Who said we need warm weather for adventure?

Some might say that it's a bummer when it gets this cold and the snow piles up here in North Central Ohio, but we know better! If anything the new obstacles only help us reach our target heart rate faster. It's also a great opportunity for some winter specific adventures to be had beyond just adding a lower temperature to the riding and hiking you can do year round on and near the BRaB.

Cycling the Back Roads and Beachse route

A great way to get those legs pumping is by snow-shoeing! If you've never tried it, the Lorain County Metro Parks are a great resource, and even if you're an old pro you can rent a set and head out of your own!

Keep in mind you can find plenty of great cross country skiing in this part of Ohio too. Parks like the Black River Reservation and the North Coast Inland Trail allow you to ski right here in Lorain County. Grab a pair of skis and head out at your own pace for a great afternoon!

And of course you can never go wrong with strapping on a pair of ice skates to get your blood pumping. North Park Ice Arena is waiting for you!

Vermilion Valley Vineyards

After your beat from your workout and need to warm up, head inside one of the great wineries just off the BRaB route, then crash here for the night at a hotel or B&B and try the next thing on your winter to do list in the morning!

New dining options along the BRaB route

As BRaB fans already know there are plenty of great dining options along the route. Here's a new one to add to the list: Treehugger's Cafe in downtown Oberlin. All the food is made fresh to order. Almost every item on the menu is organic. The menu features crepes, salads, wraps, soups and delicious desserts! Yum!

You'll find Treehugger's in the East College St. Building where Sprouts used to be. We're sad to see Sprouts go, but happy that such a great option has stepped in to fill the space!

Patchwork Trails along the Back Roads and Beaches Route

As if the beautiful scenery, low-traffic roads, wineries, restaurants and galleries aren't enough to punctuate a great ride, now you'll start finding more great art along the route! Thanks to the Community Foundation of Lorain County, throughout the end of 2013— and into 2014 — quilt barn squares will start appearing throughout the route. Here is the first one. See if you can find it... hint: Pitts Rd.

Paddle Boarding, anyone?

Yes, I do realize there is only one full day left of summer. But there are many beautiful days still ahead of us in north central Ohio. And as I stood on the beach at Lakeview Park in Lorain this week and watched a paddleboarder in front of the picturesque view of the Lorain lighthouse I knew there was still plenty of time to try something new. Ironically the Lake Erie Paddler himself was there as I went to leave that evening with boards in tow. Disappointingly, I did not jump on a board right then and there and give it a go, but it did prompt me to pull this from our summer archives. Please read on as our intern, Melody, shares her first experience on a paddleboard...


I was recently given the chance to try the latest and, in my opinion, greatest water sport to hit Lake Erie--stand up paddling (SUP)! I was absolutely amazed at how much fun I had and the endless potential for killer work out while just paddling around the cove. Keeping my balance engaged all of my muscles and the morning after, my arm muscles definitely reminded me that I had done something new.

After I was back on land, I got to chatting with Jim Lawhead, founder of Lake Erie Paddler, about the physical benefits of this sport. He told me about a Hawaiian man he met when he was first discovering SUP who lost 30 pounds just paddling a few miles every day.

If you're more of a thrill seeker, maybe stand up paddling will be a stepping stone before mastering paddle board surfing. Once you get the hang of it, there are huge benefits over regular surfing--the most obvious being that you can spot the waves faster when you're standing up and get a better chance to catch the wave.

Another really cool aspect of these boards is the new fitness trend SUP yoga. Not only does SUP yoga provide all the benefits of traditional yoga, it also has the added components of balancing on your board and being in the tranquil state of mind that only being surrounded by water can induce. The class begins by paddling out onto the water, then you move into your poses while the current brings you in, and then paddle back out, this time focusing on your paddle technique to get the most physical benefit.

I would highly recommend a day on these boards to anyone, young and old. You can craft the experience to whatever suits you best, whether it's an adventurous excursion on the black river or a blissful morning doing yoga on the water.

