiza- tions and groups. Trails are typically found in all types of parks but are increasingly being planned and developed to link com- The system will be multi- munity resources and other places of interest. Trail participation modal, providing opportunities is high in Ohio, with the most popular trail activities being hik- for all recreational trail users. ing, walking and bicycling. However, activities like mountain biking, inline skating, and ATV riding are increasing in popular- ity, placing greater demands on trail providers to increase trail opportunities and reduce conflicts between trail users. The system will provide many benefits, including The Ohio Trails Plan was created to serve as a tool for improv- ing existing trails in the state and to ensure smart planning of improved quality of life, health future trails. The plan identifies statewide issues impacting and fitness opportunities, trails, recommends strategies for addressing these issues, and transportation, economic, sets criteria for future recreational trails in the state. The plan serves as a comprehensive source of information on recreational and environmental benefits. trail participation in the state with suggestions to enhance these activities. Included is a dynamic inventory of major statewide, regional, and community trail systems that will form the basis The system, when complete, for an interconnected statewide network of trails. The plan in- will be accessible with a trail tends to stimulate and support a coordinated approach to creat- ing this network. It will serve as a resource for trail developers, opportunity within 10 minutes builders, managers and advocates. of most Ohioans. Public participation was crucial in developing the Ohio Trails Plan. Public comment was solicited through surveys mailed to Ohio households, meetings with the public as well as interest The system will represent a groups, and at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources web partnership of government site – ohiodnr.com. agencies, trail user groups The Ohio State Trails Plan is a fluid document, changing with and organizations, businesses, time as new trails are developed and additional opportunities community groups, and become available. concerned citizens.

Introduction 3 Benefits of Trails

“Trails have multiple values and their benefits reach far beyond recreation. Trails can enrich the quality of life for individuals, make communities more livable, and protect, nurture, and showcase America’s grandeur by traversing areas of natural beauty, distinctive geography, historic significance, and ecological diversity. Trails are important for the nations’ health, economy, resource protection and education.” – The National Park Service report “Trails for All Americans”

Health/Fitness/Wellness Promoting trails promotes active living. Recent studies and reports document the obesity epidemic in America and increased sedentary lifestyles of Americans. As a result, it is becom- ing increasingly popular for trail advocates and the health community to develop partnerships and innovative approaches to combat this epidemic. Trails, especially close-to-home systems, provide opportunities to integrate physical activity into daily living by offering settings to walk, run, in-line skate and bike during leisure time or for commuting.

Transportation Trails are viable transportation alternatives, linking people and places within communities and providing access to destinations, including work, school, and commerce. Trail systems should be integrated into transportation and land use plans, especially in urban and suburban areas.

Economic Trails can contribute to Ohio’s economy in many ways, but particularly by increasing tourist opportunities. Studies show property values near trails often increase. In addition, trail users support businesses near trails, including lodging, food, supplies and equipment rentals.

Environmental Trails often are built along greenways – linear corridors of open space managed for conserva- tion and/or recreation – providing protected islands of wildlife habitat. Trail corridors also can protect river systems and agricultural lands by providing a buffer and conserving soils. Trails in riparian corridors with significant vegetation and natural features can filter pollut- ants, stabilize stream banks, and provide food for wildlife. Native plants and grasses often are found along trails associated with railroad rights-of-way. Trails also provide opportunities for interpretation where users can learn about natural history.

Civic Image Trails and other quality recreation resources can attract new residents and businesses to an area. A recent survey co-sponsored by the National Association of Homebuilders and the Na- tional Association of Realtors found that trails come in second only to highway access when those surveyed were asked about the importance of community amenities.

4 CHAPTER 1 Ohio Trail History

Trails played a critical role in Ohio’s heritage and development. Before westward expansion, tribes of Native Americans had established well-defined networks of footpaths and trails as hunt- ing and transportation routes. As the United States expanded westward, pioneers and explorers began to use and develop many of these migration routes as components of our early road systems. Corridors in Ohio like the National Road, the Ohio & Erie and Miami & Erie canals, and railroads were subsequently developed and used by settlers as key transportation routes to promote economic development. Today, many of these original corridors are currently being used or have the potential to form a statewide system of recreational trails and greenways.

The timelines that follow present some of the major historical trail related events that have occurred in the United States and in Ohio.

National Trail Milestone Events

1962: Outdoor Recreation Resource Review 1982: The Surface Transportation Act of 1982 is Commission (ORRRC) reports are released passed. This legislation allowed federal high- recognizing the importance of close-to-home way funds to be used by the states for trans- recreational opportunities and simple pleasures portation related bikeways. This legislation of walking and bicycling. Walking for plea- resulted in the construction of more than 50 sure was found to be the nation’s most popular miles of bike paths and lanes in Ohio prior to outdoor recreation activity. the passage of ISTEA. 1966: U.S. Department of the Interior releases the 1983: Congress amends National Trails System Act. “Trails for America” booklet. The depart- Recognizing that liberalized abandonment ment’s Bureau of Outdoor Recreation found procedures would result in increased loss of that walking, hiking and bicycling were activi- railroad corridors for present and future use, ties within the economic reach of all citizens Section 8(d) was added to the National Trails and recommended a nationwide system of System Act. Section 8(d) provides that when trails, including trail networks in metropolitan a public agency or trail group is willing to areas. assume financial, legal and managerial respon- sibility for interim trail use, the Interstate 1968: National Trails System Act (PL 90-543) Commerce Commission “shall impose such passes. This landmark legislation developed a terms and conditions as a requirement of any process to create a network of national scenic transfer or conveyance for interim use in a and historic trails. It also included a mandate manner consistent with this chapter.” to study the feasibility of the North Country National Scenic Trails as a component of the 1985: Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC) is estab- National Trails System. lished. A national nonprofit organization, the RTC works with public agencies and trail 1980: North Country National Scenic Trail is desig- groups to enrich America’s communities and nated (PL-96-199). This legislation added the countryside by creating a nationwide network scenic trail to the National Trails System. The of public trails from former rail lines and con- trail stretches from New York to North Dakota necting corridors. Ohio is fortunate to have a with more than 1,000 miles located in Ohio. local RTC chapter.

Introduction 5 1986: President’s Commission on Americans National Recreation Trails Fund) at signifi- Outdoors report is released. The commis- cantly higher funding levels. sion recommends the creation of “greenways to provide people with access to open spaces close to where they live, and to link together Trail Milestone Events In Ohio the rural and urban spaces in the American landscape.” 1959: Buckeye Trail Association founded. The Buckeye Trail Association is a non-profit 1988: The National Park Service (NPS) establishes volunteer organization that supports and main- the Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance tains the Buckeye Trail, nearly 1300 miles of Program. The park service’s staff works with trail that now encircles the state of Ohio. community groups and government agencies to conserve rivers, preserve open space, and 1972: Amended Substitute Senate Bill 247 passes, develop trails and greenways. giving the Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) authority to “plan 1990: The NPS releases the “Trails for All and administer a statewide system of trails…” Americans” report, which proposes the and “prepare a comprehensive plan for the creation of a nationwide, interconnected trail development of a statewide trail system…” system within easy access of most Americans. The goal was to create a trail opportunity 1975: Ohio Trails, a state trails plan, is published. within 15 minutes of all Americans. The Plan is developed with the assistance of an ad hoc advisory planning committee and 1990: U.S. Supreme Court upholds Section 8(d). In various agencies, clubs, and trail users. The Preseault v. ICC adjacent landowners challenge first Ohio trails plan identifies trail resource the constitutionality of Section 8(d), alleg- needs and roles and responsibilities for meet- ing that it results in a taking of their property ing those needs. without just compensation and violates the Commerce Clause. The Supreme Court holds 1979: ODNR acquires 44+ miles of former Penn that Section 8(d) does not constitute a taking Central railroad. Using a combination of because relief is available under the Tucker Act, federal and state funds, ODNR acquired and which allows landowners with a reversionary eventually developed the Little Miami State interest to sue the United States in U.S. Court Park, one of Ohio’s premier rail-trails. of Federal Claims for compensation. 1986: Recreational trail activity is recognized as 1991: Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency a major trend in outdoor participation in Act (PL102-240) passes. Congress initiated a Ohio, according to the 1986 Ohio Statewide new era in transportation policy with the pas- Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan sage of ISETA, and particularly with a land- and the Governor’s Commission on Ohioans mark provision, Transportation Enhancements, Outdoors. that established a major funding source for 1989: Ohio & Erie Canal Corridor Coalition is estab- rail-trails and other types of bicycle and pedes- lished to work on the potential designation and trian facilities. The act also established the creation of the Ohio & Erie Canal Heritage National Recreation Trails Fund to assist states Corridor. in developing their trail systems. 1989: State owned canal land responsibilities 1998: Congress passes Transportation Equity Act for are transferred to ODNR from the Ohio the 21st Century (PL 105-178). Commonly Department of Administrative Services. referred to as TEA-21, this legislation contin- ODNR is responsible for managing Ohio’s ued the many programs authorized in the act remaining canal lands associated with the Ohio that benefited trails. TEA-21 also reauthorized & Erie Canal and the Miami & Erie Canal. the Recreational Trails Program (formerly the About 20 percent of the original lands are still

6 CHAPTER 1 1991: Ohio to Erie Trail Planning Committee 1998-99: convenes. A diverse planning committee Ohio Greenways Roundtable is convened. comprised of government officials and trail In partnership with the Ohio Parks and advocates meets to plan a cross state trail that Recreation Association, the roundtable is would connect the major urban centers of comprised of various governmental officials, Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati. trail and greenway advocates and produces 1993: The Ohio Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor a “Blueprint for Action,” a strategic plan Recreation Plan recognizes trails and green- to gather resource and funding information ways as a statewide priority. related to greenway development. 1995: The Ohio Chapter of the Rails to Trails 2000: Ohio voters approve Issue 1, a $400 million Conservancy publishes “The Discover Ohio environmental bond issue. Governor Bob Trails System, Ohio Rail-Trail Action Plan.” Taft proposed the Clean Ohio Fund programs, This plan provides recommendations to including $25 million earmarked for recre- expand Ohio’s system of rail trails. ational trails, in his State of the State address. ODNR is charged with administering the $25 1996: ODNR establishes the State Recreational Trail million Clean Ohio Trails Fund, one of the Advisory Board to assist in the administration most significant dedicated state trail funding of the National Recreation Trails Fund. The programs in the country. 12-member board is comprised of trail users and agency representatives to assist ODNR 2001: ODNR begins its statewide trail planning establish funding criteria and policies for the initiative. Amended Substitute House Bill 3 administration of the trails fund. The applica- mandates that projects funded with Clean Ohio tion deadline for the first round of funding is Trail Fund grants be in synchronization with a February 1, 1997. statewide trail plan. 1996: The Ohio & Erie Canal National Heritage 2002: ODNR initiates the Discover Ohio Water Corridor is established (P.L. 104-333). The Trails planning process. The plan will help corridor is an area that stretches approximately identify existing and needed areas of addi- 110 miles from the Cleveland lakefront to tional access to Ohio rivers and streams. New Philadelphia in Tuscarawas County. The 2002: ODNR announces the first round of Clean corridor features numerous natural, scenic and Ohio Trail Fund grants. A total of 24 commu- cultural attractions including the Cuyahoga nities receive $6.25 million for trail acquisition Valley National Park. The Ohio & Erie Canal and construction projects. Association is formed to oversee its 2003: The Ohio Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor development. Recreation Plan again recognizes trails and 1997: ODNR announces the first round of success- greenways as a statewide priority. ful applicants under the National Recreational 2004: ODNR convenes the Canal Lands Real Estate Trails Fund. The first dedicated grant program Review Team. The review team assists for trails in Ohio, a total of 18 agencies/orga- ODNR in developing policies and procedures nizations receive over $730,000 in trails fund regarding the management, stewardship, and assistance. disposition of state-owned canal lands. 1998: ODNR’s Strategic Plan for Recreation 2005: The Ohio Statewide Trails Plan is published. Opportunities identifies recreational corri- The plan is a guide for improving trail oppor- dors and greenways as a priority for meeting tunities in Ohio and for guiding the allocation Ohioans recreation needs. of grant programs that are available for trail and greenway development.

Introduction 7 Public Participation in the Ohio Trails Plan

Public participation was key to developing the Ohio The primary objectives of the meetings were to gather Trails Plan. To make effective decisions about trail information on existing, planned and potential trails, planning and management, a contemporary under- to identify issues and recommendations for develop- standing of trends in trail participation and the atti- ing a statewide trails system, and to identify criteria tudes is needed. To gain this understanding, the Ohio for administering trail related financial assistance pro- Department of Natural Resources sought public input grams. Approximately 500 representatives of trail user throughout the development of the trails plan. That groups, public agencies, planners and private citizens participation included the creation of small ad hoc attended the planning sessions. planning committee, as well as the circulation of a questionnaire to Ohio households, a survey of trail Additional citizen input was gathered via ohiodnr. users (see section on trail activities and participation), com. ODNR posted an initial draft of the Ohio public meetings and planning sessions with special Trails Plan on its web site in January 2002 for public interest groups. review. Feedback was encouraged on: (1) the maps of existing, planned and proposed trails in the state; (2) The ad hoc planning committee included repre- the results of the 2001 statewide trails participation sentatives from the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy, survey; and (3) the identification of strategic issues Ohio Greenways/Ohio Parks and Recreation affecting the provision of trails and the development Association, the National Park Service’s Rivers of a statewide trails network. Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, the Ohio Department of Transportation and ODNR. The A revised draft was again posted on the ODNR web- committee met early in the planning process to create site in late summer of 2004. An outreach program to objectives, develop the format for public input, and solicit comments involved mailings to all 2001 public provide assistance in the development of a trails par- meeting participants, metropolitan planning organiza- ticipation questionnaire. The ad hoc committee also tions (MPOs), trail organizations, and user groups. was instrumental in identifying statewide trail issues The draft Plan’s availability was also announced and formulating the management recommendations through ODNR’s Conservation E-link newsletter and and strategies for resolving the issues presented in the Ohio Park and Recreation Association’s (OPRA) the plan. e-connection list serve. Comments were received from nearly eighty trail users, trail advocates, and In late spring and early summer of 2001, a series of agency representatives. public meetings were held at five sites in Ohio to generate citizen input on a statewide system of trails. Two special planning sessions with motorized trail Two sessions were held at each meeting site, one in interest groups and public land managers of off-high- the early afternoon and one in the evening, for a total way vehicle (OHV) trails were also held to garner of ten separate sessions. The regional meetings were additional input. The goal of these meetings was to held in Westerville (Central Ohio), Bowling Green brainstorm on improving motorized trail opportuni- (Northwest Ohio), Athens (Southeast Ohio), Yellow ties. The recommendations and input received in these Springs (Southwest Ohio), and Cuyahoga Heights meetings has been integrated into the plan. (Northeast Ohio).

8 CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 2

State of Trails in Ohio 9 The State of Trails in Ohio Major Findings

Many of Ohio’s trails are not continuous, connected, Limited public land bases in Ohio make partnerships or easily accessible. To establish a viable statewide with private landowners imperative if long distance trails system, planned and existing trails should link to trails are to be developed and connections to other trails other trails as well as natural, scenic, and community systems are made. resources. Trail opportunities for human powered transportation The benefits of trails must be better promoted to alternatives, such as bicycling, in-line skating, or decision makers who can assist in enhancing Ohio’s walking, are limited in Ohio despite the documented system of trails. benefits of such alternatives. Trail planning should be better coordinated with transportation and community development planners to utilize these transportation Better efforts must be made to secure and utilize linear alternatives. corridors, such as abandoned railroads, canal lands and other rights-of-way, that could be used for trails before they are lost to development. Trail experiences can be improved by providing information on trail systems and opportunities and educating trail users on trail etiquette and ethics. Making Trail managers need to work cooperatively with good information accessible to people will ensure trail users to identify and tackle user conflicts, thereby potential and existing trail users are aware of the enhancing trail opportunities for all users. resources available.

Proper management and maintenance is essential to Intergovernmental cooperation and partnerships can ensure that trail experiences are maximized. Adequately be critical in the planning, funding, development and maintaining Ohio’s trails will be challenging as use management of trails. Partnering provides a means increases, user expectations grow, and budgets tighten. to address mutual concerns and enable all involved to achieve something that might not be accomplished alone. Trail users would like to see more trails available to them. The real or perceived lack of trails can be influ- Adequate support facilities, such as parking, signage, enced by many factors, including poor geographic dis- and restrooms are needed for trail systems to maximize tribution of existing trails, poor advertisement of trails, recreation and transportation opportunities. limited public lands, lack of planning, and inadequate funding. Developing additional trails must be combined with more effective management of existing trails to Funding for all phases of trail development is inad- maximize user needs and expectations. equate and the administration of existing grant programs should be improved. Opportunities for trails on private lands and adjacent to private lands have not been maximized due to concerns about liability, privacy, litter, vandalism, theft and other real and/or perceived problems.

10 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 3

Trail Participation and Activities 11 Trail Participation and Activities Survey of Ohio Households

Perhaps the most compelling information about trails in Ohio was gathered from a sample of Ohioans asked during the summer of 2001 to complete a survey about trail opportuni- ties. The 2001 Ohio Trails Participation Survey was administered to a sample of 2,000 randomly selected Ohio households to assess participation rates and attitudes towards trail activities. Ohioans were asked about their participation in 15 trail activities during the last year, barriers they felt kept them from participating, and their satisfaction with trail experiences, among other questions.

A systematic random sample of Ohio residents was drawn from lists of licensed drivers maintained by the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles. An initial mailing was administered in late June 2001 and a follow-up to non-respondents approximately three weeks later. A total of 296 of the original addresses were eliminated from the sample because they were returned by the Post Office as non-deliverable. A total of 440 useable questionnaires were returned from the two mailings for a 26 percent response rate. Therefore, caution should be exercised in applying this data to a statewide level. The most significant findings of this survey are presented follow.

How are Ohioans using our trails?

Figure 3.1 – Average Number of Household Activity Occasions in Trail Activities, 2001 Backpacking overnight

Canoeing/kayaking

Cross-county skiing

Snow mobile riding

Off-highway vehicle riding (4 wheel)

Horseback riding on trails

Day hiking

In-line skating

Bicycling on natural surface

ATV-riding

Off-road motorcycle riding

Bicycling on hard surface

Nature appreciation

Walking for pleasure

Jogging/exercise running

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 12 CHAPTER 3 How are Ohioans using our trails?

Table 3.1 Household Participation in Trail Activities, Presented in Rank Order from the Most Popular to the Least Popular

Percentage of Average Number Trail Activity Households Trail Activity of Household Participating Activity Occasions Walking for pleasure 73.4 Jogging/exercise running 81.7 Nature appreciation 44.3 Walking for pleasure 68.4 Bicycling on hard surface 44.1 Nature appreciation 45.9 Day hiking 42.9 Bicycling on hard surface 35.3 Jogging/exercise running 24.8 Off-road motorcycle riding 33.3 Bicycling on natural surface 18.9 ATV-riding 29.7 In-line skating 18.8 Bicycling on natural surface 20.5 Canoeing/kayaking 18.4 In-line skating 19.9 Horseback riding on trails 8.9 Day hiking 19.3 Backpacking overnight 7.0 Horseback riding on trails 16.5 ATV-riding 6.4 Off-highway vehicle riding (4 wheel) 14.9 Off-highway vehicle riding (4 wheel) 5.9 Snowmobile riding 10.1 Cross-country skiing 5.0 Cross-country skiing 4.6 Off-road motorcycle riding 3.4 Canoeing/kayaking 4.5 Snowmobile riding 2.7 Backpacking overnight 3.3

Survey results reveal that the most popular trail activities, in terms of the percentage of house- holds that participate, were walking for pleasure, nature appreciation, bicycling on hard surfaces, day hiking, and jogging or exercise running. The most popular activities by frequency were jog- ging/exercise running, walking for pleasure, nature appreciation and bicycling on hard surfaces. It should be noted that all motorized trail activities are characterized by a low percentage of household participation but have relatively high frequencies of participation by those households that do participate. The data in Table 3.1 imply that recreation providers should develop trail opportunities that serve the traditional trail activities. Many types of trails provide opportunities for more than one activity (multi-use) and these types of facilities should be given strong consid- eration in development decisions.

