Knox County Trails to Explore
Heart of Ohio Trail
Kokosing Gap Trail
Mochian Valley Trail
Set in the geographical Heart of Ohio, this scenic rail trail offers a peaceful trek through rural landscapes and features the highest elevation point on the Ohio to Erie Trail. Visitors can enjoy the soothing sounds of Dry Creek as it winds beneath 19 historic bridges on its journey to the Kokosing State Scenic River. Springtime hikers and riders are treated to vibrant displays of wildflowers like Squirrel Corn and Dutchman’s Breeches, while birdwatchers can spot elegant Northern Mockingbirds and Red-headed Woodpeckers among the trees. This picturesque route seamlessly blends natural beauty with tranquil exploration.
A welcoming 14-mile paved trail, perfect for a gentle afternoon ride or a quick morning warm-up. On October 5, 2016, the Kokosing Gap Trail celebrated its 25th anniversary, having opened its first four miles of paved trail on that date in 1991. Today, it’s recognized by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as one of the best rail-trails in the United States. A historic mill and railroad tunnel greet riders in the hamlet of Howard.. You will locate many picturesque views of the Kokosing River which is one of Ohio's State Scenic River systems. You will travel through the towns of Mount Vernon, Gambier, Howard and Danville.
The Mohican Valley Trail is a scenic 5-mile path that follows the former Penn Central Railroad right-of-way along the eastern edge of Knox County, between Danville and Brinkhaven. A highlight of the trail is the stunning Bridge of Dreams in Brinkhaven—a 370-foot covered bridge spanning the Mohican River valley. It’s the second-longest covered bridge in Ohio and the third-longest in the country. Along the way, visitors can sense the area’s rich railroad history. The trail welcomes cyclists, horseback riders, and horse-and-buggy users.
Centerburg: Midway on the Ohio to Erie Trail
Welcome to Centerburg, the heart of your next adventure. We invite all cyclists and walkers to explore our beautiful local trails and enjoy the scenic views around town. Come discover the peaceful paths that make our community so special.
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Welcome to Centerburg, the Midway point of the Ohio to Erie Trail. In 1874, Centerburg began to flourish as the construction of the “Cleveland, Mt. Vernon and Delaware Railroad Company was finally developed, and the first passenger train was operational on September 1, 1874. Town lots that were once valued at $20 began to sell for $200 and the population grew from 60 to 1,101 people.
In 1880 the former Cleveland, Mt Vernon, Delaware railroad went bankrupt and the railroad company was sold to the Cleveland, Akron, Columbus (C.A.&C.) railway which eventually became the Pennsylvania Railroad in late 1899.
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As you cycle the former rail trail, you will notice historical features that still exist of that era of transportation. You can view the historic site of the former C.A. & C Depot at the trailhead of the Heart of Ohio and Kokosing Gap Trails in Mount Vernon. Stop and visit our Bike Friendly businesses listed on our website link as you arrive through our villages and communities.