Ready for adventure? Explore the Ohio & Erie Canalway to experience the nature, history and culture of Northeast Ohio.

The Ohio & Erie Canalway is a National Heritage Area designated by Congress in 1996 to preserve and celebrate the rails, trails, landscapes, towns and sites that grew up along the first 110 miles of the early 19th century canal that helped Ohio and our nation grow.

The beauty, culture and history of the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area can be found while traveling along the iconic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, riding aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, driving along our nationally designated America’s Byway, or exploring any of the towns and cities connected physically and historically by these transportation systems.

The Towpath Trail

More than 2.5 million Americans find their way each year to the iconic nearly 101-mile Towpath Trail running through the heart of the Canalway.

America's Byway

The America’s Byway is not a single road, but a carefully mapped 110-mile route along two lane roads through four counties and 58 communities in the National Heritage Area.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park & Metro Parks

The Canalway runs directly through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, as well as a robust system of county park districts that feature an abundance of ways to get outside and enjoy nature.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The CVSR is one of the oldest, longest and most scenic tourist excursion railways in the country, providing year-round programming along its route, including a bike aboard program.

Passport Program

We work with our iconic partner sites to act as official Ohio & Erie Canalway NPS Passport Stops, with each site connected to the Canalway story. Stop by these locations to collect your passport stamp and learn about the Canalway’s history.