~Melody

I hope you were able to get out and try something new this summer. If not, there's still time! Go to www.backroadsandbeaches.com where more inspiration and adventure await.

For paddleboard rentals try Lake Erie Paddler and West River Kayak & Canoe

BYOE for BRAB Music Lovers!

Now I know what you're thinking--BYOE (Bring Your Own Everything)...on the Back Roads and Beaches Route? While we don't doubt your ability to lug a picnic, wine, lawn chairs, and more on your bike or in your backpack, "everything" you need for a day on BRAB followed by an evening at Riverdog Retreat's inaugural Music at Riverdog concert is right at your fingertips!

On September 8, Riverdog's gorgeous 20 acres provide the perfect scenery for "American roots" music, like the Kidney Brothers and Bill Watson, performers for Sunday's concert. While a suggested donation is encouraged to support the musicians, so is Riverdog's BYOE philosophy--no food, drinks, or place settings will be provided--so plan to bring your own. Lucky for you, the venue has kindly offered to let BRAB riders park on site for the day. Leave your concert supplies in your vehicle and spend the day on BRAB before returning for the evening's show. Guests are welcome beginning at 5pm with live music at 7pm.

Come early to wander Riverdog Reteat's 1.5 miles of walking trails

Riverdog's beautiful, historic barn will serve as the concert hall during warm weather months and house tables and chairs for those wanting to picnic indoors. Pack a blanket for outdoor seating or bring your favorite lawn chair. Music at Riverdog will continue throughout the year with Adrian Legg performing on Sunday, October 6. Winter shows will take place in Riverdog Retreat's gallery.

Plan your BRAB route to include a quick detour five miles east to bike-friendly downtown Oberlin to pick up your dinner at Aladdin's, The Feve, or one of the many other cafés in the area. Or, call Dostall Fams in advance to inquire about picking up hamburger patties on your way to the show. Riverdog's grill will be fired up at 5pm for guests to use.

There's no doubt you'll enjoy a relaxing evening of music and good company at Riverdog Retreat after a day on the BRAB!


If you're in the mood for a two-day excursion, rent some kayaks and hit the lakes and rivers of BRAB Saturday to see and do more in Lorain County! For lodging information, click here.

Be Carefree On the BRAB

Summer is the height of the cycling season here in north central Ohio. The weather is great and so are the trails. Inspired by a favorite website...here are some ways to make your normal ride fun and carefree!

1. Sing, dance a bit, have fun loudly as you pass pedestrians, people in their yards, people shopping. You may just brighten their day with your voice or your silly antics.

2. Re-master that childhood wheelie. The Thorn Trail at Findley State Park is an excellent place to practice!






3. Fill a cooler with cured meats, beer or local wine, and other snacks. Stash it in the woods somewhere along the route of the the next ride. When the group reaches that spot, feign a mechanical problem, then unveil your surprise.

4. Plan out a local ride that’s half made-up of roads you’ve never been on. Lorain County is huge, explore every nook and cranny!


5. Get one new person to go on a ride every week this summer. This is a fun way to meet new people.

6. Ride up your favorite descent—and down your favorite climb. Try looking at your normal route differently!

Above all...get out there, have fun, be safe and ride to your heart's content this summer on the BRaB!!

~Kaitlin

Bicycling.com's How to Have More Fun was my inspiration...I adapted a bit from their list...how much more fun can you add to your summer?

Races With a Twist (and not just in the route)

Back Roads and Beaches Run, Wine and Dine

It's that time of year again! The weather is warmer, the days are longer, and local races are popping up left and right. Have you ran the same local 5k every year for as long as you can remember? Looking for a way to spice things up while still getting your competition fix? Here’s a sampling of unique events happening this summer that might be just what you're looking for.

Triathlons/Duathlons 

What changes things up more than a race where you bike, swim, and run all in the same event?

