Monday, July 30, 2007

Welcome to the brand new Back Roads and Beaches Multi-sport tour of Lorain County

Welcome to Lorain County's newest eco-tourism venture, Back Roads and Beaches Bike and Multi-sport Tour of Lorain County. The program is the work of Lorain County Heritage and the Lorain County Visitors Bureau. Recognizing that Lorain County | North Central Ohio has spectacular, diverse scenery and is already getting notice for great cycling, we've tied together culture and arts; recreation like kayaking, hiking and swimming; Underground Railroad History and healthy dining choices, all in an easy-to-follow route. Thanks to everyone who helped in the effort. One of the best things about the tour.... we have signs!!! Thanks to Lorain County engineer Ken Carney. Now, instead of reaching for your map or cue sheet at each turn, our shiny, new green bike route signs are there to guide you.

Along the route, you'll have the opportunity to visit a number of unique attractions that can be customized. Triathletes and adventure enthusiasts can do a challenging, rolling training course where a bike ride can be combined with swimming, kayaking on Findley Lake or Lake Erie, running, rollerblading, and hiking. Touring cyclists might want to visit one or more of our wineries located along the route. Or visit the Allen Memorial Art Museum, one of the finest university collections in the US. While in Oberlin, cyclists can get a glimpse into the history of the Underground Railroad. A good place to start experiencing Oberlin history is at the Oberlin Heritage Center. The city of Oberlin is a great stop to immerse yourself in arts, culture, history and great, healthy restaurants that feature locally produced foods.

You'll find the map and website details the important information cyclists look for when traveling. Where to stay, where to eat, laundry facilities, where to get an internet connection, bike repair etc. You can always call the Lorain County Visitors Bureau for travel information as well 1-800-334-1673.

Please feel free to post your comments here about the route, your visit, and local cycling. We will continuously update you on what's going on in Lorain County, cycling, the route and any other relevant information that might facilitate your visit here.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

just rode the Back Roads and Beaches bike route. This is a nice course with very little traffic which is to say the least refreshing having spent a lot of time in the Cleveland Metro parks. The only downside to this is there is always the possibility of having to out run Fido since some of the farms on the way have dogs but I didn't have any trouble. I was surprised that the so called "north" loop to Vermillion has some pretty big climbs. Again no problems but riders should be ready to sweat a bit:we aren't on the bike path any more, Toto! So some may have to walk once or twice but the scenery is well worth the effort. The roads are in good shape except a bit of loose gravel after the last bout of tar & feathers(chip & seal). There a some surprises on the south side of things as well-Findley State Park has some real cool riding within the park and this is before you even start the marked route. The best part is that if you go with a friend you can often ride next to each other and actually talk. Try that in the Metro Park!" Great job!

mkernohan said...

This is an awesome tour! Haven't done the whole circut yet, but the route from Findley to the lake is fantastic. Can't wait to see the whole thing!