Trail Participation and Activities 13 How satisfied are trail users with Ohio’s trails?

Table 3.2 Satisfaction with Trail Experience in Ohio, 2001, Presented in Rank Order in Percentages with the Mean

Completely Neither Satisfied Completely Trail Activity Dissatisfied Satisfied Mean Dissatisfied Nor Dissatisfied Satisfied 1 Nature appreciation 0.6 1.5 13.3 47.7 36.8 3.2 2 Walking for pleasure 1.0 1.6 8.7 50.6 38.1 3.2 3 Day hiking 0.9 1.9 16.2 54.3 26.7 3.0 4 Bicycling on hard surfaces 1.4 4.7 23.8 42.5 27.6 2.9 5 Jogging/exercise running 1.6 2.3 31.3 45.3 19.5 2.8 6 Backpacking 3.4 2.3 35.6 41.4 17.2 2.7 7 Canoeing/kayaking 4.0 3.0 38.4 34.3 20.2 2.6 8 In-line skating 3.6 5.5 38.1 33.6 19.1 2.6 9 Bicycling on natural surfaces 2.8 7.4 32.4 41.7 15.7 2.6 10 Horseback riding on trails 5.0 2.7 49.3 24.1 18.8 2.5 11 All-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding 7.7 6.3 56.3 21.8 7.8 2.2 12 Cross-country skiing 7.7 4.6 56.9 21.5 9.2 2.2 13 Off-highway vehicle (4 wheel) riding 9.8 6.6 55.7 21.3 6.6 2.1 14 Snowmobile riding 9.0 6.0 60.4 20.8 3.8 2.0 15 Off-highway motorcycle riding 10.2 2.0 71.4 14.3 2.0 1.9

Ohio’s recreational trails scored well in user satisfaction, but certainly have room for improve- ment. Walking for pleasure, nature appreciation, day hiking, and bicycling on hard surface experiences scored well. Recreation resource managers commonly provide these traditional trail activities. Off-road motorcycling, snowmobiling, off-highway vehicle (4 wheel) riding, and ATV riding received lower scores. These motorized activities have few designated riding areas in Ohio.

What’s keeping people from using Ohio’s trails?

Table 3.3 Barriers to Greater Participation in Trail Activities, 2001, Presented in Percentages The most common barriers Percent Indicating Type of Barrier Barrier Important to better trails participation 1 Lack time 43.9 included: lack of time, lack 2 Lack information about trails 38.2 of information about trails, 3 Trails are too far away 32.7 lack of trails close to home 4 There are not enough trails 29.5 and overall lack of trails. 5 Family responsibilities 26.8 These data suggest that 6 Poor health/age 15.0 recreation providers should 7 Friends do not participate 10.9 continue to develop trails, 8 Lack skills to participate 8.2 especially close to home, 9 Lack of support facilities 7.5 and improve the dissemina- 10 Trails are too crowded 6.6 tion of information about 11 Trails are in poor condition 5.5 existing trail opportunities. 12 Trails are unsafe 5.0 13 Trails are not accessible 4.5 14 Participation costs too much 2.7 15 Lack transportation 1.8

14 CHAPTER 3 Why are people using Ohio’s trails?

Table 3.4 Motivational Factors for Participating in Trail Activities, 2001, Presented in Rank Order with the Mean

Not Of Little Very Motivational Factor Important Mean Important Importance Important 1 To have fun/good time 5.2 3.8 33.8 57.2 2.4 2 To exercise 2.7 6.3 36.0 55.0 2.4 3 To relax 3.3 4.8 40.3 51.5 2.4 4 To observe and enjoy nature 3.3 4.9 38.9 52.8 2.4 5 To be with friends/family 6.2 5.5 43.8 44.5 2.3 6 To have a safe trail experience 12.4 9.3 33.4 44.9 2.1 7 To escape busy schedules 14.7 15.4 39.2 30.7 1.9 8 To see new places 13.5 13.1 42.9 30.5 1.9 9 To challenge myself 22.9 19.6 37.5 20.0 1.5 10 To educate myself 27.6 21.8 33.0 17.6 1.4 11 To be alone 32.3 26.0 26.0 15.7 1.2 12 To develop new skills 37.8 28.3 23.2 10.7 1.1 13 To meet new people 42.2 28.2 19.4 10.1 1.0 14 To test outdoor skills 48.2 25.3 19.5 7.0 0.8 15 To travel/commute to another place 54.8 21.3 18.4 5.5 0.7 16 To compete with others 64.7 25.2 8.1 2.0 0.5

Many factors motivate Ohioans to enjoy trails, including to have fun/good time, exercise, relaxation, nature appreciation, and spending time with family and friends. Surprisingly, the use of trails to travel from one place to another was the second lowest motivational factor. This could be an indication that more linear trails – trails that take you from point A to point B – are needed in Ohio.

How long does it take trail users to access our trails?

Table 3.5 Average Time (Minutes) to Favorite Trail Sites, 2001

Average Time to Site (minutes) Trail Activity Rounded to Nearest Full Minute Trail users travel the 1 Backpacking overnight 87 farthest to backpack, 2 Snowmobile riding 71 snowmobile and ride 3 Off-road motorcycle riding 59 other motorized recre- 4 ATV riding 53 ation vehicles. This can 5 Off-highway vehicle riding (4 wheel) 51 be attributed to the lack 6 Canoeing/kayaking 49 of these kinds of trails in 7 Horseback riding on trails 43 the state. Trail activities 8 Cross-country skiing 40 that require the shortest 9 Day hiking 33 travel time are jogging 10 Bicycling on natural surface 28 and exercise running, 11 Nature appreciation 26 in-line skating, and 12 Bicycling on hard surface 20 walking for pleasure. 13 Walking for pleasure 18 14 In-line skating 16 15 Jogging/exercise running 15 Trail Participation and Activities 15 Should future investments be made in trails?

Table 3.6 Attitudes Toward Future Investment in Trails in Ohio, 2001, Presented in Rank Order in Percentages with Mean

Greatly Reduce Invest About Invest Much Investment Option Reduce Invest More Mean Investment the Same More Investment 1 Community trail systems 1.4 4.1 32.3 39.1 23.1 2.8 2 Walking trails 0.6 2.2 34.9 38.5 23.7 2.8 Statewide/regional trails 3 2.4 4.2 37.4 37.5 18.5 2.7 systems 4 Nature/interpretive trails 3.3 3.7 42.6 34.9 15.4 2.6 5 Hard surface bicycle trails 3.5 4.5 39.0 34.5 18.5 2.6 6 Jogging/exercise trails 2.7 4.6 52.4 29.5 10.8 2.5 7 Day hiking 1.8 2.9 56.8 27.1 12.3 2.4 8 Backpack trails 2.7 6.3 61.3 21.9 7.8 2.2 9 Natural surface bicycle trails 5.2 10.2 52.9 21.8 9.8 2.2 10 In-line skating trails 10.9 10.9 53.4 17.8 6.9 2.1 11 Canoeing/kayaking trails 5.7 9.7 58.3 18.6 7.7 2.1 12 Horseback-riding trails 7.5 16.6 54.4 12.4 9.1 2.0 13 Cross-country skiing trails 8.9 11.5 63.8 12.3 3.4 1.9 14 Snowmobile trails 28.5 18.4 42.7 7.9 2.5 1.4 15 Off highway vehicle trails 36.3 17.6 35.1 6.5 4.5 1.3 16 ATV trails 33.6 19.4 35.6 7.3 4.1 1.3 17 Off-road motorcycle trails 36.0 18.2 36.0 5.3 4.5 1.2

Trail users would like to see more investment for biking, hiking, walking and nature observation trails, but are less enthusiastic about funding trails for snowmobiles, ATVs, motorcycles and off- highway vehicles. Agencies that administer grant or federal aid reimbursement programs for trail development are encouraged to consider these preferences in developing priorities and policies for allocating financial assistance to trail projects.

Trail Activities A statewide trails network has many users with different needs that must be considered to provide a comprehensive and effective trails system. Fifteen trail activities were assessed in the 2001 Ohio Trails Participation Survey. Each individual trail activity was analyzed by using several criteria, including: participation data and a general overview of the activity; the major providers of the trail facilities; a listing of some of the major barriers that prevent better participation in the activity; and recommendations about how to improve the trail activity in question.

Several general trends appeared through the review of survey responses. Trail users would like to see more opportunities for their particular activity of interest, better maintenance of their trails, and better management of different trail uses.

16 CHAPTER 3 JOGGING/EXERCISE RUNNING Participation in jogging and exercise running continues to be popular nationwide and in Ohio. More than 24 million Americans participate in the activities, accord- ing to the National Sporting Goods Association Recreation Participation Study released in 2001. The Ohio Trails Participation Survey found that nearly 25 per- cent of Ohio households partici- pate on average 82 times annually, making it one of the most popular trail activities in the state. While joggers and runners can be seen on neighborhood streets, many prefer designated trails that are generally easier on the joints and safer to navigate.

Major Issues and Possible Solutions • Like virtually all trail activi- Major Issues and WALKING FOR ties, user conflicts can occur Possible Solutions PLEASURE between runners and other trail users. Competition for trail space Walking for pleasure is the most • Safety is a concern in any walk- between different user groups popular outdoor recreation ing environment, but particularly can be especially prevalent in activity in the United States, in areas where there are motor urban areas. according to the U.S. Forest vehicles. An average of 4,587 Service’s National Survey on pedestrians were involved in Recreation and Environment accidents with vehicles between in 2000. In Ohio, more than 73 19990 and 2002, according percent of households walk for to the Ohio Department of pleasure an average of 68 times a Transportation (ODOT). To year, according to the Ohio Trails encourage safety, trails should Participation Survey. be developed in safe, convenient Walking opportunities are virtu- and attractive environments. ally everywhere and do not neces- This could include better street sarily require designated trails, crossings, signage, crosswalk however, there are many trails for markers, wider sidewalks, curb this activity. extensions, and refuge islands. • Trails should be developed to link community resources as well as transportation systems.

Trail Participation and Activities 17 • Finding information on running trails can be a problem, espe- cially for dedicated and frequent runners who are visitors to an area and are unfamiliar with available trails. Information on running and jogging trails should be included in visitor informa- tion packages. In addition, trail providers should continue to offer and promote organized running events. Where feasible, trail providers should continue to emphasize the development of close-to-home, multi-purpose trails. • Support facilities for runners and other trail users often are of Natural Resources offers more Major Issues and lacking. Facilities can include than 1,700 miles of hiking trails in Possible Solutions locations with drinking water, its state parks, forests, nature pre- lighting, parking and restrooms, serves and wildlife areas. Federal • Better management and main- for example. Support facilities agencies such as the U.S. Forest tenance of all trails in Ohio are help maximize trail experiences Service (Wayne National Forest in needed. Consistent problems and should be integrated into trail southern Ohio), the National Park include: inadequate marking of development projects. Service (Cuyahoga Valley National trails, trail erosion, and inad- Park in Northeast Ohio), the U.S. equate support facilities, such as restrooms and shelters. Enhanced Day Hiking Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service management and maintenance Hiking has long been a traditional provide hiking opportunities on mean improved visitor safety. use of trails. More than 70 mil- their lands. Local governments • Some of Ohio's trails are multi- lion Americans participated in a and park districts are also major use, meaning they host various day hike at least once in the year providers of hiking trails in Ohio. activities, which can result in 2000, according to the National The Buckeye Trail Association conflicts between user groups. Survey on Recreation and the (BTA) is a good example of a Trail managers should help to Environment performed by the private group’s commitment to educate trail users on proper trail U.S. Forest Service. In Ohio, providing trails in Ohio. The BTA, uses and etiquette. about 43 percent of households a not-for-profit volunteer organi- participate in hiking an average of • More hiking opportunities are zation, has been the driving force 19 times a year, according to Ohio needed close to urban and subur- behind the establishment of the Trails Participation Survey. ban residential areas. These trails nearly 1,300-mile Buckeye Trail. Hiking has broad appeal and should still be located in natural Members of the Buckeye Trail little-to-no special equipment is settings, along greenways and Association lobby for trail devel- required. Hikers say they enjoy through other open spaces. opment, sponsor education work- the physical fitness they gain from shops, create new and maintain being outdoors in a natural setting. existing sections of trail, develop All levels of government, park dis- and distribute maps, and organize tricts, and private groups provide group hikes. hiking trails. The Ohio Department

18 CHAPTER 3 BACKPACKING Major Issues and Backpacking does not share the Possible Solutions same mass appeal of day hik- • Backpacking opportunities are ing; however, participation in the limited in Ohio and not well pub- activity nationwide has grown licized. Most of the trails suitable more than 50 percent since the for a true backpacking experi- mid-1990s. Nearly 22 million ence are located in southern Americans said they backpacked Ohio, a significant distance from at least once in 2000, according to the majority of the state's popu- the U.S. Forest Service’s recre- lation. Agencies that provide ation study. Participation levels are backpack trails should explore similar in Ohio. About 7 percent of cooperative agreements with Ohio households hike about three other groups and private land- times a year. owners to enhance trail opportu- nities. Rerouting of existing trails could be considered to provide new experiences. • Access to backpack trails and overnight facilities to support Major Issues and the trails should be improved. Possible Solutions Such facilities could include • Ohio’s many urban areas limit campgrounds and interpretative opportunities for observing wild- opportunities. life on public lands. Habitat loss • The maintenance of backpack and the continued degradation trails can be challenging because of wildlife habitat contribute to of their extensive length and the this problem. Trails can be routed associated costs. through natural areas like wet- lands and developed with support facilities like observation decks NATURE APPRECIATION and blinds to maximize wildlife Using trails to view and appreciate viewing opportunities. the natural environment is one of • Trail managers and trail groups Backpackers tend to be younger the most popular trail activities in should maximize efforts to in age and well educated. Ohio’s Ohio. While nature appreciation develop educational programs backpackers are willing to travel can be a complementary compo- on the natural environment in to participate in these activities, nent to virtually all trail activities, conjunction with trail traveling an average of 87 minutes the high levels of participation are opportunities. to their favorite trail, according indicative of its importance as a to the Ohio Trails Participation motivator of trail use. More than Survey. That’s a longer travel 44 percent of Ohio households time than any other trail activity participated in this activity, accord- in Ohio. True backpacking trails ing to the Ohio Trails Participation are provided by a limited number Survey. Wildlife observation was of agencies in Ohio. ODNR offers the most popular outdoor activ- several backpack trails at its state ity in Ohio, according to the 2003 forests and state parks. Some Ohio Statewide Comprehensive backpacking also can be found at Outdoor Recreation Plan. Wayne National Forest.

Trail Participation and Activities 19 BICYCLING Bicycle trails are provided bicyclist and/or fail to recognize (hard surface) primarily by local government the bicycle as a vehicle under Bicycling continues to be one of agencies in Ohio. Metropolitan the law. Educational and safety the most popular outdoor pur- planning organizations develop awareness programs and skills suits nationally and in Ohio. The bicycle plans for their jurisdic- tests for bicyclists and motorists National Survey on Recreation tions and the ODOT administers alike should be offered in com- and the Environment found that a statewide Bicycle/Pedestrian munities. bicycling grew by more than 50 Program that provides a wealth of • Support facilities such as park- percent from the mid-1990s to information on bicycling informa- ing, potable water, bicycle racks, 2000. More than 41 percent of tion in Ohio. restrooms, and storage facilities Americans participated in the are often lacking. Such support activity, according to the national Major Issues facilities should be included survey. Similarly, 44 percent of • Bicycle safety continues to be an in the planning and design of Ohio households participated at issue for recreational bicyclists. bicycle trails. least once in 2001, according to the Thousands of bicycle– motor • Bicycle trail maintenance is often Ohio Trails Participation Survey. vehicle accidents occur every a problem. Bike paths especially Although most bicycle trips are year in addition to a large need constant maintenance recreational in nature, bicycles are number of accidents with fixed to provide safe and enjoyable also used for transportation. objects, pedestrians, or other opportunities. High priority Improvements in and the vari- cyclists. Between 1990 and 2002, should be given to bicycle secu- ety of bicycles now on the market there were an average of 2,517 rity in communities, parks, and have undoubtedly contributed to bicycle crashes with 19 fatalities other areas where bicycle use is the popularity of bicycling (moun- per year, according to ODOT. common. tain biking is discussed separately Bicyclists have the same rights • Where public involvement sup- in the following section). Aside and responsibilities as automo- ports it, highways, except those from the initial investment, bicy- bile drivers and must ride with where bicycles are legally pro- cling is a relatively low-cost activ- the traffic and generally obey all hibited, should be designed and ity that can be enjoyed solo or in a traffic laws. Many bicyclists do constructed under the assumption group. It is an activity that people not, while many motorists do that bicyclists will use them. of all ages and socio-demographic not know the rights of the backgrounds can enjoy. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials reports the majority of bicycling takes place on ordinary roads with no dedicated space for bicycles. Nevertheless, desig- nated bicycle paths are becoming extremely popular as facilities like rail-trails offer enhanced opportu- nities for recreational bicyclists. Ohio is host to many organized group bicycle activities and rides and has an extensive network of bicycle clubs and organiza- tions that increase awareness of the activity and work to improve opportunities in the state.

20 CHAPTER 3 MOUNTAIN (off-road) INLINE SKATING BICYCLING Inline skating is a recreational Mountain bicycling, or off-road activity that evolved from roller and single track bicycling, is a skating in the early 1980s and relatively new activity that has is now one of the fastest grow- grown significantly in recent years. ing recreational activities in the The National Survey on Recreation country. Like bicycling, inline and the Environment found that 23 skating is used for transportation. percent of Americans participate in However, unlike bicycling, inline the sport. About 19 percent of Ohio skaters require a fairly smooth households enjoyed mountain bik- surface. Skating has moved from ing at least once in 2001, accord- the indoors to the outdoors on ing to the Ohio Trails Participation trails. Activities using inline skates Survey. include: freestyle skating, fitness Mountain biking likely began to training, cross-training for sports appear in the 1970s when indi- such as skiing, recreation and viduals put fat tires on their bikes inline hockey. Recent innovations and began to compete in vari- in skate technology have made ous downhill and cross-country inline skating easier to learn, more Major Issues types of events. The International comfortable and more efficient. Mountain Biking Association • Land managers often cite About 29 million Americans (IMBA) surveyed a sample of its resource damage as a negative skate regularly, according to membership in 2003 and found impact of mountain biking. The the International Inline Skating that more than 85 percent were most common types of resource Association. Participation is male, with an average age of 38. degradation include soil compac- divided equally between males Most members own more than tion and water erosion from fur- and females. In Ohio, nearly 19 two bicycles and 50 percent have rows or channels. Land managers percent of the surveyed households household incomes of more than are encouraged to work with trail participated in an inline skating $75,000. Most riders consider the users to educate them on ways to activity an average of 20 times per variety and difficulty of the terrain, maintain environmental qual- year, according to the Ohio Trails the number of trails available at ity. In addition trails should be Participation Survey. a site, and the scenery of the area designed and located on lands Inline skaters often share Ohio’s when choosing a trail. suitable for their use, thereby paved trails with bicyclists, walk- Mountain biking trails can be minimizing erosion and water ers and runners. Local units of found throughout the state, but runoff. government and agencies like met- are primarily located on govern- • Conflict with other trail users ropolitan park districts generally ment lands, including ODNR park is also a problem, particularly manage these paved trails. and forest property and at Wayne because of the quick speed at National Forest in southeast Ohio. which mountain bikers travel. As a result, safety becomes an issue. Trail managers should encourage riders to get proper training before biking on trails. Appropriate signage at trailheads and along trails should identify designated trails, advise riders of potential hazards and indicate if there are additional uses for the trail.

