Ohio’s “must ride” trail expanded with new connectors and skills course
PERRYSVILLE, Ohio – Ready to venture off the beaten path and embark on a new journey on two wheels? There are thrills in every direction on the new and improved portions of the mountain biking trail at Mohican State Park. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) dedicated the completion of the expanded trail today.
“This new trail puts adventure within reach for those looking to up their mountain biking game,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “The excitement is endless, and you can soak in the beautiful views this region has to offer while enjoying the adrenaline rush of the ride.”
Constructed by ODNR’s Division of Parks and Watercraft, the 4.39-mile trail connects Mohican State Park Lodge to County Road 3006 on the west side of Pleasant Hill Dam. Additionally, a 1.53-mile trail, built by volunteers, connects County Road 3006 to the east side of Pleasant Hill Dam and is an addition to the existing 24.3-mile Mohican mountain bike loop trail.
ODNR has also constructed a .95-mile course for visitors to learn and master their skills. The course consists of jumps, berms, and natural features to improve biker abilities. All new trails cover ODNR Parks and Watercraft, ODNR Forestry, and Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District property.
“The Mohican area has always been an adventure destination, and now we’re offering adventure right outside the lodge’s front entrance,” said Mohican State Park Lodge Manager Laura Weirick. “Guests who bring their own bikes need only cross the parking lot to get started on their journey.”
Mohican State Park’s mountain bike trail was voted the #1 mountain bike trail in Ohio by Mountain Bike Action Magazine, and a “must ride” according to National Geographic Explorer Magazine. The park is also home to the Mohican MTB100, a stop on the National Ultra Endurance Series that has featured many of today’s top USA Olympians and national champions.
The trails were funded by the ODNR, with assistance provided by the Mohican-Malabar Mountain Bike Club and Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District. Their openings were delayed because of the tornado that caused damage at Mohican State Park in June. ODNR closed all hiking, biking, and bridle trails within Mohican State Park and Mohican-Memorial State Forest for several weeks after the storm.
Mohican State Park is also the perfect place for visitors to fish, hunt, picnic, and more. In addition to mountain bike trails, the park offers hiking and bridle trails.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