June 9th Support the Games Triathlon

Findley State Park, Wellington Ohio

This particular event of the Ohio Police and Fire Games has been opened to the public so anyone is welcome to participate in this race. If you're a first responder and are interested in the other games, click here.

July 7 27th Annual NCN Summer Triathlon/Duathlon
Lakeview Park, Lorain Ohio
Held at beautiful Lakeview Park in Lorain, this is an annual tradition for many athletes. You can't beat Lake Erie for a great triathlon venue. Which brings us to....

August 17th and 18th Vermilion Harbour Triathlon/Duathlon and Kidz Triathlon and Duathlon

Linwood Park, Vermilion Ohio

Is racing a family event in your house? Do you want it to be? Bring your kids, siblings, nieces, nephews, or even little cousins to the Kids Tri and Du and start grooming a new training partner! Cheer them on to the finish Saturday, then stick around and trade places on Sunday for the Vermilion Harbour Tri and Du. You can register for either or both events here. 

Unique Races

These runs have some really fun and different aspects to them. All the benefits of a standard 5k with a little something special. 

June 30th Columbia Station Half Marathon and Inline Skate

Copopa Elementary School, Columbia Station Ohio

You read that correctly! In this race you can choose to run or skate your way to the finish line. This will definitely be a one of a kind experience!

August 17th Back Roads and Beaches 5k/10k Run Wine and Dine

Oberlin Inn, Oberlin Ohio

What's the most unique thing about this event? The 5 pm start time, or maybe the glass of post-race beer, wine, or soda included in registration? Don't forget to stick around after the race for the live music! This is sure to be a great time for you and the cheering section you bring along!

Cycling 

Don't worry cyclists- we didn't forget you!

July 21st The Thorn Trail Time Trial

Findley State Park, Wellington Ohio

This single track mountain bike race is all about the ride! Get training for The Thorn Trail Time Trial and see how well you can navigate this challenging path compared to fellow cyclists. 

"Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" inspires - Places to pick up fresh produce

Roadside stands can be found throughout summer along
the route. 

After watching the documentary Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead, we were inspired by Joe Cross and the way he traveled around with his juicer to share his health epiphany with others. (Watch the documentary for free on Hulu here).There are many places around the Back Roads and Beaches Route to find fresh, local produce to put into your juicer. Soon, there will be an abundance of produce in-season at our stands and markets. In addition to those listed below, you will find random produce stands all around the Back Roads and Beaches Route. Here are some details:

Permanent sources of fresh produce:

Fitch’s Farm Market (4413 Center Rd., Avon OH 440.934.6125) Open mid-April to mid-November. Market and pick your own produce. Click here to see what’s in season.

Fligner’s Market (1854 Broadway Ave., Lorain OH 440.244.5173) Fresh fruits and top quality veggies. Extensive selection of produce.

Grobe Fruit Farm (43875 Telegraph Rd., Elyria OH 440.322.8312)  Fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, and pastuerized cider. Farm market open from July through April offering fresh vegetables grown on their farm. Summer brings sweet corn, tomatoes and other vegetables, while fall brings apples and apple cider, with pumpkins and fall decorations coming the 1st of October.

Jamies Flea Market (46388 Telegraph Rd., Amherst OH, 440.986.4402) usually has between 3–6 produce vendors every Wed and Sat during the summer months.

Miller’s Apple Hill (50549 SR 113, Henrietta Twp OH, 440.965.7077) Pick your own apples and a variety of bulk foods.

Spiegelberg Orchards (6161 Middle Ridge Rd., Amherst, OH 440.233.6083) Family run farm market offering fresh produce including apples, peaches and pears grown in their own local orchard. Fresh cider available all year long.

Weekly vendor set-up type markets:

Oberlin Farmers Market: From May 4th–October 26, 2013 the market will be open on Saturdays from 9am–1pm. The market sets up in downtown Oberlin in front of the Oberlin Public Library. Produce vendors, grass fed beef and chicken, fresh eggs, baked goods, jams and jellies and more.