Trail Participation and Activities 21 has also been especially active in lobbying for and assisting in the improvement of trails in state parks and state forests through its involvement in the Ohio Trails Partnership.

Major Issues • Equestrian trail riders would like to see improved facilities at pub- lic riding areas, including hitch- ing posts, parking areas that can Major Issues HORSEBACK RIDING accommodate trailers, drinking • In some places, inline skating ON TRAILS water for horses and riders, and is illegal. Some jurisdictions Horseback riding is a traditional restrooms. Horseback riders also prohibit skating in traffic or on trail activity that appeals to a have complained about non-stan- sidewalks. Communities should broad cross-section of the popu- dardized signage on bridle trails. recognize inline skating as a lation. About 9 percent of Ohio Trail providers should consider clearly definable means of trans- households went horseback riding improving or providing such portation and promote legislative an average of 16 times in 2001, facilities where needed. changes that amend anti-skate according to the Ohio Trails • Additional equestrian trails ordinances. Consideration Participation Survey. National should be considered in parts of should be given to providing participation rates are very simi- the state that are lacking them. skaters similar rights and respon- lar. Riders are motivated to visit • Bridle trails maintenance is also a sibilities as bicyclists. Ohio’s trails for the opportunity to work with a horse and refine their concern among Ohio's horseback • As with all trail activities, safety skills. riders. Trail erosion and trails is a concern among inline skat- Equestrian (bridle) trails are that are overgrown, muddy, slip- pery or steep have the potential ers. As participation rates have provided by all levels of govern- to cause injury to horse and rider. increased so have the number ment and on privately owned and Litter along bridle trails can also of injuries and deaths related managed land in Ohio. ODNR degrade recreation experiences to skating activities. Education manages more than 800 miles of and frighten or injure horses. programs that promote skating equestrian trails in its state parks Adequately maintained facili- safety should be developed and and state forests. Wayne National ties not only improve recreation implemented. Forest has about 80 miles of trails experiences but also help avoid • Conflict with other trail users is and the Cuyahoga Valley National potential injury to riders and Park offers nearly 200 mile of also a problem. Many trails were horses. designed without considering the trails in northeastern Ohio. Park impact on skaters. Many novice districts and certain local govern- • Like many trail activities, user and intermediate users share ments also offer equestrian trails. conflicts are commonly cited as trails with other users and have The Ohio Horseman’s Council an issue with equestrians. For different needs from cyclists is an association of horse owners example, approaching trail users, and pedestrians. Novice skaters and advocates who have organized such as bikers or joggers, can spook horses. In addition, incom- can have difficulty in turning or to improve and provide equestrian patibilities between trail surface stopping quickly. Needs of inline activities, facilities and informa- demands by equestrians and skaters should be considered as tion resources for the state’s horse- other users could require parallel future roadways are constructed. men. Founded in 1973, the Council trail development in multi-use Special attention in trail design is comprised of several county corridors and where trails are should also be given to bridge chapters that promote local and heavily used. crossings, ramps, and grates. statewide interests. The Council 22 CHAPTER 3 CANOEING AND Major Issues and KAYAKING Possible Solutions Canoeing and kayaking, although • Water-trail users complain of lack they are different activities, are of adequate access to navigable the two primary uses of water streams. Most riparian land is trails in Ohio. There are nearly privately owned in Ohio, which three canoeists for every kayak contributes to access problems. enthusiast in the United States. Trail users also need more Although the relative number of information about property rights Americans that enjoy canoeing and and the public trust doctrine. kayaking is small, surveys show ONDR is working to complete that both of these activities are its Discover Ohio Water Trails among the fastest growing in the initiative that will identify poten- country. About 18 percent of Ohio tial recreational access points on households participated in one or Ohio's waterways and potential both of these paddling activities, state designated water trails. according to the 2001 Ohio Trails Ohio courts should clarify issues CROSS-COUNTRY Participation Survey. A primary related to the recreational use SKIING motivation for water-trail paddling of riparian corridors, especially Cross-country skiing is a win- is the opportunity to enjoy stream trespassing. ter activity that is increasing in corridor scenery as well as exercise • Safety, as with all trails uses, is popularity. About 5 percent of and relaxation. Water trail users also a concern. Particularly, low Ohio households indicate they also swim, fish, hunt, and observe head dams, fences, fast and cold participate in cross-country ski- nature and wildlife. water, and other man-made or ing, according to the Ohio Trails Navigable streams exist in virtu- natural hazards can pose serious Participation Survey. While skiing ally all areas of Ohio. However, safety threats to stream boaters. is a compatible wintertime use for the existence of a navigable stream ODNR should take a leadership multi-purpose trails, many skiers does not necessarily equate to a role in identifying low head dams do not necessarily need a marked, water trail. Streams must have on Ohio waterways and, where signed trail. The activity can adequate access or put-in and take- feasible, coordinate their removal take place in local parks, on golf out points to make them ideally in partnership with local juris- courses, or along snow covered suitable as a water trail. Many pub- dictions. These safety hazards road rights-of-way. lic agencies and private businesses should be well publicized. Cross-country skiing opportuni- and organizations are involved in ties are dependent upon adequate providing access and related facili- • Water-trail users suggest support snowfall, which is sometimes ties for canoeing and kayaking. facilities, such as access trails, parking, restrooms, signs and problematic in a marginal snow trashcans, be improved. Such state like Ohio. Cross-county ski- facilities, if provided at strategic ing is both a family and individual locations, would greatly enhance sport. Participants are attracted by Ohio’s water-trail experiences. the sense of solitude and the enjoy- ment of being outdoors. • Recreational users should be Numerous agencies and organi- educated on the rights of private zations provide skiing opportuni- landowners, proper boater eti- ties and the activity has minimal quette and environmental issues impact on the environment. ODNR associated with waterway use. offers more than 300 miles of trails that can be utilized for skiing in parks, forests, and select nature preserves.

Trail Participation and Activities 23 Major Issues and Possible Solutions • Conflicts with other winter trail users, such as snowmobilers, can be problematic, especially for those users on designated trails. Cross-country ski areas should have well-marked, groomed trails. While some skiers do not desire groomed trails, grooming eases trail use, helps users from becoming disoriented, increases safety, and deters other user groups from using cross-country trails. • Existing and potential partici- pants sometimes cite the lack of appropriate skill as an impedi- useful functions. Snowmobiles are ment to increased participation. SNOWMOBILING used by law enforcement agencies Trail managers should consider Riding snowmobiles is a mostly for search, rescue, and emergency offering rental equipment and winter activity with low levels of missions as well as farmers, sur- clinics if they do not already. participation in Ohio. Less than veyors, and others as part of their Rental equipment and clinics for 3 percent of Ohio households jobs. beginners would enable poten- snowmobile, according to Ohio Snowmobiling opportunities on tial users to try the sport before Trails Participation Survey. This public lands are somewhat limited making a financial investment in rate of participation is lower than in Ohio. ODNR offers opportuni- needed equipment and supplies. the national average of 7 percent of households. Factors such as the ties at a number of state parks and • Safety can also be an issue for unpredictability of Ohio winters, state forests. Local governments cross-country skiers. Low the cost of equipment, and the provide very few riding areas in branches, rocks, tree stumps lack of suitable riding opportuni- their parks and their trails. Private or other obstacles can create ties could contribute to the differ- landowners are a key provider potential accident scenarios. In ence. Snowmobile registrations in of snowmobiling opportunities addition, cross-country skiers Ohio average 18,000 – 20,000 for in Ohio. Numerous snowmobile need to be aware of the potential any particular three-year period, clubs in Ohio have agreements danger of participating in a cold according to the Ohio Bureau of with private landowners to ride weather activity. Trails that are Motor Vehicles. Registrations, and maintain trails. The Ohio designated for cross-country ski- however, are not indicative of the State Snowmobile Association ing use should avoid areas with total number of machines in Ohio (OSSA) is the primary interest large tree canopies, south fac- since registration is only required group of snowmobile riders in the ing slopes, have adequate sight if the vehicles are to be ridden on state. OSSA cooperates with pri- distance and deceleration areas public lands in the state. vate landowners and government at road intersections, and avoid In states with large numbers agencies to develop snowmobiling other potential hazards. of snowmobile riders and trails, opportunities, organize and pro- snowmobiling contributes signifi- mote special programs and events, cantly to local and state economies. lobby for snowmobile legislation, Although commonly thought of as promote safe snowmobiling, and a recreational activity, snowmo- serve as general voice of snowmo- biles can also provide many other bile riders in Ohio.

24 CHAPTER 3 Major Issues and registration numbers is limited gasoline for snowmobiling or Possible Solutions and many riders feel the number require an additional fee for out- detracts from the appearance of of-state riders who are registered • Snowmobile trails are lacking in the snowmobile. Registration in another state. Increasing the Ohio, especially long distance decals or stickers are possible fee for Ohio snowmobile regis- and interconnected trails. Trails alternatives to the lettering that tration would be the most direct may be lacking because of the now is used. way of generating additional limited amount of public funds for trail improve- lands available for trails as ments as well as getting well as private landowners’ non-registered machines reluctance to make their land registered. Registration available for snowmobil- could be required when ing because of liability and a snowmobile is pur- possible property damage. chased. Cooperative agreements should be developed with • Safety continues to private landowners, such be a concern for both as permit-only use of their participants and pro- land for snowmobiling. Such viders of snowmobile agreements should be devel- opportunities. The safe oped and implemented pri- operation of a snow- marily by snowmobile clubs mobile requires skill, with the possible involvement training and knowledge of state and local government. of riding regulations. At present, Ohio law does Various trail hazards not allow for use of rights of can also present prob- way on limited access high- lems to snowmobile ways, but such land could be riders, including tree used as snowmobile trails. stumps, low tree limbs, Snowmobile advocates should narrow passages, deep determine if there is an inter- ravines, steep inclines, est in attempting to change open water, and thin the law regarding this use. ice. Snowmobiling Obtaining the use of rail- is primarily a win- trails also would offer more ter activity making it trail opportunities. • Improvements to snowmobile imperative that participants wear trails are needed. However, there proper clothing and are aware • Snowmobile registration proce- are limited state funds available of the dangers of cold weather, dures and requirements in Ohio for such improvements. The hypothermia, frost bite and ice need improvement. Registration State Recreational Vehicle Fund conditions. Those agencies and should be available at snowmo- is the repository for snowmobile organizations with an interest in bile dealerships, through the mail registrations and other all-pur- snowmobiling should coopera- or on the Internet, to increase pose vehicles in Ohio. The cur- tively sponsor snowmobile safety convenience for riders and rent three-year registration fee of and education programs, skill perhaps increase registration. In $5.00 (plus a $3.50 writing fee) development courses and semi- addition, snowmobile owners do does not generate enough reve- nars on winter safety. Literature not like having to permanently nue to make significant improve- on proper use of snowmobiles place a registration number (let- ments in the state's motorized should be distributed. tering must not be less than three trail system. Ohio, unlike other inches high) on each side of a • Land managers often cite user states, does not levy a tax on snowmobile's cowling. Space for conflicts between snowmobile

Trail Participation and Activities 25 riders and other recreational user groups as reason why snowmo- bile opportunities are lacking. Conflicts can occur with cross- country skiers, hikers, and ice fishermen. Uniform trail marking should clearly identify usable areas and warn snowmobile riders of potential and existing hazards. • Ohio's snowmobile regulations and requirements continue to be confusing for riders. Riders suggest there are inconsistencies with Ohio’s laws and registration requirements compared to other states that allow snowmobiling. ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE and riding experiences. ATVs are (ATV) RIDING commonly used by hunters and for • Environmental impacts caused by a variety of industrial and agri- snowmobiling are a concern for All-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding is one of the fastest growing forms of business applications. Public ATV land managers. Noisy machines riding areas in Ohio are provided or riders that disregard marked motorized recreation in the coun- try according to the All-Terrain exclusively by Wayne National trails can have adverse impacts Forest in southern Ohio and by the on other recreational users, wild- Vehicle Association (ATVA). Recreational use of ATVs, com- ODNR at four of its state forests. life, vegetation, and other natural These trails are multi-purpose features. Snowmobile trails monly referred to as quads, can generally be categorized as trail and accommodate other trail uses, should be located and designed including mountain biking and off- to minimize environmental and off-road riding and competi- tive riding and racing. Nationwide, road motorcycling. damage and noise pollution ATVA, a national membership and, if feasible, road crossings. the sales of ATVs more than doubled from 1997 to 2001. In organization for ATV riders and Snowmobile manufacturers must owners, provides information on continue to address noise issues Ohio, registrations of All-Purpose Vehicles (in Ohio, ATVs are reg- riding, maintaining, buying and by developing quieter exhaust equipping ATVs in addition to systems to help minimize the istered as APVs) have increased dramatically since the mid-1990s. information on riding areas and impacts on other recreational events. The National Off-Highway user groups and wildlife. Ohioans registered nearly 4,200 APVs in 1995, according to the Vehicle Conservation Council Adequate support facilities, such promotes off-highway vehicle club as parking and loading areas, Ohio BMV. By 2003, that figure had climbed to more than 14,000 development, and provides educa- restrooms, information boards, tional materials and programs to signage, and potable water, annual registrations. More than 6 percent of Ohio households improve OHV recreation manage- should be integrated in snowmo- ment, opportunity and resource bile trail design. indicate they participate in ATV riding, according to the Ohio Trails protection. The Ohio Multi-Use • Information on snowmobiling Participation Survey. Trails Association (OMTA) is a opportunities needs to be more Riding ATVs generally requires state-based organization that was readily available and snowmo- a significant investment of money established “to promote the devel- bile riders need to do a better job for equipment, fuel and routine opment and maintenance of trails communicating their needs to maintenance. ATV riders, depend- throughout Ohio” and is a major land managers and legislators. ing on skill level, typically seek proponent of motorized trails in a variety of challenging settings the state.

26 CHAPTER 3 Major Issues and most commonly cited problems gasoline taxes from ATV users Possible Solutions by land managers and other rec- for trail improvements or have reationists. ATV trails should be an additional fee for out-of-state • Public ATV riding areas are designed and located where user riders who are registered in their extremely limited in Ohio, with conflicts and the need for inten- home or another state. Support most opportunities being in sive maintenance and enforce- facilities for ATV trails, includ- southern Ohio, and preserving ment will be minimized. ing staging areas, campsites, legal access to existing trails comfort stations, and restrooms, is an on-going struggle. Most • Resource degradation and noise should be integrated into new public land managing agen- caused by ATVs are concerns and existing ATV trail networks. cies view off-highway vehicle of public land managers and Increasing the fee for Ohio ATV activities as not being compat- private landowners. As a result, registration would be the most ible with their land management ATV trails require regular main- direct way of generating addi- goals, thus limiting opportuni- tenance to provide a balance tional funds for motorized trails ties. Many existing ATV riding between quality riding oppor- in Ohio, as would registering areas are small loop trails that do tunities and resource protec- non-registered machines. Other not link to other resources. ATV tion. Inconsiderate riders who options to increase revenue clubs and organizations should do not stay on marked trails or include having a percentage of work with local governments to trespass on private property can the state gasoline tax attributable establish possible riding oppor- negatively impact land and water to ATV use deposited in the State tunities on county and township resources. Law enforcement Recreation Vehicle Fund and rights-of-way and abandoned or must ensure that more emphasis eliminating the reciprocity agree- vacated roads. is placed on keeping ATVs on designated trails to eliminate ment Ohio has with other states. • Rider safety continues to be an trespassing on private property. Allowing other government enti- important issue for participants ties and trail organizations to use and providers of ATV riding • Liability is a concern to both the fund for trail improvements opportunities. Eligible gov- public and private land managers would be another alternative. ernment agencies and private when considering the develop- organizations should utilize ment of any off-highway recre- the federal Recreational Trails ation area. Although Ohio has a OFF-ROAD Program (RTP) as a mechanism recreational user statute that lim- MOTORCYCLE RIDING for increasing and improving its liability to public agencies and Motorcycle riding is enjoyed by motorized trail opportunities in landowners if no fee is charged literally millions of Americans Ohio and for safety and envi- for a recreational use (unless in a number of different formats, ronmental education programs. gross negligence contributed to including street riding, competitive In addition, partnerships should an injury), the fear of being sued racing, off road and trail riding. be explored to provide safety, is still a strong deterrent. The The recreational use of motor- skill, and trail sensibility training cost of insurance also discour- cycles, with an emphasis on trail programs. The "Tread Lightly" ages private landowners. riding, is the focus of this plan. campaign, for example, provides • There are limited state funds About 3.4 percent of surveyed numerous materials to educate available for ATV trail develop- Ohio households participated in riders about respecting the ment and improvements. The this activity an average of just environment. The National Off- State Recreation Vehicle Fund is over 33 times per year, according Highway Vehicle Conservation the repository for ATV registra- to the Ohio Trails Participation Council also has publications tion revenue in Ohio. The current Survey. Participants generally about responsible riding. three-year registration fee of invest a significant amount of • User conflicts between ATV rid- $5.00 does not generate suffi- money to participate in the sport. ers and other recreational user cient revenue to make improve- The primary motivation for groups continue to be one of the ments to Ohio's motorized trail motorcycle trail riding appears to system. Ohio does not earmark be the challenge and excitement

Trail Participation and Activities 27 • Rider safety is a significant issue. Learning to safely ride a motor- cycle is something that all motor- cyclists have to do to enjoy the sport. However, acquiring the skills to safely negotiate on vari- ous types of terrains/trails can be a challenging and on-going experience. Eligible government agencies and private non-profit organizations may utilize the Recreational Trails Program for improving off-road motorcycle trails and for safety and envi- ronmental education programs. Off-highway vehicle agencies and organizations should partner with government agencies, where feasible, to offer safety, skills, and trail sensibility riding pro- of riding in various environments. Major Issues and grams. Educational information/ Riders like trails with many chal- Possible Solutions opportunities should continue lenges and surprises including to be disseminated by a wide steep hills, tight turns and water • Publicly provided off-road range of agencies, organizations, crossings. The average trail biker motorcycle trails in Ohio are and dealers. For example, the rides 50-60 miles of trail per day limited to those available in "Tread Lightly" campaign has and expert riders may travel more the Wayne National Forest and numerous pamphlets, brochures, than 100 miles in a day, accord- four state forests managed by and videos to educate riders ing to the American Motorcyclist the Ohio Department of Natural about respecting the environ- Association (AMA). Resources. Like public ATV ment. The National Off-Highway Off-road motorcycle trails on trails, the majority of these trails Vehicle Conservation Council public lands are provided primarily are small loop trails, located in (NOHVCC) also has publications by ODNR at four state forests and the southern and southeastern about responsible use and riding. at Wayne National Forest in south- portion of Ohio, far from Ohio’s ern Ohio. Very few, if any, local population centers. Partnerships governments allow motorcycles with off-road motorcycling clubs or dirt bikes to ride their trails or and organizations and local gov- in their park and recreation areas. ernments should be developed Off-road riding is popular, how- to identify and establish possible ever, on private land in Ohio. riding opportunities on county There are a number of national and township rights-of-way, on organizations that support motor- abandoned or vacated roads, or cycling and trail riding including other potential lands available the AMA, the Motorcycle Industry for OHV use. Where feasible, Council, the Blue Ribbon Coalition ODNR and the U.S. Forest and the National Off-Highway Service should explore oppor- Vehicle Conservation Council. tunities for expanding off-road motorcycling trails on public lands.

