Nestled in the rolling farmlands of Knox County, the Heart of Ohio Trail (affectionately known as HOOT) is more than just a bike path—it's a ribbon of asphalt weaving through the geographic soul of the Buckeye State. Stretching 16.9 miles from the charming village of Centerburg to the historic streets of Mount Vernon, this paved gem invites cyclists, runners, walkers, and nature lovers to pedal, stroll, or jog through woodlands, wetlands, and open fields. If you're craving a peaceful escape that blends exercise with exploration, Centerburg's slice of the trail is your perfect starting point. Let's dive into why this trail deserves a spot on your Ohio adventure list.
A Trail Born from Rails: The Backstory
The Heart of Ohio Trail traces its roots to the old Cleveland, Akron & Columbus Railroad, repurposed in the early 2000s as part of the ambitious Ohio-to-Erie Trail—a 293-mile cross-state network connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. Officially opening in 2009 as an unpaved path, HOOT got its smooth asphalt upgrade by 2013, making it accessible for all skill levels. Today, it's maintained by the dedicated Heart of Ohio Trail Board, with recent enhancements like a 182-foot overpass bridge on Lytle Road in Centerburg ensuring safe crossings over busy routes.
Centerburg, proudly declaring itself the "Heart of Ohio" (it's smack in the state's geographic center), anchors the trail's southern end. The village's Memorial Park serves as a prime launchpad, complete with ample parking and picnic spots. From here, the trail gently climbs northeast, reaching its highest point at 1,285 feet where it crosses US 36—offering panoramic views of golden cornfields and wildflower meadows that bloom vibrantly from spring through fall.
What Makes the Trail Tick? Highlights and Stats
Length and Accessibility - At 15.7 to 16.9 miles point-to-point (depending on your source), it's an easy-rated route perfect for a half-day outing. Expect a gentle 4-5 hour bike ride end-to-end, with shaded sections providing relief on hotter days. The surface is 100% paved asphalt (save for a quick portage over active rail tracks near Mount Vernon), and it's wheelchair-friendly in spots like the Pittsburgh Avenue parking lot.
Scenic Splendors**: Paralleling Dry Creek in parts, the trail features 19 bridges—many wooden and picturesque—arching over babbling streams. You'll spot abundant wildlife: deer grazing in meadows, birds flitting through wetlands, and even the occasional fox darting across your path. Sun-dappled woods give way to open farmlands, with grain silos and historic barns as photogenic backdrops. Pro tip: Time your visit for wildflower season (May-June) when the path bursts into color.
Trailheads and Connectivity - Kick off in Centerburg at Memorial Park (5875 Township Hwy 51) or Huffman Road (2750 Huffman Road). Head north to Mount Vernon’s C.A. & C. Depot (501 S Main St), a restored 1907 train station that's now a trail hub. From Centerburg, you can extend your ride southwest toward Sunbury (20 miles round-trip) or even link up with the Kokosing Gap Trail for a longer loop. Ambitious riders can push to Westerville (41 miles out-and-back) via the Ohio-to-Erie route, passing Hoover Reservoir and quaint villages like Galena.
Family-Friendly Perks - With its flat profile and rest areas every few miles (including picnic tables and playgrounds at Mt. Liberty), HOOT is ideal for beginners or families. Dogs are welcome on leashes, and e-bikes are a hit for conquering any subtle inclines.
Pedal Through Centerburg: Village Vibes and Must-See Stops.
Centerburg isn't just a trail endpoint—it's a delightful detour. As you roll into town past towering grain elevators, hop off for a selfie at the iconic "Center of Ohio Boulder" in Memorial Park. This massive glacial rock, engraved with a time capsule beneath, marks the state's midpoint (though geography nerds debate the exact spot—Centerburg wins for spirit and the biggest boulder!).
The Heart of Ohio Trail isn't just a bike path; it's a portal to Ohio's unhurried heart, where every mile uncovers a story of resilience, nature, and small-town pride. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist chasing the full Ohio-to-Erie epic or a casual rider seeking a shaded spin, Centerburg's trail delivers. Grab your wheels, lace up, and let HOOT lead you home. What's your favorite trail memory? Drop it in the comments below!
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The Sam Miller Team of REMAX Stars Realty 740-397-7800 SamMillerSells.com
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