The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a shared-use trail. You’ll be joined by walkers, bicyclists, joggers and, in some areas, travelers on horseback.

Follow these simple guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit:

• Bicyclists should wear a helmet. This includes children in bicycle trailers.

• Ride/walk single file. Bicyclists traveling in a group must ride in a single-file line.

• Stay to the right. Always ride or walk on the right side of the trail.

• Give an audible signal when passing on the left. Use a bike bell, your voice, or other form of notification. Many cyclists will call out the number of riders passing, as well.

• Cyclists yield to pedestrians. All trail users must yield to horses. The berm for horses is off to the side of the Towpath Trail in some places, while horses and pedestrians/cyclists share the trail in other areas. Simple towpath courtesy prevails: pass on the left after giving an audible signal. Remember to slow down before passing and be aware that horses can spook easily if startled.

• Keep one ear clear. If wearing headphones, please leave one ear clear so you can remain alert to other trail users.

• Slow down! Traveling at a slower pace allows you to stay alert and ensures the safety of yourself and others.

• Do not block the trail. When you need to stop, step off the trail. Never block the trail.

• Protect your pet. Use an 8-foot leash (or 6-foot in the national park) when on the trail. Remember, even though you may trust your pet off of a leash, other trail users may feel uncomfortable.

• Leave no trace! Always pick up after yourself by either disposing of trash in proper bins or taking your trash with you when you leave. This includes cleaning up after your pet!

• If riding an electric bicycle, stay up to date on the latest guidelines from park partners. Class 1 & 2 e-bikes are permitted on the Towpath Trail. You can find information on these evolving guidelines by contacting the local park districts.

From leaves to berries — take only photo souvenirs! You’ll pass through five nature preserves along the Towpath Trail and in other parts of your visit to the Ohio & Erie Canalway, so please remember to take only photo souvenirs of your journey. Protecting the region’s plants and wildlife is just as important as protecting yourself.

Removing any item from the preserve is a misdemeanor in Ohio and can result in a ticket. This extends to items you may not naturally think of like plants, tree limbs, rocks and leaves. Picking flowers and berries or feeding wildlife — including birds — is also prohibited.

You truly are walking in an area being “preserved” and you become part of the team keeping things in place. That’s why we’ll also ask you to stay on the trails too. They’ve been carefully placed to have minimal impact on the ecosystems flourishing around you.

Here are links to the regulations and rules for each preserve, north to south:

Cleveland Metroparks

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Summit Metro Parks

Stark Parks

Tuscarawas County Park Department