28 CHAPTER 3 • User conflicts between off-road earmarked for trail improvements FOUR-WHEEL motorcyclists and other trail or have an additional fee for out- OFF-HIGHWAY users and recreationists is a of-state riders who are registered VEHICLE RIDING common issue on existing trails in their home or another state. Four-wheel drive trail riding is and a frequently cited barrier for Sufficient support facilities for another motorized recreation developing additional opportuni- off-road motorcycling trails (e.g. activity that is expected to grow in ties. Off-road motorcycling trails staging areas, campsites, comfort popularity in the future. This type should be designed and located stations, restrooms, etc.) should of motorized activity involves the where user conflicts and the need be integrated into new and exist- use of full-size 4-wheel vehicles for intensive maintenance and ing trail networks. Increasing the like jeeps, trucks, and sport utility enforcement will be minimized. fee for Ohio off-road motorcy- vehicles (SUVs). About 6 percent cling registration would be the • Like other off-highway recreation of Ohio households participate most direct way of generating vehicle users, trail bikes can in this off-highway trail activ- additional funds for motorized cause significant environmental ity, according to the Ohio Trails trails in Ohio. Getting non-regis- impacts and resource degrada- Participation Survey. tered machines registered would tion. Excessive noise, trespass- Like other forms of off-highway also generate additional monies. ing on private property, and/or vehicle trail riding, four-wheeling Other options to increase revenue straying off marked trails are is considered a family activity that include having a percentage of other common complaints related is enjoyed by a cross-section of the the state gasoline tax attribut- to motorized recreation activi- population. Contrary to popular able to off-road motorcycling use ties. Land managers must give perception, most four-wheeler trail deposited in the State Recreation particular attention to regular, riders do not exceed speeds over Vehicle Fund and eliminating the on-going maintenance of off- 10 mph. The ultimate challenge is reciprocity agreement Ohio has road motorcycling trails. This in the “set up” of the vehicle and with other states. Allowing other can include trail hardening, how it subsequently handles vari- government entities and non- signage, construction of water ous rocks, ruts and slopes. There profit trail organizations to use diversion devices, and temporar- are a variety of driving conditions the SRVF for trail improvements ily closing sections of trail to that challenge the four-wheeler, would be another alternative. allow the ground to be restored ranging from dry, well-maintained, to its pre- disturbance condition. Law enforcement activities must ensure that more emphasis is given keeping off-road motorcy- cling on designated routes and trails and to minimize trespassing on private property. • There are limited state funds available for off-road motorcycle trail development and improve- ments in Ohio. The State Recreation Vehicle Fund is the repository for trail bike regis- tration revenue in Ohio. The current five-year registration fee of $5.00 does not generate suffi- cient revenue to make significant improvements to Ohio motorized trail system. Additionally, Ohio does not levy a tax on gasoline

Trail Participation and Activities 29 dirt trails to conditions only local governments to identify and experts should attempt to negoti- establish possible riding oppor- ate. Four-wheel drivers enjoy tunities on county and township riding in all environments, includ- rights-of-way and on abandoned ing sand, snow, mud, shallow or vacated roads. creeks and ponds. • Safety, as in all trail activities, Four-wheel trail opportunities is always a concern. Although on public lands are virtually non- most four-wheelers do not drive existent in Ohio. ODNR and the at excessive speeds, there are U.S. Forest Service, the only two inherent dangers in four-wheel- agencies in Ohio that provide other ing. Vehicles can tip over ("turtle off-highway opportunities, prohibit truck"), get stuck in remote vehicles that are wider than 50 areas, or drivers can be thrown inches on their trails. As a result, from their vehicles. Off-highway four-wheel enthusiasts must look vehicle groups should partner for riding areas on private land or with government to offer safety, in other states. Various low volume skills, and trail sensibility train- county and township roads are ing. Educational materials should other options for four-wheelers in continue to be disseminated. Ohio. Two non-profit organizations • The size and weight of four- that work for the four-wheel drive wheel vehicles can create interests include the East Coast significant impacts on land and 4Wheel Drive Association and water resources. The problem the United Four Wheel Drive can be compounded when riders Association. The groups regulate do not stay on designated trails competitive events, provide educa- or trespass on private property. tion programs and clinics, work The "Tread Lightly" campaign, to prevent the closure of public for example, has numerous lands, conduct search and rescue materials to educate riders about missions, promote recreational trail respecting the environment. The riding, and work with elected offi- National Off-Highway Vehicle cials and government agencies to Conservation Council also has enhance four-wheel opportunities. publications about responsible use and riding. Major Issues and • There are no dedicated state funds available for improving Possible Solutions four-wheel drive travel oppor- • The lack of any publicly desig- tunities in Ohio. Since most nated trails for four-wheel trail four-wheel drive vehicles that riding in Ohio is an obvious are used for trail riding are also issue facing this user group. street legal, vehicle registration Government and private orga- revenue is not deposited in the nizations should utilize the State Recreation Vehicle Fund. Recreational Trails Program As a result, there are no state (RTP) as a means for increasing funds specifically earmarked for and improving motorized trail four-wheel trail improvements. opportunities in Ohio. Four- wheel clubs should partner with

30 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 4

Helping Our Trails 31 Helping Our Trails A Statewide Strategic Approach

Developing a statewide trails system involves understanding a variety of complex issues and over- coming the problems that can impede planners, managers and developers in their efforts to create trails. A strategic approach must be taken to address those issues deemed most important by those who create, manage and use trails. The issues identified reflect what’s going on with trails on a statewide basis. Implementation strategies are identified for each of the strategic issues and are directed at all trail affiliates - government entities, planning agencies, trail managers, trail users, and other trail advocates.

Connecting Trails Implementation Strategies: Finding: 1. Agencies that administer financial assistance pro- Many existing trails are discontinuous and not connected grams for trails should give priority to trail propos- or easily accessible. als that connect to other trails, attractions, and act to fill in a gap in the trail system. The most critical gaps in the statewide system should be identified The key to a viable statewide trails system is connect- and quickly connected to the system. ing people and destinations. The goal of a statewide trails system for the 21st Century is one that con- 2. Trail advocates should actively pursue and par- nects communities, parks, natural areas, historic and ticipate in local, regional, and statewide planning cultural sites, places of employment, shopping and efforts to help facilitate the development of inter- other amenities with a seamless, comprehensive, and connected trail systems using a hubs and spokes easily accessible network of trails. Traditionally, trails approach. Hubs include parks, recreation areas, and have been located in parks, forests, or other natural historic and cultural sites. Spokes connect corridors areas, providing opportunities for recreation, exercise like trails, greenways, waterways and natural cor- and enjoying the natural environment. But today the ridors. Planning efforts should generate maps of emphasis is on developing trails outside of parkland. critical linkages and connections. Our future trails should connect to other states as well 3. Developers should include trails as a component as trail systems within the state. of their large developments to link internal trail systems with larger community, regional, and state- While many trail projects are, by necessity, developed wide trail systems. Providing trails and other open in phases or small segments, trail planners and devel- spaces can make property more desirable. opers should attempt to connect logical destinations, ensuring overall continuity.

32 CHAPTER 4 User Conflicts on Trails 2. Trail managers should involve users in the process of conflict resolution. For proposed trails, possible Finding: conflicts and their solutions should be addressed Many recreational trail uses are incompatible, resulting in during the planning and design stage with the conflicts between trail users. involvement of prospective users. Conflicts on pres- ent trails need to be addressed quickly with user Conflicts among recreational trail users can create an participation. Trail managers should understand undesirable experience. As trail use gains in popu- user needs, including their motivations, desires, and larity, pressure on existing and often limited trails preferences. Such customer information is critical increases. Where the separation of trail uses or paral- for anticipating and managing conflicts. lel trails is not feasible, trail managers designate them 3. Trail managers should promote trail etiquette, “multiple use.” By permitting more than one type of aggressively promoting responsible trail behavior. trail use, trail managers are creating situations that can Managers should use or modify existing educa- result in user conflicts. tional materials to better meet local needs. Target educational efforts, get the information into users’ Conflicts may occur within user groups as well, but hands as early as possible, and present it in inter- are most common between different user groups, such esting and understandable ways (Roggenbuck and as motorized and non-motorized trail groups. Hikers, Ham 1986). Trail managers should encourage posi- horseback riders, and mountain bikers often share the tive interaction among different users considering same backcountry trail; bicyclists, in-line skaters and users generally aren’t as different from one another pedestrians compete for the same paved asphalt on as they believe. Encourage interaction among users urban trails; and snowmobile riders and cross-country on and off the trail. This can be accomplished by skiers often share the same snow-covered trail. sponsoring “user swaps” or joint trail building or maintenance projects, by filming trail-sharing Trail users and managers are both responsible for videos, or by forming trail advisory councils. minimizing trail user conflicts. The Federal Highway 4. Trail managers should favor “light-handed manage- Administration, in cooperation with the National ment” – use the most “light-handed approaches” Recreational Trails Advisory Committee, produced an that will achieve area objectives. Intrusive design excellent resource on the topic of conflict on multiple- and coercive management are not compatible with use trails, entitled “Conflicts on Multiple-Use Trails: high-quality trail experiences. Trail managers Synthesis of the Literature and State of the Practice.” should monitor progress, including the ongoing Four of the 12 conflict solution strategies are summa- effectiveness of the decisions made and programs rized below. implemented. Conscious, deliberate monitoring is the only way to determine if conflicts are indeed Implementation Strategies being reduced and what changes in programs might be needed. 1. Trail managers should provide adequate trail opportunities, including sufficient trail mileage and a variety of experiences. This helps reduce conges- Trail Maintenance tion and allows users to choose the conditions that best suit their activity. Trail managers should mini- Finding: mize number of contacts in problem areas – each Proper trail maintenance is essential to ensure that trail contact among trail users (as well as contact with experiences are maximized. evidence of others) has the potential to result in conflict. So, as a general rule, reduce the number of Trail systems, like any infrastructure, are subject to user contacts whenever possible. This is especially wear and tear. Trails vary in maintenance requirements, true in congested areas and at trailheads. Disperse but all need to be maintained. Inadequate mainte- use and provide separate trails where necessary nance can compromise safety and negatively impact after careful consideration of the additional envi- a trail experience. Poor maintenance can also foster ronmental impact and lost opportunities.

Helping Our Trails 33 lack of public respect and encourage vandalism. Trail Private Land and Trails users want clean, safe and well maintained facilities; however, trail maintenance is often a problem for trail Finding: managers. Appropriate trail design and construction Opportunities for trails on private lands and adjacent to pri- will also influence how a trail is ultimately main- vate lands have not been maximized because of concerns tained. Substandard trails often must be redesigned with liability, privacy, litter, vandalism, theft and other real or reconstructed to minimize resource damage and and/or perceived problems. enhance safety and enjoyment. Securing adequate funding for trail maintenance operations can some- About 95 percent of the land in the state of Ohio is times be problematic. Generally, capital funds and/or privately owned. In many cases, it is not feasible for grant programs focus on trail acquisition and construc- public agencies to acquire lands or interests in lands tion while maintenance dollars can be difficult that could enhance a trail system. In urban commu- to secure. nities and rapidly growing areas, trails must often compete for remaining corridors and open spaces with One example of a tremendously successful partner- other interests, such as private developers. Developing ship for trail maintenance is known as the Ohio Trails interconnected trails systems often must involve part- Partnership (OTP). OTP is comprised of a diverse nerships and use agreements with private landowners group of hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders and/or developers. who have joined efforts to improve trails in Ohio State Parks and state forests. The OTP includes mem- Unfortunately, providing public access to private bers from the Buckeye Trail Association, the Ohio lands is hindered by a variety of factors. Potential Mountain Bike Association, and the Ohio Horsemen’s landowner liability is often cited as a primary obstacle Council. In 2003, OTP members donated more than to opening private land to public recreational use. 25,000 hours to improve ODNR managed trails. The State of Ohio does have a recreational use statue Combined with cash donations, the effort represented (O.R.C. 1533.181) that limits liability for landowners more that $250,000 in contributions to state trail who open their property for recreational use, but does projects. not eliminate the potential for litigation. Many are not aware of the law. Implementation Strategies A related problem is when a public agency or trail 1. Plan, design, and construct trails to minimize organization encounters opposition from adjacent maintenance costs and enhance visitor safety. landowners when trying to convert a corridor into a Maintenance costs should also be considered during trail, such as an unused railroad right-of-way. This is a the trail planning. Trail managers should develop classic problem in both urban and rural settings. Even trail operations and maintenance policies to cover if the trail organization can legally acquire the right- a wide range of issues, including allowable uses, of-way, adjacent landowners may oppose plans to security and law enforcement, signage, road cross- develop the trail for fear of vandalism, loss of privacy, ings, liability and encroachments. Trail managers litter, trespassing, among other concerns. Recent stud- should consider programs like “adopt-a-waterway” ies document that property values typically increase to facilitate trail maintenance. and crime does not follow trail construction. 2. Trail managers should exchange ideas on cost effective maintenance procedures, possibly through Implementation Strategies an on-line forum, such as entering into contractual agreements with the private sector or enlisting 1. Trail managers and users should partner with pri- the help of volunteers. Trail providers and groups vate landowners to gain their support and develop should seek the input and assistance of the Ohio incentives to open their lands for public use, thus Trails Partnership for recommendations concerning promoting the positive public benefits that trails can ways to reduce user conflicts on trails and on vari- create. Trail managers should implement methods ous trail design and maintenance concerns. that potentially minimize impacts on private land,

34 CHAPTER 4 such as land exchanges, easements, gifts or dona- Implementation Strategies tions and cornering, an option where a trail route goes across the smallest possible area, usually a 1. ODNR should establish a formal recreational trails corner of a given property. and greenways program to coordinate trail devel- opment in Ohio. This program could coordinate 2. Trail users and advocates should support legislation state financial assistance programs that benefit trails that would broaden and protect landowners adjacent and greenways, provide planning and technical to trails from trespassing liability. assistance, facilitate the formation of partnerships to undertake trail and greenway development, and serve as an advocate and clearinghouse for trail and State Agency Leadership greenway development in Ohio. Finding: 2. ODNR should explore and establish mechanisms and partnerships to prevent the loss of signifi- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, in partnership cant corridors such as canal lands and abandoned with other state agencies, should take a more proactive railroads that could be used for trail and greenway leadership role in planning, developing, managing, funding development and promoting a statewide system of trails. 3. ODNR should establish policies and programs that encourage trail development on its lands, adjacent In 1972, the Ohio General Assembly passed S.B. lands, or that connect to its lands in partnership 247 and directed the Ohio Department of Natural with other government agencies, private landown- Resources (ODNR) to “plan and administer a state ers, and trail groups. system of recreational trails that interconnect…places of scenic or historic interest to the maximum extent 4. ODNR should adopt a process and establish formal possible.” Despite many accomplishments by ODNR criteria for nominating and designating a system and other government agencies and private interests, of State Recreational Trails. Criteria could include the dream of a statewide trail system is still largely the number and type of users served, proximity unrealized. Many challenges exist, including fund- to population centers, geographic representation, ing, private and adjacent landowner concerns, agency natural and scenic qualities, costs, linkages, avail- roles in developing a statewide system, user conflicts, ability, access facilities, and public acceptance. establishing trail connections and creating partnerships ODNR should also develop a process for monitor- to facilitate the trails system. ing designated components to ensure its features and resources are maintained. Other state agencies including the Ohio departments 5. The state of Ohio should develop a strong railroad of Transportation (ODOT), Development (ODOD), corridor preservation policy that ensures all aban- and Health (ODH) also can play important roles in doned railroads undergo a timely and thorough the ultimate development of a statewide trails system. evaluation for potential public use. An interagency ODOT administers the Transportation Enhancement committee should be established to file for railbank- Program and other programs that provide valuable ing under section 8(d) of the National Trails System financial assistance for bicycle and pedestrian projects Act on each railroad abandonment in Ohio that has statewide. The ODOD’s Office of Travel and Tourism potential to contribute to the state’s future trail or is in the business of promoting and marketing Ohio’s transportation systems. natural and recreational resources. ODH plays a key 6. ODNR should partner with the Department of role in increasing awareness of the importance of Development’s Office of Travel and Tourism to adopting healthier behaviors and lifestyles of Ohioans. develop a major statewide trails promotional This includes promoting outdoor physical activity program. such as trail use.

Helping Our Trails 35 Trails as Transportation resources. Safety is a primary concern when con- Alternatives sidering trails for alternate transportation uses. No transportation route will be successful unless it is safe Finding: for potential users. Opportunities for utilizing trails for human powered trans- portation alternatives and commuter access are limited in Implementation Strategies Ohio despite the documented benefits of such alternatives. 1. Transportation planners should give greater empha- sis to non-motorized and multi-modal approaches While the recreational benefits of trails are well under- to meeting congestion and air quality issues while stood, the establishment of transportation alternatives at the same time increasing alternate transportation is being cited more and more by planners as a reason and recreation opportunities. for creating trails. Indeed, most recreational trails can be used for transportation purposes just as many trails 2. The Ohio Department of Transportation should ana- developed primarily for transportation can be utilized lyze the need for incorporating bicycle, pedestrian, for recreation. The 2001 Ohio Trails Participation and access features into new roadway projects. To Survey found that nearly 20 percent of Ohio house- better accommodate bicyclists, pedestrians and holds used trails for transportation purposes. paddlers, ODOT should retrofit existing transporta- tion infrastructure, where feasible, during scheduled The federal landmark Intermodal Surface maintenance. ODOT should coordinate with all Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) metropolitan planning organizations in evaluating established a number of new programs that empha- the need for and design of bicycle and pedestrian sized non-motorized modes of transportation. ISTEA facilities. recognized that trails could serve as non-motorized 3. Metropolitan Planning Organizations should work corridors between population centers and other points with their member local jurisdictions to develop of interest, could help reduce air pollution by reducing bicycle and pedestrian plans and identify gaps or dependency on the automobile, integrate with mass missing links to trail systems. Local agencies and transit systems, and increase transportation safety. planners should, where feasible, integrate alterna- ISTEA also directed states and metropolitan areas to tive transportation opportunities into all road plan- develop long range plans for bicycle transportation ning, design, and reconstruction projects. and pedestrian walkways.

