Traveling a path once used by mules to pull canal boats, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail will take you through five preserves in the National Heritage Area. While you'll travel between 4 counties and 5 parks systems, the hand-off between parks is virtually seamless, although terrain and surfaces change a bit. Be prepared for asphalt, crushed limestone and other trail surfaces.

• Trailheads: 55 trailheads offer parking, Towpath Trail access and great journey gateways. Trailheads run north from Canal Basin Park in Cleveland to Canal Lands Park in Zoar.

• Choose a distance: You can download a map here, view a list of Trailheads here and use the interactive map to plan a trip here.

• One-Way trip: Frequent riders suggest heading south to north.

• Round trip: Experienced riders suggest Cleveland—Tusc.—Cleveland. You’ll get the more rigorous journey done first, since elevation increases between Cleveland and Akron.

• Towpath campsites: There are limited campsites available for single-night, pass through travelers in some areas.

• Overnight parking: Available at select CVNP Trailheads or with permits in specific areas. Check Trailheads for more info.

• Plan Ahead: Check our News & Alerts page for any temporary closures or detours.

Before you hop on your bike, here are a few helpful tips from area cyclists.

• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen and biking gloves too!

• Consider padded shorts for southern limestone surface portions of the trail.

• Hybrid or mountain bike tires are best — the wider tires are better for the crushed limestone found along much of the southern sections.

• Bike bell is a key safety item to let people know you’re coming. Pass on the left and ride single file.

• Bright clothing and flashing taillights are very helpful for early morning and dusk riding as the Towpath Trail is not lit in all areas.

• E-bikes are limited to 15 miles per hour on most portions of the Towpath Trail.

• The Towpath Trail is a very popular walking and hiking path, especially in the National Park. Watch for pedestrians and signal when passing.

• Not all trailheads have restrooms or drinking water. Plan ahead and know where you can find amenities.

• Use trail etiquette, like biking single file and cleaning up after yourself.