Village of Grafton Farmers Market (Old Town Hall), every Sat, July–Oct. 9am–1pm.

Wellington Farmers Market (corner of North Main & Taylor St). From June 15–October 25 the marketing will be open Fridays from 5–7pm.

So, there you go...whether you just want to pick up some fresh produce to add into a great recipe or you want to juice it up, you can barely throw a rock around here and not hit something fresh! Enjoy!

Ready to run!

Spring has sprung, well it sure is trying to anyway. Have you dusted off those running shoes? Hope so, because we have a handful of spring runs and walks to recommend to get you moving!

Tappan Square, Oberlin in bloom

April 20th Earthday 5k Run/Walk
Tappan Square, Oberlin
The mission of the Earthday 5K is to endorse and primote the celebration of the enviroment, good health and service to our community.

April 20th Tree Trotter Half Marathon and 3.5 Mile Run
Wellington Reservation, Wellington
You can also participate in a 1.8 mile Fun Walk. All proceeds benefit the Citizens Committee for Lorain County Metro Parks.

April 27th  Home Run for the Homeless 5K Run/1 Mile Walk
All Pro Freight Stadium, Avon
Event to educate about Neighborhood Alliance's programs and services. 100% of all money raised will benefit the Haven Center, Lorain County's year round homeless shelter.

May 11th Lorain County Heart Walk 
Avon Commons, Avon
This 1 and 3 mile walk supports the American Heart Association.

Celebrating winter!

This little arctic blast may take you off two wheels for a few days, but it definitely doesn't take you off the Back Roads and Beaches Multi-Sport Route. Discover something exciting along the BRaB this winter.

Winter Days Festival photo by Mark Teleha

With our temps in the twenties this weekend, it’s fitting for the Lorain County Metro Parks annual Winter Days festival to be held Saturday (Jan 26th) from 10 to 4 at the Vermilion River Reservation. We don’t sit back and endure winter in north central Ohio, we celebrate it! And why not? It’s one of our four most beautiful seasons! So bundle up and enjoy the crisp winter air while taking in dog sled presentations, ice carving demonstrations, sleigh (carriage) rides, live music, a chili cook-off and be sure to BYOS – “bring your own sled” to cruise down their great sledding hill! You can warm up throughout the day in the Carriage Barn and purchase refreshments before you head back out for more.

Not seeing a big thaw in our future, we gear up for another cool event…the 5^th Annual Ice-A-Fair to Remember on Saturday February 2^nd from 11 to 4 in Downtown Vermilion. Cycle down Liberty and Main Streets, stroll or catch Lolly the Trolley and marvel at the sight of over 50 ice carvings, some carved on site!! Stop in the quaint shops and restaurants downtown to warm up and grab a bite to eat.

Excitement along the BRaB is waiting for you...don't forget your camera!

For dining, shopping and lodging listings go to www.visitloraincounty.com or call us at 800.334.1673

Snow Sports

Snow doesn't always mean putting the bike away!

The cold and snowy winter season is thoroughly upon us Ohioans, and with that comes the opportunity for winter sports! Of course, snow is by no means needed for all winter sports. Any day this winter you can head out for a hike somewhere like the Vermillion River Reservation, Findley State Park (check out their annual winter hike in February), or Indian Hollow Reservation. And you can always hit the North Park Ice Arena for an afternoon of skating.

Hiking in the Lorain County Metro Parks

For now, we do have plenty of snow so take the opportunity to go snowshoeing at one of the Lorain County Metro Parks. You'll have the choice at becoming part of a program, or just renting the shoes on an hourly basis. People of any age can get energized by heading out on a snowshoeing adventure. And what a unique twist on your usual day of hiking!

Keep in mind you can find plenty of great cross country skiing. Parks like the Black River Reservation and the North Cost Inland Trail allow you to ski right here in Lorain County. Grab  pair of skis and head out at your own pace for a great afternoon.