The successor to ISTEA, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), reiterated the Trail Information and importance of transportation enhancements as a viable Education component of transportation systems by expanding Finding: enhancement funding and the number of categories Providing information on trail opportunities and their benefits eligible for assistance. Congress is developing the suc- as well as educating trail users about etiquette and ethics is cessor to TEA-21. It is expected that the new surface important to assure quality trail experiences. transportation legislation will continue many of the programs that have benefited trails in the past, such as transportation enhancements, recreational trails, Despite efforts by trail managers to provide good scenic byways, mass transit in parks, and safe routes to information on trails, many current and potential users schools. cite the lack of information as a major reason they do not use trails. Trail managers are challenged to Trails as transportation alternatives are particularly provide information on where to go for a particular significant in urban and suburban settings. Properly activity and what to expect on trails. Many trails are designed trail systems can minimize isolation of under-utilized due to information and publicity gaps. neighborhoods and connect people to business areas, Trail managers cannot assume that all users know schools, recreation areas and other community where opportunities are located and/or how to find

36 CHAPTER 4 them. Trail managers must continuously assess their some cases, community officials, citizens, businesses public information programs and actively market their or adjacent landowners may be opposed to trails. In trail systems. particular, adjacent landowners share concerns about deviant behavior such as trespassing, littering, and Implementation Strategies vandalism. 1. The State of Ohio, in partnership with trail groups, Partnerships with volunteers can also be used in a should establish a state clearinghouse of trail- number of ways like trail maintenance. Adopt-a-trail related information, data, and other forms of programs are popular but usually must be coordinated technical assistance, making it easily accessible to by an agency representative to maximize effectiveness. the public. The Ohio Department of Transportation is encouraged to distribute relevant bicycle and Many trails can also involve situations where citizens, pedestrian material and support programs that organizations or agencies are interested in non-trail promote, educate, and enforce the rules of the road uses that require cooperation and/or partnerships, such by bicyclists and pedestrians. Trail agencies and as overhead utilities, driveways and roads. However, organizations should conduct periodic conferences some non-trail uses, if carefully planned and moni- and workshops to provide training and networking tored, could be compatible with the trail development opportunities on trails. and could result in financial benefits for the trails managing agency. 2. Trail managers and advocates should improve efforts to inform and disseminate information on Through partnerships, funding options can be available trail opportunities in Ohio. This includes explored. While local units of government are typi- information on websites and signage along high- cally the trail managers in Ohio, federal and state ways. Trail managers should improve educational financial assistance programs have played a key efforts on responsible trail ethics and stewardship to role in the development of many trails in Ohio. recreational user groups and the general public. Maintaining these financial partnerships is vital for the development of a statewide trail system. 3. The Ohio Department of Development’s Office of Travel and Tourism should partner with trail agen- One of the most successful partnerships in Ohio that cies to develop a major statewide trails promotional has provided trail and numerous other benefits is the program. Ohio and Erie Canal Corridor Coalition (OECCC). Established in 1989, the OECCC is a private, non- profit organization working on the development of the Partnerships Ohio & Erie Canal Heritage Corridor. The OECCC is comprised of over 50 partner groups representing Finding: business, industry, government agencies, park dis- Partnerships are critical in the planning, funding, develop- tricts, non-profit organizations, community groups, ment and management of trails and trail systems. and numerous individual citizens. The OECCC provides educational programs, events, and publica- Partnerships among government agencies, private tions while developing working relationships with organizations, and citizens are becoming increasingly its numerous corridor partners to preserve and inter- pret the natural, historic, and recreational resources popular to address various public needs, including throughout the corridor. recreational trail development. Partnering provides a means to address concerns, gain awareness and under- standing, and achieve recreational goals. Implementation Strategies 1. Trail advocates should work with trail users and Because of their linear nature, trails typically pass owners of linear corridors, such as railroads and through a number of political jurisdictions and impact rights of way, to encourage their involvement in numerous parties. As a result, creating and managing the creation of a statewide trails system. Literally trails often requires cooperation and coordination. In thousands of miles of pipelines, water and sewer

Helping Our Trails 37 lines, levees, roads, railroads, and fiber optic lines help the user gain an understanding of the environ- cross Ohio’s landscape. Partnerships should be ment through which the trail passes. developed where trail system gaps can be filled. 2. The federal government should continue its Implementation Strategies partnership role in funding the acquisition and 1. Strategically located access points, trailheads, development of trails through such programs as or staging areas are particularly important con- Transportation Enhancements, Recreational Trails, siderations when planning and developing trails. and the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Facilities available at a trailhead can provide the 3. Agencies and organizations that are involved in user with a critical first impression before trail use. trail planning, development, funding, safety educa- Where feasible, trailheads should be fully acces- tion, technical assistance, and promotion should sible to trail users with disabilities. establish a formal working group to address mutual 2. Trail signage should be planned on a trail-by-trail concerns to integrate trail development into ongo- basis but generally should be clearly visible, placed ing and future projects where feasible. at consistent distances from the trail, and easy to 4. Trail advocates and managers should establish understand. International symbols should be used partnership agreements to market and publicize the wherever possible. multiple benefits that trails provide and help dispel 3. A greater emphasis should be placed on the design any perceived negative aspects of trails. and planning of staging areas that offer access to more than one type of recreational activity or Trail Support Facilities participant. The integration of amenities at dual- purpose staging areas would allow participants to Finding: secure recreational equipment, thus enhancing the Adequate support facilities are needed for trail systems to quality of the recreational experience. maximize the recreation and transportation opportunities and experiences of trail users. Trails Funding Trail support facilities, sometimes referred to as trail- Finding: head and trailside facilities, can provide a variety of amenities. Such amenities could include parking areas, Funding programs for the planning, design, acquisition, restrooms, drinking water, interpretive areas, sitting development and maintenance of trails are inadequate and areas with benches, signage, shelters, concessions, the administration of existing grant programs should be trash receptacles, campsites, picnic areas, lighting, tie improved. ups, emergency telephones, bicycle racks, fencing, bollards, and information kiosks. Despite the availability of dedicated and multipurpose state and federal grant programs, financing for trails The type and extent of support facilities provided continues to be a critical issue. The need for additional depends on a number of factors including levels of and funding far exceeds what is available from existing types of use, physical setting, level of maintenance sources. Funding trails involves much more than just required, management philosophy, and the financial acquisition and development costs. Many trail projects resources of the managing agency. also involve costly planning and engineering elements Trail signage can also affect user experiences and and associated costs such as title work, surveys and should not be overlooked. Signs can help a user environmental and archaeological assessments. These navigate a trail by providing directions, warning of costs can be especially burdensome to small public potential hazards, interpreting natural features, provid- agencies or private groups that do not have large ing information about trail conditions, and informing budgets or access to professional engineering/planning users about trail rules and etiquette. Interpretive signs staffs. are particularly important in many trail settings as they

38 CHAPTER 4 Adequate funding for management and maintenance such as the Transportation Enhancements program, of trails is another concern. As trail use increases, the Recreational Trails Program, and the Land and trail managers must increase maintenance of trails to Water Conservation Fund program. ensure visitor safety and provide high quality experi- 5. Trail managers should pursue private sources of ences. Unfortunately, many of the existing funding funds for trail projects such as corporations, non- programs do not allow trail maintenance operations/ profit organizations and foundations. Establishing expenses as an eligible project cost. user fees for trails should also be explored. Trail managers should consider using non-traditional Some of the policies and procedures used by agen- sources of funds, e.g., transportation, tourism, and cies that administer the major financial assistance community development funds, to finance trail programs for trails have been criticized. Complaints projects. include the perceived lack of program flexibility, lack of publicized project selection criteria, excessive envi- 6. Trail managers should consider supporting efforts ronmental justification procedures and engineering to create funding assistance for trail operations and standards, and the lack of coordination with other trail maintenance with grant monies that are earmarked and recreation programs. for acquisition and development. 7. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources should While most of the existing programs used to acquire establish a special task force to determine alterna- and build trails are public funds, there are a number tives for developing and financing motorized recre- of non-traditional sources of funds that trail managers ational trails in Ohio. can and should pursue. Potential private sector funds include foundation grants, business/corporate contri- butions, special events and fundraisers, and individual Trails Accessible to All donations. Finding: Implementation Strategies To the maximum extent possible, trails should be designed and constructed to be accessible to people with disabilities. 1. Trail advocates and agencies should support efforts to establish a dedicated, ongoing source of state funds for trail development. The Clean Ohio Trails The passage of the “Americans with Disabilities Act” program was originally authorized for four years means that heightened consideration must be given to (2002-2005) and should be established as a per- making trails accessible to all users. If the needs of the manent program. Trail advocates should consider disabled are accommodated in recreation facilities, the sponsoring program amendments that would needs of other able-bodied users are also satisfied. broaden the scope of eligible projects, allow more agencies to participate, and clarify program A federal committee currently is developing guide- priorities. lines on accessibility rules for trails and other outdoor recreation facilities. The draft guidelines generally 2. A special fund that could be used to acquire signifi- recognize the uniqueness of each trail, different cant corridors that are in danger of being sold or recreational settings, and expectations of accessibil- lost to development should be established. ity in establishing design standards. Deviations from 3. Agencies that administer financial assistance pro- the proposed guidelines are permitted if compliance grams that benefit trails should regularly evaluate causes substantial harm to cultural, historic, or natural these programs and implement changes consistent features; alters the nature of the settings or purpose of with constituent and advisory board feedback. the facility; requires construction that is prohibited by 4. Trail advocates and agencies should support the federal, state, or local regulations; and is not feasible reauthorization of and maximum appropriations for due to terrain or prevailing construction practices. federal programs that can benefit trail development. These include, but are not limited to, programs

Helping Our Trails 39 While many of the newer recreation facilities in Ohio are in compliance with accessibility standards, many others need adaptations or retrofitting to provide access. In some areas, providing complete accessibil- ity could negatively impact the resource base for the recreational experience of others. In some circumstances, an option could be to make sections of a trail accessible. Where possible, however, recreation providers should balance these concerns with the need for uniform public access.

Implementation Strategies 1. Trail providers should develop their facilities and implement their programs in compliance with fed- eral and state statutes on accessibility. 2. The federal government should provide technical assistance to public recreation agencies to comply with provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the recommendations of the U.S. Access Board. 3. Trail providers should expand accessible trail opportunities and continue to distribute information on these trail opportunities.

40 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 5

Ohio’s Trail System 41 Ohio’s Trail System

Introduction A critical component of the state trails planning process is an ongoing effort to develop a comprehensive inventory of existing, planned and proposed trails in the state. This process has enabled ODNR to begin developing Geographic Information System (GIS) based maps that will assist agencies and organizations in trail planning efforts and help establish the basis for a statewide trails vision.

Trail corridors in this plan are categorized and color-coded in three ways: existing, planned, and potential. For purposes of definition, existing trails in this plan are those that are available for public use and are being actively managed and maintained by an agency or trail organization. Planned trails are corridors that are not yet open for use but are in some formal stage of planning, have been identified in a trails plan, or are actively being considered for trail development. An example of a planned trail would be a railroad corridor that is owned by a public agency but has not yet been developed or a corridor that has not yet been acquired but there are active efforts (e.g., a grant proposal has been submitted) by an agency to secure a right-of-way. A proposed trail is more conceptual in nature than a planned trail. It could be an abandoned railroad or a utility corridor that no public agency is actively pursuing but has the potential to some day be developed into a trail. There no doubt will be some inconsistencies in this identification system, especially when attempting to make precise differentiations between planned and proposed trails.

42 CHAPTER 5 Trail Classifications For planning and identification purposes, trail corridors have been further categorized into five classifications in this document: national, state, regional, county- wide, and community based trails. National trails are either dedicated components of the National Trails System or are actively being con- sidered for such status. Statewide trails are of sufficient distance and scope that they traverse and impact numerous regions in the state. Regional trails are those that are located in multiple counties or are planned for multi-county areas. Countywide trails are those that are, for the most part, out- side of local jurisdictions but stay within the geographic boundary of one county. Community trails are confined to a specific local juris- diction but could connect or have the potential to connect to larger systems. Again, this classification system is not perfect, but is an attempt to provide meaningful dif- ferentiation among a wide variety of trail systems. Trails in these five categories are identified on the various maps in this plan using the following numbering system: Trail Names component of the North Country national trails-1000s; statewide National Scenic Trail, the Buckeye The concept of a trail name seems trails-2000s; regional trails-3000s; Trail, and the Ohio to Erie Trail. simple enough. Nevertheless, countywide trails-4000s; and com- Trails that are part of a larger trail many individual trails might actu- munity based trails-5000s. ally be part of a larger system and system (and have multiple names) consequently could be referred create logistical identification to in a number of ways. A good problems on regional maps. As a example is ODNR’s 50-mile result, the maps might not neces- Little Miami State Park (LMSP)in sarily identify all of the possible southwestern Ohio. The LMSP trail names on each segment of a is a popular rail-trail that is also a trail.

Ohio’s Trail System 43 NATIONAL TRAILS

There are two national trails that tual study in 1975 that identified potential miles of the trail pass pass through Ohio, the North a 10-mile wide corridor in which through Ohio. Country National Scenic Trail and the trail route could ultimately be the American Discovery Trail. A third located. In 1982, the National Park The North Country Trail makes a trail, the Underground Railroad, is Service adopted a Comprehensive u-shaped sweep through Ohio. It included because of its status as a Plan for Management and Use enters the state from Pennsylvania National Millennium Trail. of the North Country Trail that near Negley (Columbiana County) gave several key directions to on a former railroad corridor and North Country National Scenic Trail the trail, including the vision as a to passes through a diverse array In March 1980, the North Country non-motorized, multi-use pedes- of public and private lands and National Scenic Trail (NCNST) trian trail. Today, the NCNST is a scenic/historic areas. It leaves the was officially authorized when 4,100+ mile trail that crosses seven state in northwestern Ohio (into Congress passed and President states from New York to North Michigan). For much of its route, Carter signed legislation (PL 96- Dakota. Approximately 1,050 the NCNST follows the Buckeye 199) that ultimately added eight new national scenic trails to the National Trails System. The con- cept of a “north country trail” was first proposed by the U.S. Forest Service in its 1965 “Nationwide System of Trails Study.” It was called the “Northern Country Trail” in that report and was included in the 1966 Department of the Interior publication entitled “Trails for America.” This report set the stage for the passage of the National Trails System Act in 1968. The name of the proposed route was changed to “North Country Trail” in that report.

When Congress passed the National Trails System Act in 1968, two trails – the Appalachian and Pacific Crest – were immedi- ately designated as National Scenic Trails. Fourteen other trail routes were named for study as potential additions to the system. The North Country Trail was one of those 14 potential trail routes. A diverse, multi-agency planning committee completed a concep-

44 CHAPTER 5 Trail, although significant sections do diverge from the Buckeye Trail or are planned to in various locations.

While more than 1,000 miles of the North Country Trail pass through Ohio, to date only 320 miles (approximately 30 percent) are “certified.” Certified sections are essentially segments that are man- aged in accordance with the poli- cies of the “Comprehensive Plan for Management and Use” and the responsible managing agency/ authority has granted permission to certify the trail as an official seg- ment of the North Country Trail. Many more miles of uncertified segments are usable and open for public use.

The National Park Service (NSP) administers the North Country Trail in cooperation with other government agencies, private organizations, and individual landowners. NPS’s responsibilities include: ensuring the development, protection, and maintenance of the trail; coordinating the activities of the many partners in the trail’s development/management; and providing technical and financial national network of volunteers, a person can walk or ride the entire assistance to cooperating interests. chapters, partner organizations and ADT today, Congress is consider- Because numerous public agencies government agencies to accom- ing legislation that would make the and private interests are participat- plish its missions. ADT a designated component of ing in the NCNST’s development, the national trails system. the type of trail, available support American Discovery Trail facilities, and rules and regula- The American Discovery Trail The ADT enters Ohio from the tions governing the use of the trail (ADT) is the nation’s first coast- west along two routes, converges varies from segment to segment. to-coast, non-motorized trail that just west of Cincinnati and exits stretches approximately 6,800 Ohio near Belpre (Washington The North Country Trail miles from Delaware to California. County) into West Virginia. The Association (NCTA) is a neutral The ADT is proposed as a new ADT routes in Ohio total approxi- non-profit organization that works breed of national trail, linking com- mately 510 miles. Like the North in partnership with the National munities, urban areas, and back- Country National Scenic Trail, Park Service to build, maintain country to serve as the backbone of the ADT follows the Buckeye and promote the North Country the national trails system. Although Trail through much of its route in Trail. The NCTA works through a Ohio’s Trail System 45 Ohio (from Chesterhill in Morgan been researched and documented County to Eden Park in Cincinnati) statewide and it is likely that and uses many of the least traveled hundreds more will be found in the public roads to connect to off-road future. The Underground Railroad sections. represents an important story in American and Ohio history. The American Discovery Trail Society, a nationwide non-profit The Friends of Freedom Society, organization, administers the Inc. (FOFS) and the Ohio affairs of the ADT and coordinates Underground Railroad Association the efforts of the many agencies (the research arm of FOFS) is a and organizations that manage grassroots, all-volunteer, non- and maintain the trail. Each state profit organization dedicated through which the ADT passes also to the research, identification, has a state coordinator who over- documentation and preservation of sees ADT trail development and Underground Railroad sites in Ohio. issues in that particular state. The FOFS was the driving force to get the Underground Railroad The Underground Railroad, designated as one of the nation’s 16 A National Millennium Trail National Millennium Trails, vision- ary trails that reflect defining aspects The Underground Railroad is neither in America’s history and culture. “underground” nor a “railroad” but rather a cultural trail representing a network of sites, routes and events that tell the story of the thousands of people who escaped from slavery and those who assisted them in their pursuit of freedom. Underground Railroad activities covered all of the states in the eastern half of the United States, as well as Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Ohio was an especially impor- tant Underground Railroad state since the Ohio River separated it from the slave-owning states of Kentucky and Virginia (now West Virginia); and Lake Erie separated it from Canada, the final destina- tion for many runaway slaves. As a result, Ohio is particularly rich in Underground Railroad resources. To date, more than 800 Underground Railroad sites have

46 CHAPTER 5 STATEWIDE T R A I L S

This plan recognizes two statewide BTA has developed a series of township roads. The goal of the trails, the Buckeye Trail and the Ohio detailed maps for 24 sections of the Buckeye Trail Association is to to Erie Trail. Both are long distance Buckeye Trail. To view or order eventually have the entire route of trails that are statewide in scope these maps, go to the BTA website, the trail off roads, but this will take and impact. www.buckeyetrail.org. In the field, a long time to accomplish. The blue blazes are used to identify the Buckeye Trail is primarily a foot- Buckeye Trail Buckeye Trail. path although portions are usable The Buckeye Trail winds for nearly for bicycling and horseback riding. 1,300 miles and reaches into every While the Buckeye Trail does corner of Ohio. First envisioned wind its way through numerous The Buckeye Trail is also recog- in the late 1950s as a trail that public and private lands, much of nized as Ohio’s only State Legacy would link the Ohio River to Lake it is located on low use county and Trail, a national program that was Erie, the Buckeye Trail eventu- ally evolved into a large loop, branching both north and east from Cincinnati. The separate routes now rejoin in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park south of Cleveland and complete the connection to Lake Eire.

The Buckeye Trail follows old canal towpaths, abandoned rail- roads, rivers, lakes, rural roadways, and numerous footpaths through both public and private lands. It passes through many state and local parks, state and national forests, small towns and urban areas alike.

