The trail is in good shape, but even combined with the Lake Alma portion it is very short. That's why I can only give the trail itself 3 stars. But Lake Alma State Park is so pretty if you combine the bike trail with some walking and picnicking there, which is what I did on 10/17/14, it can add up to a very enjoyable 5 star trip.

As of 10/17/2014, when I made the trip to ride this trail, it was closed at about midpoint for repair to a bridge. I couldn't find any information as to when it would re-open.
It's a nice little trail, but even fully open there simply isn't enough of it to be good for more than locals, or for inclusion with other activities in the area.
I'll probably try again next year, but only in conjunction with planning to spend some time at the riverfront park, and visiting nearby Bob Evans Farm in Rio Grande.
If you do make the trip to ride it, don't bother crossing the busy, four-lane highway on the Holzer Hospital end. The trail abruptly ends underneath State Route 35 after about 100 yards. (I drove around and found another entry point, only to find that out.)

My son and I rode this trail 7-22-13. We began at Haskins Memorial Park in Gallipolis. The trail is paved and easy to follow. Flat like most rail trails. The trail description boasts of 8 miles to be ridden, but, as we discovered, only about 4 miles are rideable. (Is that a word?) The trail ends abruptly in a mess of weeds and brier patches after just about 4 miles. Nice trail but not very long. We rode end to end several times to log some miles.

The part of the trail that this map shows is impassable on the southern end just outside of Bidwell. There are trees and brush covering the path. Only about a half mile is ride-able and bumpy at that. Ride the bike trail that goes through the city of Gallipolis instead, starting near Holzer Hospital where it is actually paved and kept up.

Just got back from my first time on this trail. Very nice asphalt path good for bike riding and walking. Need to be careful running since there are spots with some large gravel pieces that have been kicked on the path when the shoulders were mowed. There is a good amount of shade and places to rest. At the one end is the Veterans Memorial Park with a gazebo to sit at and a playground nearby for the kids.

We use this quite trail frequently. It is asphalted and well kept. There are several rest areas with benches however there are no facilities along the trail. The trail is mostly treelined and level. It is quiet, even though it is fairly heavily used by bicyclists, walkers and joggers. Be prepared for the other users to be friendly.