The trail is administered and maintained by the Buckeye Trail Association (BTA), a non-profit volunteer organization, in partner- ship with numerous public agencies and private landowners. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Ohio Historical Society, the U.S. Forest Service (Wayne National Forest), Muskingum and Miami conservancy districts, and various metropolitan park districts and private landowners are active partners in the Buckeye Trail. The

Ohio’s Trail System 47 developed to call attention to the nation’s rail-trails and greenways, historic trails, cultural itineraries, recreation paths, waterways, and other alternative transportation corridors.

Ohio to Erie Trail The Ohio to Erie Trail (OET) was envisioned in the early 1990s as the backbone of an intercon- necting system of trails from the Ohio River to Lake Erie. When completed, the OET will be a mostly paved multi-purpose trail linking Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland following lands occu- pied by railroads and canals. In addition to connecting three of Ohio’s major cities, the OET will pass through quiet woods, lush agricultural lands and numerous small towns along its 439-mile route. In central Ohio, the OET breaks into two routes, the Heart of Ohio Trail and Panhandle Trail, before joining again in northeast Ohio.

To date, more than 220 miles of the OET have been developed and are open to the public There are, however, major sections of the OET that still must be acquired and developed or where the actual purchase land when no government be involved with developing and trail location must still be finalized. agency is willing or able to make managing sections of the OET Approximately 93 miles of right- the acquisition vital to the trail’s when it is completed. In addi- of-way must still be acquired to completion. OETF receives dona- tion, OETF works with private complete the acquisition phase of tions from numerous corporations, landowners and railroads to secure the OET and more than 200 miles organizations, and individuals to rights-of-way for the OET. The of the OET still must be developed. finance its operation. OETF is actively seeking funding from the Ohio General Assembly The Ohio to Erie Trail Fund The OETF works closely with gov- (capital budget earmarks) and the (OETF) was established in 1991 ernment agencies and trail groups U.S. Congress (federal transporta- to oversee the development of the that are building and maintaining tion legislation earmarks) to build OET. Its primary mission is to the OET. Numerous government the trail. build the OET by raising money to agencies (as many as 30-40) could

48 CHAPTER 5 The Ohio to Erie Trail Fund has identified a number 5. Approximately 9.8 miles of right-of-way must be of high priority areas for acquisition and development. acquired in the area of Orrville to Clinton. These priorities are listed below starting from the southern leg of the trail in Cincinnati. 6. Cleveland Section. Like Cincinnati and Columbus, completing the trail through Cleveland presents 1. Sawyer Point (Cincinnati riverfront) through the many challenges. The trail needs to be developed Village of Terrace Park. This section includes from Harvard Avenue north into the Flats area then the “Ohio River Trail” along the Ohio River from connect to the Lakefront Bikeway. The Cuyahoga downtown Cincinnati through Anderson Township County Planning Commission (CCPC), in coopera- and eventually connecting to the Little Miami State tion with numerous other partners in northeastern Park, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Ohio, has developed a conceptual plan for complet- (ODNR) 50-mile rail-trail park. The Hamilton ing this section of trail. County Park District, Anderson Township, and ODNR will be key players in getting this section completed. 7. Panhandle Section. Securing sections of right of way in the Panhandle section has been problem- atic. Specifically, there is opposition by railroads 2. Columbus Area. Getting the OET through/around to permit trail development adjacent to active rail Columbus has been a challenge since the trail was lines. Also, there is approximately 10 miles in initially conceived. Efforts are now focused on the Tuscarawas County from Newcomerstown to Stone acquisition of the Camp Chase easement west of Creek that needs development funds, including downtown Columbus. Additional efforts involve approximately $300,000 for tunnel renovation near securing a route through the downtown Arena Stone Creek. District and land owned by Ross Labs, Columbus State Community College in cooperation with Nationwide Insurance. Sections of the trail along Alum Creek north of Morse Road are being com- pleted by Columbus and Westerville.

3. Delaware County. Portions of the OET in Delaware County are completed, however, linking the trail through Galena and Sunbury is still a challenge and priority. The cities of Columbus and Westerville, Genoa Township, Preservation Parks of Delaware County ,and Delaware County Friends of the Trail are the key entities involved in completing unde- veloped sections in Delaware county.

4. The entire right-of-way through Holmes County is in public ownership; however, the southern sec- tion from Brinkhaven to Killbuck needs funding for development. Both ODNR and ODOT have committed development funds for a section in northern Holmes County (approximately 10 miles from Millersburg north to Fredricksburg in southern Wayne County).

Ohio’s Trail System 49 REGIONAL ASSESSMENTS

Introduction Loop trails, perimeter trails, and NORTHEAST OHIO To get a better perspective of similar recreational trails contained Ohio’s trails, the system is within a “park” boundary are not Overview reviewed on a regional basis- included in this plan. These types Northeast Ohio has one of the using the five tourism regions of trails certainly are components most well planned and extensive adopted by the Ohio Department of of the state trail system, pro- systems of recreational trails Development’s Division of Travel vide valuable outdoor recreation in Ohio. Northeast Ohio is the and Tourism. The format for opportunities, and sometimes home of the Ohio & Erie Canal each assessment includes a brief even link to larger trail systems. National Heritage Canalway and regional overview, references to Nevertheless, the focus of this plan the Cuyahoga Valley National the major trail systems, and some is the development of an inter- Park (CVNP). The national park’s discussion on a county basis where connected system of recreational Towpath Trail is considered the extensive trail planning and/or trails and most of those are outside spine of the canal way. Cleveland development has taken place. traditional parks. Metroparks’ “Emerald Necklace” is a national model of one of the The inventory of trails data to Maintaining an up-to-date inven- earliest efforts to develop a system follow was compiled from a tory of existing, planned and of linear, interconnected parks. A variety of sources including public proposed trails requires it be ever- lakefront bikeway is being planned meetings, various publications and changing, requiring constant revi- by a partnership of government websites, trail managers, and appli- sion as new trails are introduced agencies and private interests. cations for ODNR administered into the system. Information on The North Country National grant programs. Trails other than both existing and planned trails Scenic Trail enters the state from those portrayed on the regional should be submitted to the Ohio Pennsylvania in northeastern Ohio maps are still considered part of a Department of Natural Resources, and significant portions of the statewide system, especially if they Division of Real Estate and Land Buckeye Trail and the Ohio to Erie emphasize or provide links. The Management for inclusion in the Trail also span this region. trails featured in this plan focus on inventory. those that are located outside of The Northeast Ohio Regional Parks traditional parks, forests, or other Consortium has been studying lands (although some of the trails opportunities for linking existing do pass through these lands). parks and protecting river corri- dors for an eight-county portion of northeastern Ohio. The consortium developed a conceptual plan where more than 1,000 miles of new trails could be constructed in this region. In addition, a number of county and community trail plans have been completed in northeast Ohio. Public land managing agencies are successfully planning, acquiring, and developing numerous trails

50 CHAPTER 5

CUYAHOGA COUNTY that connect communities, provide the completion of the Lakefront Trail Number, Trail Name close to home recreation, and serve Bikeway, and the continued expan- 2001, Buckeye Trail as destinations for others.close sion of the Cleveland Metroparks’ 2002, Ohio to Erie Trail to home recreation, and serve as multi-use paths would establish the 2003, Towpath Connector 3007, Lakefront Bikeway destinations for others. foundation for a truly comprehen- 3025, Ohio and Erie National Heritage Canalway sive network of trails in Cuyahoga 4005, MetroParks Serving Summit County. Communities and trail County Bike & Hike Trail Cuyahoga County 4026, Harrison Dillard Trail groups are also enthused about There are about 15 miles of inter- 4074, Solon to Chagrin Falls Trail potential connections to these main 4079, Tinkers Creek Trail connecting trails within Cuyahoga arteries to provide recreational 4086, West Creek Greenway Trail County, according to the Cuyahoga 4120, Emerald Necklace Trail opportunities and alternative trans- County Greenspace Plan. The 4133, Big Creek Trail portation choices. 4134, Bradley Woods Reservation extension of the Towpath Trail into 4135, East 49th St the Cuyahoga Valley and the Flats, 4136, Euclid Creek Reservation Trail 4137, Garfield Park 4138, Huntington Reservation 4139, Mill Creek Trail Figure 5.7 4140, Mill Stream Run Reservation 4141, North Chagrin ReservationTrails 4142, State Road Park Trail 4143, Walworth Run 5047, City Trail Loop 5048, Treadway Creek Trail 5049, Brooklyn Heights Connector 5050, West Creek Connector 5051, Rockside Road Connector 5052, Quarry Creek Trail 5053, First Ring Loop 5054, Abrams Creek 5055, Dual Hub Corridor Bikeway 5056, Kingsbury Run Greenway Trail 5057, Garfield Boulevard Bikeway 5058, Broadway Greenway 5059, First Suburbs Loop 5060, Shaker Lakes Trail 5061, University Spoke 5063, Forest Park to Cain Park Trail 5064, Forest Hills Park 5065, Euclid Creek 5066, Euclid Chagrin Connector 5067, Oakwood Village Trails 5068, Tinkers Creek Trail 5069, Walton Hills Trail 5070, North Olmsted Trail 5071, Rocky River Bradley Connection 5073, Butternut Ridge 5074, Bradley Woods Connector 5075, Bay Bradley Trail Connection 5076, SOM Center Road Trail 5077, Brooklyn Center Connector 5079, Bacci Park Trail 5080, Euclid Quarry Trail

Ohio’s Trail System 53 Lorain County Medina County Stark County Lorain County Metroparks, in part- A Medina County Bike/Hike Plan The Stark County Park District nership with numerous communi- was completed in 2001 by a group spearheaded a planning process ties in the county, has developed a that included the Medina County that resulted in the Stark County countywide trail and bikeway plan Park District, the cities of Medina, Trail and Greenway Plan. The that envisions potential regional Brunswick, Wadsworth, and the Plan identifies no less than 20 connections as well as connections Village of Seville. The plan pres- existing and potential corridors between individual communities. ents a coordinated approach to the that would eventually comprise an development of a multi-purpose extensive countywide trail system. The backbone of this system is the trail system for Medina County Major trails include the Ohio to eastern portion of the North Coast with opportunity to provide several Erie Canal corridor trails, the Sippo Inland Trail. The trail was first con- links to trail systems and places of Valley Trail, a proposed Canton ceived in 1989 to go from Lorain interest in adjoining counties. Downtown Connector Trail, the County west to the outskirts of Louisville Trolley Trail, and the Toledo. The trail begins in Elyria Portage County Mahoning Valley Trail. and follows old railroad lands A coalition of agencies and orga- approximately 12 miles southwest nizations in Portage County has through Oberlin to Kipton. It con- developed an ambitious plan to tinues west toward Toledo. Lorain develop a countywide system of County also has a number of small multi-purpose trails that will also trail systems and planned bikeways provide linkages to adjacent coun- in communities like Avon, Avon ties. The backbone of the county Lake, Lorain, Sheffield, Sheffield system is called “The Portage”, Lake, and North Ridgeville. an east-west corridor that will eventually link with the Western There are three additional cor- Reserve Greenway, trails operated ridors that have been identified in by Metroparks Serving Summit Lorain County’s plan that could County, and the Ohio & Erie Canal enhance the system. The Elyria- Corridor. Medina connector would link the North Coast Inland Trail in Elyria Many segments of “The Portage” and travel north through Grafton are complete, while others are into Medina County along a rail- under construction or await fund- road right-of-way. The Amherst- ing. Segments have been devel- Wellington connector travels oped in the cities of Kent and from Amherst Township south to Ravenna, in Franklin Township, Wellington along another rail- and by the Portage County Park road right-of-way. Finally, Lorain District. Metroparks is planning the Pony Trail from the southern portion of Amherst through the city of Lorain to Lake Erie.

54 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 55 Summit County coordinating committee and Summit County is another north- received input from numerous eastern Ohio county that is for- agencies and organizations. The tunate to have its own trail and Plan provides a bold vision for a greenway plan. The Summit regional network of open spaces, County Trail and Greenway Plan cultural and natural resources was guided by a multi-agency linked together by public access. coordinating committee and This planning effort was completed received input from numerous in two phases. Phase 1 focused on agencies and organizations. The the area commonly referred to as Plan provides a bold vision for a the Canal Corridor. Phase 2, com- regional network of open spaces, pleted in 2001, focused on identify- cultural and natural resources ing local and regional connections linked together by public access. throughout the county. Numerous This planning effort was completed trails are identified in the Plan as in two phases. Phase 1 focused on priorities for future development, the area commonly referred to as including the extension of the tow- the Canal Corridor. Phase 2, com- path trail in downtown Akron. pleted in 2001, focused on identify- ing local and regional connections throughout the county. Numerous trails are identified in the Plan as priorities for future development, including the extension of the tow- path trail in downtown Akron. Summit County is another north- eastern Ohio county that is for- tunate to have its own trail and greenway plan. The Summit County Trail and Greenway Plan was guided by a multi-agency

56 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 57 The Great Ohio Lake to River Cuyahoga Valley Towpath Trail, the Washington, D.C., metropolitan Greenway the Canalway National Scenic area. The Great Ohio Lake to River Byway, and the Cuyahoga Valley Greenway is envisioned as an Scenic Railroad as it goes south The Tri State Trail is planned as approximately 110-mile long cor- through Cuyahoga, Summit, Stark two (north and south) corridors ridor of protected open space that and Tuscarawas counties. Along with connecting corridors on both will connect Lake Erie at Ashtabula its route, numerous public agen- sides of the Ohio River (from Harbor with the Ohio River around cies and private organizations have East Liverpool to Bridgeport in East Liverpool. This greenway developed various segments of Ohio). Both corridors originate in will include trail development that multi-purpose trails that serve as Zoarville. The North Corridor is will be built on railroad lands and the spine of the canal way. These more than 93 miles in length and adjacent corridors running through agencies work in cooperation with will eventually connect Zoarville farmlands, woodlands, along the non-profit Ohio & Erie Canal to Chartier’s Creek, Pennsylvania. waterways, and over gently roll- Corridor Coalition (OECCC) to Approximately 25 percent (23 ing hills. Individual components preserve, interpret, and develop miles) of this section is con- of this greenway system are being the natural, historic and recreation structed, including the Conotton protected and developed by an resources along the Ohio & Erie Creek Trail in Harrison County. array of park districts, local com- Canal. OECCC also works in part- More than 50 percent of the North munities and private organizations. nership with the Cleveland-based Corridor would be on shared Approximately 39 miles of trail Ohio Canal Corridor and the Ohio roadways. Interstate connections have been built to date. & Eric Canal Association, the man- are being considered on the Ft. agement entity of the canal way. Steuben Bridge and the Veteran Some individual segments of Memorial Bridge. the greenway are referred as Ohio to Erie Trail the Western Reserve Greenway The two routes of the Ohio to Erie The South Corridor is approxi- (Ashtabula and Trumbull coun- Trail (OFT) converge in north- mately 138 miles in length and will ties), the Mill Creek Metroparks eastern Ohio. Major sections are connect Zoarville to Washington, Bikeway (Mahoning County) and awaiting development in Holmes Pennsylvania. The South Corridor the Little Beaver Creek Greenway and Wayne counties (Heart of would follow roads south from Trail (Columbiana County). Major Ohio) as well as Coshocton and Zoarville through Dover, New uncompleted sections include a Tuscarawas counties (Panhandle). Philadelphia, Uhrichsville, and segment from Ashtabula Harbor to Completing the trail north of Dennison on its way to the exist- south of Interstate 90, sections in Harvard Avenue in Cleveland to ing National Road Bikeway in St. southern Trumbull and Mahoning the Flats area is another general Clairsville. Proposed on- and off- counties, and major sections priority. road sections would take the trail through Columbiana County. to Bridgeport where it could cross Tri State Trail the Ohio River on the U.S. 40/250 (National Road) bridge. Ohio & Erie Canal National The Tri State Trail is a combina- Heritage Canalway tion of existing and planned trails The Ohio & Erie Canal National and shared-roadway bicycle routes Heritage Canalwayis a 110-mile that will eventually link the tri- heritage greenway that primarily state area of Ohio, West Virginia, follows the route of the old Ohio and Pennsylvania. Ultimately, this & Erie Canal through four north- system would provide linkages eastern Ohio counties. Starting in to the Great Ohio Lake to River the Cleveland Flats area near Lake Greenway (and Lake Erie) and to Erie, the canal way includes the western Pennsylvania, through the north panhandle of West Virginia to

58 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 59 SOUTHEAST OHIO

Overview The southeast portion of Ohio is Recreational trail development out- arguably the most scenic region side of traditional parks and forests in the state and the home of many is somewhat limited in southeast large public land holdings that Ohio. This area is not as heavily serve as major tourist attractions populated as other regions in Ohio while providing a multitude of and there are few planning efforts outdoor recreational opportunities. aimed at developing interconnected Virtually all of these lands have trail systems. There are, however, extensive systems of recreational some significant efforts in various trails. Major sections of the North stages of planning and development Country National Scenic Trail, the that will make this region an even American Discovery Trail and the more important recreation and Buckeye Trail pass through many of tourist area. these public lands as they traverse southern Ohio counties and commu- nities. There is also a possibility of someday using remaining Ohio & Erie canal lands south of Columbus to eventually connect to Portsmouth on the Ohio River.

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Gallia County Hike and Bike Trail connects the cities of Nelsonville Triangle Trail is approximately The Gallia County Hike and Bike and Athens. A unique feature of 52 miles in length that will be Trail is envisioned as a 28-mile the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway developed primarily on abandoned trail along a former CSX railroad is that it links Ohio University in railroad rights-of-way. It is a clas- right-of-way. The trail extends Athens and Hocking College in sic partnership project involving south along the Ohio River Valley Nelsonville. The City of Athens Tri-County Trail, Inc., the National to the City of Gallipolis. After recently extended the Hockhocking Park Service, the Ross County Park leaving Gallipolis, the right-of- Adena Bikeway with the comple- District, and other local govern- way winds northwest through the tion of the East State Street ment entities. unglaciated Appalachian foothills Bikeway with plans to possibly of Gallia and Vinton counties. extend the trail to Strouds Run To date, approximately one-half State Park. of the proposed 52 miles have The O.O. McIntyre Park District been acquired and/or developed. has developed sections of the Muskingum River Greenway Significant segments between Gallia County Hike and Bike The Muskingum River is a rich Chillicothe and Greenfield and Trail. The Park District owns or cultural and natural resource that Greenfield and Washington Court has purchased easements on a is predominately located in south- House must still be acquired. majority of the 28 miles of right- eastern Ohio. The Muskingum of-way, although there are three Valley Park District and the City Tri State Trail small segments north of the Village of Zanesville have developed trails The proposed southern corridor of Bidwell that are not in public along the northern section of the of the Tri State Trail is located ownership. Future development river corridor. There is also poten- in the southeast region (see the will focus on the sections south of tial to develop additional segments northeast regional assessment for Bidwell. of recreational trail along sections more information). The Tri State of railroad right-of-way south all Trail includes the National Road Great Guernsey Trail the way to the City of Marietta on Bikeway in St. Clairsville. The The Great Guernsey Trail is the Ohio River. Such a trail system proposed sections include signed envisioned as a countywide trail could eventually connect a series shared roadways and the additional system that will eventually link to of locks and dams that are com- use of railroad rights-of-way. other regional trail systems and the ponents of the Muskingum River Crossing the Ohio River to connect Buckeye Trail. One phase of the State Park to the City of Marietta’s to trail systems in West Virginia is Great Guernsey Trail would mostly Bike Trail. a significant development barrier. follow abandoned railroad lands from the City of Cambridge north Tri-County Triangle Trail to the Village of Kimbolton and Significant segments of the Tri- eventually link to Salt Fork State County Triangle Trail are located in Park. An east-west section of the the southeast Ohio region. The Tri- Great Guernsey Trail is also pro- County Triangle Trail is proposed posed along a railroad right-of-way to link three cities in three south east of Interstate 77. central Ohio counties: Chillicothe in Ross County, Washington Court Hockhocking Adena Bikeway House in Fayette County, and The 17-mile Hockhocking Adena Greenfield in Highland County. Bikeway is one of the major exist- The Tri-County Triangle Trail ing trail systems in southeastern will eventually provide connec- Ohio. It follows the Old Columbus tions to Xenia, Dayton, Cincinnati and Hocking Valley Railroad and and Columbus. The Tri-County

Ohio’s Trail System 63 SOUTHWEST OHIO

Overview Southwest Ohio is another region Park districts and other local in the state that is characterized government agencies in southwest by extensive systems of intercon- Ohio have been particularly active nected recreational trails. For the in planning and developing trails. most part, these trail systems are In addition, the Miami Valley located in proximity to the popula- Regional Planning Commission tion centers along Interstates 71 and the Ohio Kentucky Indiana and 75, near riparian corridors, on Council of Governments have been old canal lands, and on abandoned leaders for some time in bicycle railroad rights-of-way. Southwest and pedestrian planning and devel- Ohio is home to one of the opment. state’s first and longest rail-trails, ODNR’s Little Miami State Park. The popularity of the state park helped stimulate interest in trails throughout the region. Segments of the North Country National Scenic Trail, American Discovery Trail, Buckeye Trail and Ohio to Erie Trail are also located in south- west Ohio.

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Great Miami River Trail the unincorporated areas around Greene County The Great Miami River Trail Middletown, most of the proposed Greene County has been a true (Bikeway), as planned, would right-of-way is owned by the leader in the rail-trail movement in extend more than 50 miles from Miami Conservancy District and Ohio since the mid-1980s. More Fairfield north through Hamilton Metroparks of Butler County. An than 60 miles of former railroad and Middletown in Butler County, “Extend the Trail Committee” was rights-of-way are now available Franklin in Warren County and established to oversee planning as multi-use paths. The Greene eventually to Dayton. About 60 and engineering issues while local County Commissioners, the Greene percent of the proposed trail has government agencies seek funds to County Park District, the City been completed, including 25 miles develop remaining sections of the of Xenia and other local govern- at the northern end in Dayton. In proposed trail. ment agencies have combined to Ohio’s Trail System 67 develop a truly impressive network The Greene County Park District nities are also proposed to pro- of trails that link communities, has extended the trail north of vide recreation and transportation schools, churches, parks, and busi- Hedges Road and there is now alternatives. A partnership of local nesses throughout the county and a continuous trail all the way to communities, state and federal to neighboring counties. Xenia Springfield in Clark County. The agencies, businesses, and citizens Station, in the City of Xenia, is an Hamilton County Park District, will work with the Mill Creek exact replica of the original tele- in partnership with the Anderson Restoration Project to implement graph office that once occupied the Township Park District and the the recommendations in the Master same location during the railroad City of Cincinnati, plans to eventu- Plan. era. Xenia Station now serves as a ally extend the trail south, linking hub and staging area for four major to Cincinnati’s downtown river- Montgomery County rail-trails: the Little Miami Scenic front area. Montgomery County is fortunate to Trail, the Creekside Trail, the Ohio have more than 60 miles of multi- to Erie Trail, and the Jamestown Miami County use trails throughout the county. Connector. A coalition of public agencies, pri- These trails have been built and vate organizations, and citizens has are maintained by the Miami The Jamestown Connector is the developed an ambitious concep- Conservancy District, Five Rivers only one of these that has not yet tual plan for developing a county MetroParks, the City of Dayton been completely developed. It bikeway that would link the cities and other local communities in the travels east from Xenia Station of Piqua, Troy and Tipp City and county. Many of these trails have to Jamestown and eventually on counties to the north (Shelby) and been built in riparian corridors and to Washington Court House in south (Montgomery). Portions of provide direct linkages to commu- adjacent Fayette County where it the bikeway will utilize remnants nities, parks, adjacent counties, and will connect with the Tri-County of the Miami & Erie Canal that are other areas of interest. Triangle Trail. parallel to the Great Miami River. Various local governments, the Ohio River Trail Little Miami State Park Miami Conservancy District, and Local officials have planned a In 1979, ODNR established a the Miami County Park District bike/hike trail along the Ohio River unique component in its state park are working on completing specific corridor since the early 1970s. The system with the official designa- segments of the bikeway. When Ohio River Trail includes both tion of the Little Miami State complete, the bikeway will enable east and western riverfront seg- Park (LMSP). The state park is users to experience a variety of ments and will eventually stretch approximately a 50-mile long historic and cultural sites while to New Richmond in Clermont linear park that parallels the Little providing recreational and trans- County. The Riverfront East Bike Miami River. A paved multi-pur- portation opportunities. Trail would start at the central pose trail that meanders with the riverfront in downtown Cincinnati river through four counties is the Mill Creek Greenway and connect to the Lunken Bike primary recreational development In 1998, the Mill Creek Restoration Trail where it could intersect with in the park. A small section of the Project, in partnership with an the Little Miami Scenic Trail as park through the Village of Terrace advisory committee and a team of it makes its way north through Park in Hamilton County has not consultants, completed the Mill Anderson Township to Milford. yet been fully developed but is Creek Greenway Master Plan. The From Lunken Airport the trail open for use. Closing this gap is Plan outlines a number of different would also continue east approxi- considered a high priority to make projects, including trails, along 28 mately 16 miles through Anderson the LMSP a seamless trail that miles of the Mill Creek corridor Township to New Richmond. The will eventually go to downtown from Liberty Township in Butler Western Riverfront Trail would Cincinnati. County south to the Ohio River. A ultimately extend to Shawnee series of connecting trails between Lookout Park. the Mill Creek and nearby commu- 68 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 69 A formal planning committee was NORTHWEST OHIO established and is coordinating the Ohio River Trail project. The com- mittee raised money for a feasibil- Overview Major segments of the Miami ity study to determine the trail’s With a few exceptions, northwest & Erie Canal are still in public alignment. A formal route was Ohio is a sparsely populated region ownership in northwest Ohio. recommended and future funding that is dominated by intensive Many of these old canal lands options are now being explored. agricultural land use. There are, however, some significant trail are the foundation for the North Country National Scenic Trail, the Tri-County Triangle Trail and greenway initiatives in this Buckeye Trail, ODNR’s Miami Two of the three counties region that involve development on the remains of the Miami & & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and (Highland and Fayette) that form trail systems operated by the the basis of the Tri-County Triangle Erie Canal, abandoned railroads, and along riparian corridors. In Metropark District of the Toledo Trail are located in the southwest Area and other local agencies. region (see southeast regional addition, the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments The North Coast Inland Trail, the assessment for more information). Wabash Cannonball Trail, and the A segment from the Fayette/Ross (TMACOG) has established a Pedestrian and Bikeways Slippery Elm Trail are long dis- County line into Washington Court tance rail-trails in the region. The House is scheduled for develop- Committee that is actively pursuing the development of a comprehen- Hancock Park District (Heritage ment in the near future. Major Trail – Blanchard River) and City sections of the planned trail from sive, interconnected network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in of Lima (Ottawa River Trail) are Washington Court House south to developing important trail net- Greenfield must still be acquired. the Toledo-Lucas County region and adjacent counties. works along river corridors in their respective jurisdictions.

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Ohio’s Trail System 73 Heritage Trail trail system; the Buckeye Trail; and natural and recreational value of the The Heritage Trail covers about 20 the North Country National Scenic canal and serve as a clearinghouse miles along the Blanchard River Trail. for information for canal-related in Hancock County. The western events and information. MECCA trailhead is located near Litzenberg Miami & Erie Canal also works to strengthen canal Memorial Woods. The trail trav- Major segments of the old tow- partnerships and supports the des- els east toward downtown Findlay path of the Miami & Erie Canal ignation of the canal as a national along the river corridor. Along remain intact in Northwest Ohio. heritage corridor. its way the trail connects various Although the canal lands represent parks, historic sites, reservoirs and a very narrow corridor of public North Coast Inland Trail other landmarks with a variety of ownership, they provide an almost The North Coast Inland Trail was trail surfaces and in different set- continuous route for a trail where first conceived as a regional rail- tings. Users can experience both little other opportunities exist. This trail in 1989 that was planned to rustic, natural environments as well is especially true between Delphos go from the east side of the Toledo as urban conditions along paved in Allen County and Lockington in metro area to Lorain County. There bike paths and downtown Findlay southern Shelby County. ODNR is are now plans to possibly extend Riverwalks. The Hancock Park responsible for a 40-mile segment the trail and/or link to other trails District and the City of Findlay are that is managed as the Miami & (such as the Wabash Cannonball) to still developing specific segments Erie Canal Trail. cover an entire east-west route that of the Heritage Trail in partnership would eventually link Pennsylvania, with various businesses and volun- North of Delphos, large intact sec- Michigan, and Indiana through teer groups. tions of the canal are still in public northern Ohio. ownership in Putnam, Paulding, Lucas and Wood Counties Defiance, Henry, and Lucas coun- Significant segments of the original Lucas and Wood Counties have an ties. Two state parks, Mary Jane North Coast Inland Trail must still extensive network of existing and Thurston and Independence Dam, be acquired and/or developed. A planned recreational trails and bike have remnants of the old canal. The major gap exists in Huron County routes that, when completed, will Metropark District of the Toledo where major sections of the right- service virtually all areas of the Area manages four other parks that of-way are in public ownership but counties. Connections to adjacent have remnants of canal lands in trail development has been delayed. counties are also envisioned. Under Lucas County. A 10-mile section between Fremont the leadership of TMACOG’s and Elmore is awaiting develop- Pedestrian and Bikeways A future priority will be to find ment while another section in Committee, a bicycle/trails plan has viable public agencies to pro- northwest Ottawa County must still been integrated into the council’s tect and manage the remaining be acquired. A coalition of park regional transportation plan. The canal lands in northwest Ohio. districts and other government enti- plan identifies a number of trails The Miami-Erie Canal Corridor ties in northwest Ohio is working and connecting spurs that exist or Association (MECCA) is a non- to acquire and develop remaining will be priorities for future develop- profit organization created in sections of the North Coast Inland ment. These include the University/ 1996 to champion the cause of the Trail. Parks Trail; the Wabash Cannonball Miami & Erie Canal. MECCA Trail; the Slippery Elm Trail; the focuses most of its attention on a Wabash Cannonball Trail North Coast-Wabash Connector; 55-mile stretch of publicly owned The Wabash Cannonball Trail is future Swan Creek, Ottawa River, canal lands from Delphos to Piqua. envisioned as a more than 60-mile and Portage River greenways; an MECCA’s goal is to raise aware- multi-use rail-trail to accommodate Oregon-East Toledo-Perrysburg ness of the historical, educational, hikers, bicyclists, equestrians, inline

74 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 75 inline skaters, and cross-country CENTRAL OHIO skiers. The Wabash Cannonball Trail is one of Ohio’s longest Overview rail-trails in four Ohio coun- Recreational trail planning and ties - Fulton, Henry, Lucas, and development in the central Ohio Williams. The trail is actually region has been a mixed bag. comprised of two rail lines that Government agencies and trail converge in Maumee at Jerome advocates in Franklin and Licking Road. The “North Fork” runs east- counties in particular have been west for 46 miles from Maumee to leaders while efforts in many within 15 miles of the Indiana state other central Ohio counties have line near Montpelier. The “South lagged or met significant oppo- Fork” takes a southwesterly direc- sition. The cross-state Ohio to tion from Maumee for 17 miles Erie Trail passes through the to the edge of Liberty Center in central Ohio region and complet- Henry County. ing the trail through Columbus and Franklin County has been a The landowning partners – Lucas significant challenge (see narra- County, City of Maumee, City tive on Ohio to Erie Trail). Knox of Wauseon, the Village of County is the home of the popu- Whitehouse, the Metropark lar Kokosing Gap and Mohican District of the Toledo Area, and the Valley trails and there are plans to Northwestern Ohio Rails-to-Trails develop additional connections to Association Inc. – are all devel- adjacent counties. Interest in trail oping and maintaining different development has also intensified in segments. The trail is paved in Lancaster (Fairfield County) with Lucas County and will have both the Heritage Trail network while paved and unpaved sections in the agencies in Delaware, Logan and remaining counties. Portions of Pickaway counties are exploring the trail are certified segments of trail networks. the North Country National Scenic Trail and a spur from the Wabash is envisioned as providing an even- tual link to the state of Michigan. Other links are envisioned that would link the Wabash to the Maumee River corridor, Secor Metropark, and the University/ Parks Trail. A link to the North Coast Inland Trail is partially completed.

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Franklin County countywide or regional trail The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning systems. In addition to their Commission (MORPC) has recreation facilities, community 78 completed two significant plan- trail systems can provide valuable 79 ning efforts in recent years that alternative transportation opportu- have significant recreational trail nities by encouraging residents to 38 bicycle or walk to work, shop, run 39 implications. The Franklin County Greenways Plan was a multi-juris- errands, or visit family and friends. dictional planning effort aimed at Communities in central Ohio that preserving and protecting stream have or are developing extensive corridors in central Ohio. The local systems include Dublin, Greenways Plan included recom- Gahanna, Grove City, New Albany, mendations for developing inter- Reynoldsburg, Westerville, and connected recreational trails within Worthington. river corridors and acquiring scenic easements whenever possible. In 1999, the planning commission Licking County updated its regional bicycle and There are almost 40 miles of pedestrian plan to provide a plan- recreational trails throughout ning guide for local jurisdictions Licking County. They range from to develop an integrated regional the more than 14-mile Thomas bikeway network in central Ohio. J. Evans rail-trail that connects Johnstown to Newark to the four- The City of Columbus has long mile Blackhand Gorge bikeway been a leader in recreational trail along the Licking River in the development in central Ohio. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Since the late 1960s, Columbus Preserve east of Newark. Many has been developing trails along of the trails in Licking County are riparian corridors, with primary vital components of the Panhandle investments along the Scioto and route of the Ohio to Erie Trail as Olentangy Rivers. In more recent it makes its way to northeastern years, trail planning and develop- Ohio on to Cleveland. Completing ment along Alum and Blacklick the connection with Johnstown to creeks and I-670 have been a Centerburg (Knox County) is a pri- priority. ority. Connecting the trail to down- town Newark is another priority. Community trail systems are also commonplace in many central The Thomas J. Evans Foundation Ohio areas, especially suburban has been a driving force in devel- communities in Franklin County. oping Licking County’s trail Most of these systems satisfy the system by providing leadership and recreational and transportation financial assistance to many of the needs of the individual cities by trail projects in the county. The providing opportunities close to Licking County Park District, the home. They may follow a single Licking County Commissioners, route or include a more complex and the cities of Newark and Heath network of interconnected paths have also made major contributions and trails. In some cases, com- by developing and maintaining munity trails may connect with these trails. Ohio’s Trail System 79 80 INTERSTATE LINKAGES 81 Trails, both existing and planned, when the President’s Commission a number of interstate connec- 40 that connect Ohio to its neighbor- on Americans Outdoors recom- tions. Local interstate initiatives 41 ing states and beyond are important mended the creation of a national are more limited although there are components of Ohio’s trail system. network of greenways. several ongoing efforts to connect The concept of linking states and to neighboring states. See Table regions of the country has been an The two national trails -- North 5.1 for a summary of existing and overall vision of trail planners and Country National Scenic Trail potential interstate connections and advocates for years and was given and the American Discovery Trail Figure 5.17 for a graphic represen- heightened consideration in 1987 -- that pass through Ohio provide tation of these linkages.

Table 5.1 Existing/Potential Interstate Linkages

Ohio Location Trail/Route Adjacent State Status/Comments A 19.5-mile undeveloped railroad right-of-way Ashtabula County Pymatuning Valley Greenway Pennsylvania owned by Ashtabula County Parks from Dorsett, OH to Jamestown, PA Existing paved rail-trail approximately 12 miles long Mahoning County Stavich Trail Pennsylvania in Ohio and Pennsylvania Enters Ohio from Pennsylvania on former Montown Columbiana County North Country National Scenic Trail Pennsylvania railroad grade which ends near Fredricktown, OH. Jefferson County Tri State Trail West Virginia Option #1, Ft. Steuben Bridge Jefferson County Tri State Trail West Virginia Option #2, new bridge at Brilliant Option #3, National Road, U.S. 40/250 Wheeling Belmont County Tri State Trail West Virginia Suspension Bridge American Discovery Trail Crosses Ohio River at Parkersburg, WV to Belpre, Washington County West Virginia (U.S. 50 Bridge) OH on the U.S. 50 Bridge American Discovery Trail Hamilton County Kentucky Very small section of ADT in Kentucky (Roebling Suspension Bridge) American Discovery Trail Hamilton County Kentucky Very small section of ADT in Kentucky (Anderson Ferry) Enters Indiana near Elizabethtown on Stateline Hamilton County American Discovery Trail Indiana Road Preble County American Discovery Trail Indiana Enters Indiana east of Richmond on Stateline Road A not yet identified route that will connect the Williams County North Country National Scenic Trail Michigan NCNST to Michigan

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Ohio’s Trail System 81 POTENTIAL TRAIL CORRIDORS OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE FUTURE

Many types of trails, pathways, According to the Ohio Department to highways, agriculture, or been waterways and routemake up of Transportation, more than 6,800 sold to private interests. Rail aban- Ohio’s trail system. There are miles of railroads have been aban- donment begins when a railroad numerous opportunities to expand doned in Ohio and many more con- formally relinquishes its authority this trail system by preserving tinue to be abandoned each year. to operate a rail line and petitions corridors and developing rights- To date, only a fraction of these to allow it to discontinue rail ser- of-way and other lands that can corridors have been converted to vice along that rail line. support trails. Railroads, canal trail use. Most have been converted lands, utility corridors, high- way rights-of way, riparian corridors, and easements on private lands are examples of resources that trail planners and managers should consider when planning trail systems.

Railroad Rights-of-Way Abandoned railroad rights- of-way are particularly well suited for trail development and Ohio is recognized as one of the national leaders in the “rail-trail” movement. In fact, Ohio now has more than 50 developed rail-trails encom- passing more than 700 miles. Another 600 miles are planned throughout the state. Railroad corridors usually have man- ageable grades and subsurface conditions are very conducive to developing multi-use trails. Although not every railroad abandonment is suitable for trail use, many segments already link population centers and parks. These corridors can also provide alternate transportation opportunities and serve as the backbone for regional and statewide trails systems.

82 CHAPTER 5 There are numerous issues associated with railroad abandonment that public agencies must grapple with in an effort to maximize opportunities for future trail development. Railroad corridors typically involve a complex array of owner- ship patterns. The railroad company could own outright portions of some segments and have only restricted use, through easements, on others. Reversionary clauses, which cause ownership to revert to original or adjacent landown- ers in case of abandonment, have created many legal issues in Ohio and nationally. In addition to land owner- ship disputes, issues like funding the purchase of the land, coordinating planning among different political jurisdictions, and winning the support of adjacent landown- ers have been challenges in developing more rail-trails.

An alternative to losing railroad corridors through abandonment is to preserve the corridor through “rail- banking.” Railbanking is an agreement between the rail- design and safety challenges but do Ohio. While major segments of road company and a public agency represent a viable option for trail these historic resources no longer or trail group whereby the corridor, development. The Rails-to-Trails exist, many have already been bridges, culverts, etc. remain intact Conservancy, a national nonprofit converted to trail use and there are for future transportation purposes. organization with a state chapter numerous additional opportunities In the interim, the corridor can be in Ohio, is an excellent source of to utilize remaining canal resources developed into a trail if an agency information and technical assis- for trail and greenway develop- or trail group agrees to manage the tance on all facets of acquiring and ment. In addition to trail and trail and cover all associated costs developing rail-trails. greenway potential, canal lands can like taxes and liability. provide diverse environmental, his- Canal Lands toric, and cultural benefits to Ohio Trails can also be developed and its citizens adjacent to active rail lines. “Rails Canals played a significant role with trails” present some additional in the development and growth of Ohio’s Trail System 83 In northeast Ohio, the Ohio & owns many of the remaining seg- electric magnetic fields emanating Erie Canal was the impetus for the ments of Ohio’s historic canals from power lines. Trail advocates creation of a National Heritage that are in public ownership and and public agencies should work Corridor. The Ohio & Erie Canal have trail potential. Many other with utility providers to negotiate National Heritage Canalway sections have been transferred to trail easements and promote the stretches approximately 110 miles either public agencies or non-profit positive public benefits that trails from the Cleveland lakefront to organizations for recreation and/or will create. New Philadelphia in Tuscarawas historic preservation. Where there County. A towpath trail has been are opportunities to provide viable Street/Road Rights-of-Way developed on the old canal lands trails, to connect to existing trails, The state of Ohio has a tremendous and this trail serves as the back- or preserve other canal features, capital investment in its trans- bone of the canal way. Similarly, these corridors should be preserved portation infrastructure and road remnants of the Miami & Erie by ODNR in partnership with other networks. These linear networks Canal in western Ohio are key government agencies, trail groups, and associated lands can provide components of various local, and historic preservation interest opportunities to accommodate trail regional, statewide and national groups. users and link/connect to off-road trail systems like ODNR’s Miami- trails. As a result, transportation Erie Trail, the Buckeye Trail, and Utility Corridors agencies and planners should give the North Country National Scenic Public and private utility corridors heightened consideration to inte- Trail. Significant portions of the can provide opportunities for new grating trail related developments Miami & Erie Canal remain from off-road trails and also provide in roadway planning, construction, approximately the Miami-Shelby linkages to existing trails and or renovation. County line all the way north to greenways. By definition trails Toledo in Lucas County. A diverse are linear corridors so they can The shared use of roads and group of pubic agencies and pri- logically utilize the same corridor highway rights-of-way for trails vate interests is actively working with utilities such as electric/power presents many opportunities and to preserve, manage, and interpret lines, water/sewer lines, television challenges alike to planners. Trail remaining canal lands on both the and fiber optic cable, gas lines, etc. improvements within a road/high- Ohio & Erie and the Miami & Erie. Utility corridors could be espe- way corridor could be a separate These efforts are spearheaded by cially attractive in urban or heavily path, a bike lane (paved shoulder) the Ohio and Erie Canal Corridor developed areas where open space with edge striping and signage, a Coalition and the Miami and and other trail development options signed roadway, or streets/road Erie Canal Corridor Association, are limited. In many cases, over- ways with bicycle designations respectively. lapping trails and utilities is a way that are open to bicycle travel to establish both systems at less and shared with other vehicles. Reusing historic canals for trails expense than providing both func- Variables such as traffic volume, and preserving them for other tions separately. width of the right-of-way, the benefits has a number of obstacles number and type of users, design and challenges. Many segments Many utilities are located on land factors, cost, and maintenance must are fragmented, making intercon- not actually owned by the utility be taken into account when consid- nections difficult. Long, intact companies but use easements. As ering trail development options. sections are somewhat limited a result, permission of property and finding viable public agen- owners to use a corridor for any Low volume or lightly traveled cies or trail groups to develop use other than that for which an roads generally present the best and/or manage the remaining canal easement was originally designated options for potential trail segments. lands is sometimes problematic. would be required. In the case In fact, the Ohio Department of Numerous encroachments and of some utilities, there could be Transportation has nine designated political realities also threaten the concerns about liability and other cross-state bicycle routes totaling integrity of canal lands. ODNR perceived safety issues such as more than 2,100 miles that utilize 84 CHAPTER 5 existing road and highway rights- ized recreation vehicles. In urban Ohio law allows the public to use of-way. Furthermore, the Buckeye areas, systems of bicycle routes public thoroughfares by the mode Trail utilizes low volume county based on a shared road system can of their choice but they are prohib- and township roads for much of its provide vital connections and link- ited from bicycling and walking on nearly 1,300 miles in Ohio. Many ages to off road trails. The safety freeways. For some trail activities, parts of rural Ohio have unpaved of trail users is an obvious concern permission to use public rights- roads that could be suitable for when highway corridors are used of–way for recreational use could hiking, off-road bicycles, or motor- for recreation purposes. In general, be required.

Ohio’s Trail System 85 Motorized recreation trail users Riparian Corridors system of water trails and access have long advocated the use of Ohio is a water-rich state that is points that will provide small boat low volume and unimproved roads blessed with more than 60,000 paddling routes and other recre- as the foundation for a statewide miles of streams. As they wind ation and conservation benefits. motorized trail system. It has their way through virtually all rural ODNR, in partnership with other been estimated that Ohio has over and urban landscapes, riparian agencies and organizations, 1,600 miles of unimproved roads, lands and their waters can provide recently initiated a Discover Ohio mostly in southeastern Ohio, that a multitude of opportunities for Water Trails planning process that are open for any type of street legal various types of trail development. will result in a blueprint to improve vehicle. Representatives of the In fact, many Ohio communi- access to Ohio’s streams and the Ohio Multi-Use Trail Association ties are actively pursuing efforts identification of a system of state have identified a number of these to preserve their stream corridors water trails. rights of way that are currently and many of these efforts are used for motorized recreation. See complimented by recreational trail Easements Figure 5.21. The vision would development. These linear parks Easements are another long-term include having small towns func- or corridors of protected open option available to land manag- tioning as a trailheads or staging space are sometimes referred to ers for trail development where areas that could help facilitate an as greenways. It should be noted outright land ownership is not interconnected system of trails. however, that trails and greenways feasible. An easement is a legally “Adopt a road” programs could are not synonymous and not all binding agreement in which a be developed to allow users to greenways are in riparian cor- landowner allows certain land uses maintain sections of these roads ridors. Greenways are typically to another party who holds the to reduce costs to political subdi- defined as corridors of open space easement and enforces its terms visions. Unfortunately, many of that are managed for conserva- and conditions. Easements are part these roads are being lost as county tion or recreation while trails are of a property’s deed and survive commissioners and township paths that provide recreation and ownership transfers. trustees petition to close the roads. transportation alternatives. Often, A primary reason is the liability for however, greenways do have a trail In a state like Ohio, where approxi- maintaining/improving the roads. or recreation component. mately 95 percent of the land is in Motorized trail interests should private ownership, easements can work with appropriate government Another possibility for recreational be a viable option to locate and/or officials to establish riding oppor- trail development in riparian cor- connect to trails. An easement tunities on these road systems and ridors involves the utilization of could allow a landowner to provide preserve the corridors for future flood control levees. Flood control a trail while still retaining owner- generations. levees were constructed in many ship. If the land on which there is Ohio communities years ago to an easement is sold, the easement provide protection from advanc- passes to the new landowner, thus ing flood waters. Because of their ensuring ongoing access to a trail. linear nature and public ownership, The agency or organization that these levees can be viable options holds the easement is responsible for establishing trail systems or for monitoring and enforcing its connecting trails. provisions and should maintain a Waterways are also being increas- good working relationship with the ingly recognized as a resource for property owner to prevent viola- providing water-based trails. With tions. The easement can be dis- more than 1,700 miles of navigable solved only by the party who has streams in Ohio, there are numer- been granted access through the ous opportunities to develop a easement.

86 CHAPTER 5 Ohio’s Trail System 87 88 CHAPTER 5 Literature Referenced

American Hiking Society, Rails to Trails Conservancy, Sporting Ohio Department of Development, Division of Travel and Goods Manufacturers Association, Trails and Trailways, A Vision Tourism, Ohio Tourism Regions. for the 21st Century, 1994. Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Real Estate American Trails, Trail Tracks, Carlson, James, “Using and Land Management, Outdoor Recreation in Ohio, A Plan Transportation and Utility Corridors for Trails”, Volume #33, for the Future, 2003 Ohio Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Number 1, New Years 2004. Recreation Plan, 2003.

American Trails, Trail Tracks, Holisko, Gary, “Update on Trails Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Watercraft, Along Power Lines”, Volume 32, Number 32, Number 1, Spring Boating Ohio’s Waterways, 2004. 2003. Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio Trails, 1975. Colorado State Parks, State Recreational Trails Master Plan, August 1992. Ohio Department of Transportation, Access Ohio 2004-2030 Draft, February 2004. Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Greenways Coordinating Council, Connecting Florida’s Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Trail and Bicycling Communities with Greenways and Trails, April 1999. Information, August 2001.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Trail Ohio Greenways, Ohio Parks and Recreation Association, Open Corridors and Greenways Plan, June 1993. Space Projects, Endless Benefits, Facts and Thoughts in Support of Open Space Projects In Ohio, Marsh, Elaine, 2003. Illinois Department of Conservation, Illinois State Trails Plan, Final Review Draft, May 1995. Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments, OKI Regional Bicycle Plan, 2001. Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Trails Advisory Board, Indiana Trails 2000. Outdoor Recreation in American Life: A National Assessment of Demand and Supply Trends, H. Ken Cordell, et. al., Sagamone Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation, Washington State Publishing, 1999. Trails Plan, Policy and Action Document, June 1991. Pennsylvania Greenways Partnership Commission, Pennsylvania Iowa Department of Transportation, Iowa Statewide Recreational Greenways, An Action Plan for Creating Connections, June 2001. Trails Plan, February 1990. Rails to Trails Conservancy, The Discover Ohio Trails System, Iowa Department of Transportation, Trail Plan, 2000. Ohio Rail-Trail Action Plan, 1995.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Rails-to- Trends 2000: Shaping the Future, Abstracts for the 5th Outdoor Trails, December 1989. Recreation & Tourism Trends Symposium, September 17-20, 2000.

National Association of State Trail Administrators, State Trail U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Programs, A Survey of State Trail Administrators, Moore, Roger, Administration, Improving Conditions for Bicycling and Walking, 1994. A Best Practices Report, January, 1998.

National Conference of State Legislatures, Promoting Walking and U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Bicycling, The Legislative Role, Robbins, Leslie Teach, Morandi, Administration, Publication No. FHWA-PD-92-023, National Larry, December 2002. Bicycle and Walking Study, Transportation Choices for a Changing America. National Park and Recreation Association, Parks and Recreation Magazine, “Trails and Recreational Greenways: Corridors of U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Benefits”, Moore, Roger, Ron, D. Thomas, January 1998. Administration, Publication No. FHWA-PD-94-031, Conflicts on Multiple Use Trails: Synthesis of the Literature and State of the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (NRSE Practice, Moore, Roger, August 1994. 2000), USDA Forest Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Recreation Feasibility Study for the Wayne National Forest, Executive Summary, September 2003. Nebraska Energy Office and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, A Network of Discovery, A West Virginia Trail Plan Committee, Pathways to the Future, The Comprehensive Trails Plan for the State of Nebraska, July 1994. West Virginia Statewide Trail Plan, 2002-2010.

New Hampshire Office of State Planning, Comprehensive Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin State Statewide Trails Study, June 1997. Trail Network Plan, 2001.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, New Jersey Trails Plan, January 1996.

Literature Referenced 89 Appendix A A Trail Resources and Library

Trail Resources and Library

American Trails is a national, non-profit organization that works on behalf of all trail interests and is dedicated to creating and protecting a nationwide network of intercon- nected trails. American Trails has assembled an impressive library on a wide variety of trail topics and resources on its website, www.americantrails.org/resources. The website has links for hundreds of articles on the following topics:

Accessible trails and ADA Motorized trails & recreation

Adjacent Landowners National Recreation Trails

Advocacy National Trails Training Partnership

Benefits of trails Planning trails

Consultants & services Products for trails

Economics of trails Rails to trails

Federal agencies SAFETEA and Enhancements

Federal funding Studies of trail use

Federal legislation Trail construction

Funding Trail design

Good trails Trail maintenance

Greenways & urban trails Trail management

Health & Trails Training for trail work

International trails Volunteer development

Land acquisition & corridor preservation Wildlife & trails

Millennium trails

90 Appendix A Appendix B Trail Organizations

National Organizations East Coast 4 Wheel Drive Association National Off-Road Bicycle Association 101 S. Miami Avenue C/o USA Cycling All-Terrain Vehicle Association Cleves, OH 45002 One Olympic Plaza P.O. Box 800 1-800-327-8493 Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Pickerington, OH 43147 www.ec4wda.org 719-578-5481 614-575-5585 www.usacycling.org www.atvaonline.com International Inline Skating Association 7210 Trailmark Drive North Country Trail Association American Canoe Association Wilmington, NC 28405 229 E. Main Street 7432 Alban Station Blvd., Suite B-232 910-762-7004 Lowell, MI 49331 Springfield, VA 22150 www.iisa.org 616-897-5987 703-451-0141 www.northcountrytrail.org www.acanet.org International Mountain Biking Assoc. P.O. Box 7578 Rails to Trails Conservancy American Hiking Society Boulder, CO 80306 1100 17th Street, N.W. 1422 Fenwick Lane 303-545-9011 Washington, D.C. 20036 Silver Spring, MD 20910 888-442-4622 202-331-9696 301-545-6704 www.imba.com www.railtrails.org www.americanhiking.org International Snowmobile Manufacturers United Four Wheel Drive Association American Motorcyclist Association Association 7135 S. PR Royal Springs Drive 13515 Yarmouth Drive 1540 Haslett Road, Suite 170 Shelbyville, IN 46176 Pickerington, OH 43147 Haslett, MI 48840 800-448-3932 614-856-1900 517-339-7788 www.ufwda.org www.ama-cycle.org www.snowmobile.org American Rivers League of American Bicyclists State Organizations 1025 Vermont Avenue, NW, Suite 720 1612 K Street, NW, Suite 800 Washington, D.C. 20005 Washington, D.C. 20006-2850 American Discovery Trail 202-347-5770 208-822-1333 Ohio Coordinator www.americanrivers.org www.bikeleague.org 7 Peabody Drive Oxford, OH 45056 American Trails Motorcycle Industry Council, Inc. 513-523-4851 P.O. Box 491797 2 Jenner Street, Suite 150 www.discoverytrail.org Redding, CA 96049-1797 Irvine, CA 92618 530-547-2060 949-727-4211 Buckeye Trail Association, Inc. www.americantrails.org www.mic.org P.O. Box 254 Worthington, OH 43085 American Volksport Association National Ctr for Bicycling and Walking 800-881-3062 1001 Pat Booker Road, Suite 101 1506 21st Street, N.W., Suite 200 www.buckeyetrail.org Universal City, TX 72148 Washington, D.C. 20036 210-659-2112 202-463-6622 Miami-Erie Canal Corridor Association www.ava.org www.bikefed.org P.O. Box 722 St. Marys, OH 45885 Blue Ribbon Coalition National Off-Highway Vehicle 419-733-6451 4555 Burley Drive, Suite A Conservation Council, Inc. www.meccainc.org Pocatello, ID 83202-1921 4718 South Taylor Drive 800-258-3742 Sheboygan, WI 53081 Ohio Canal Corridor www.sharetrails.org 800-348-6487 P.O. Box 609420 Cleveland, OH 44109 Cross Country Ski Areas Association www.nohvcc.org 216-520-1825 259 Bolton Road www.ohiocanal.org Winchester, NH 03470 877-799-2754 www.xcski.org

Appendix B 91 Ohio & Erie Canal Corridor Coalition Public Agencies Ohio Department of Natural Resources 520 South Main Street, Suite 2452 Federal Government Division of Parks and Recreation Akron, OH 44311 (Ohio State Parks) 330-434-5657 Federal Highway Administration 2045 Morse Road, C-3 www.ohioeriecanal.org Trails and Enhancements Program Columbus, OH 43229-6693 614-265-6561 Ohio to Erie Trail Fund, Inc. HEPN-50, Room 3240 www.ohiodnr.com/parks P.O. Box 21246 400 Seventh Street, SW Columbus, OH 43221 Washington, D.C. 20590 Ohio Department of Natural Resources www.ohiotoerietrail.org 202-366-5013 Division of Real Estate and Land www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/ Management Ohio Greenways rectrails 2045 Morse Road, C-4 2179 Everett Road Columbus, OH 43229-6693 Peninsula, OH 44264 National Park Service 614-265-6395 330-657-2055 Cuyahoga Valley National Park www.ohiodnr.com/realm www.ohiogreenways.org 15610 Vaughn Road Brecksville, OH 44141 Ohio Department of Natural Resources Ohio Horseman’s Council 216-524-1497 Division of Watercraft 9830 Roley Road www.nps.gov/cuva 2045 Morse Road, A-1 Logan, OH 43138 Columbus, OH 43229-6693 740-385-5306 National Park Service www.ohiodnr.com/watercraft/water- www.ohiohorsemanscouncil.com Rivers and Trails Conservation Assistance Program trails/default.htm. Ohio Mountain Bike Association 2179 Everett Road Ohio Department of Development www.joincombo.org Peninsula, OH 44264 Travel and Tourism Ohio Multi-Use Trails Association 330-657-2950 77 South High Street, 29th Floor 34018 Sutton Road www.nps.gov/rtca Columbus, OH 43215-6108 Logan, OH 43130 National Park Service www.odod.state.oh.us 740-380-3050 North Country National Scenic Trail www.ohiotourism.com www.ohiotrails.org 700 Rayovac Drive, Suite 100 Ohio Department of Health Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Madison, OH 53711 246 North High Street 1059 West Main Street 608-441-5610 P.O. Box 118 Westerville, OH 43081 www.nps.gov/noco Columbus, OH 43215 614-895-2222 U.S. Forest Service www.odh.state.oh.us www.opraonline.org Wayne National Forest Ohio Department of Transportation Ohio Trails Partnership 13700 U.S. Highway 33 Division of Local Programs 255 South Stony Run Road Nelsonville, OH 45764 Office of Local Projects Beverly, OH 45715 740-753-0101 Bicycle/Pedestrian Program 740-984-4703 www.fs.fed.us/r9/wayne 1980 West Broad Street Columbus, OH 43223 Ohio State Snowmobile Association State Government 614-752-4683 P.O. Box 49 www.dot.state.oh.us/bike Columbiana, OH 44408 Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry Rails to Trails Conservancy, Ohio 2045 Morse Road, H-1 Local Government Field Office Columbus, OH 43229-6693 30 Liberty Street 614-265-6694 For a listing of local park and Canal Winchester OH 43110 www.ohiodnr.com/forestry recreation agencies contact: 614-837-6782 Ohio Parks and Recreation Assoc. www.railtrails.org Ohio Department of Natural Resources 1069 West Main Street Division of Natural Areas and Westerville, OH 43081 Preserves 614-895-2222 2045 Morse Road, F-1 www.opraonline.org Columbus, OH 43229-6693 614-265-6453 www.ohiodnr.com/dnap

92 Appendix B