National Road Bikeway

Ohio

11 Reviews

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National Road Bikeway Facts

States: Ohio
Counties: Belmont
Length: 2.6 miles
Trail end points: Reservoir Rd/Twnshp 278 and North Market St./Twnshp 435 (St. Clairsville)
Trail surfaces: Asphalt
Trail category: Rail-Trail
ID: 6121451

National Road Bikeway Description

Though only 2.5 miles, the National Road Bikeway features an impressive below-grade tunnel, which was built in 1902. The narrow tunnel is 532 feet long and is lighted but still gives you the impression of passing through a cave. Water trickles from the ceiling. A platform above the tunnel allows views of the trail. You'll also cross a 342-foot bridge, and be prepared to slow down for the gazebo—smack in the middle of the trail.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking is available at both ends: on the south at Township Hwy 278 nr. Wamock St. Clairsville Rd. (SR 9); on the north at N. Market St. (Township Hwy 435).

National Road Bikeway Reviews

A Visually Appealing Well-Maintained Trail

I rode a 5 mile round trip on this trail on a beautiful fall day. The trail is well maintained and in its short length has several interesting visual features such as two tunnels, a gazebo, and a 40 foot high trestle. Small markers along the way commemorate the conversion of the once rail line into a trail. The tunnels run under Interstate 70 and US-40 which historically is the old National Road from which the trail gets its name. For a rail trail it features quite a bit of elevation gain over its 2.5 mile length with a gain of about 223 feet. However, since it is a rail trail, the rise is never physically taxing. The only reason I did not rate this trail as a 5-star trail is because its short length leaves you wanting it to be longer.

We really enjoyed this trail! 5 miles round trip, nice shade, would have loved if it was longer. Good workout as it's up hill each way to the middle, then downhill to the ends. Plus, it has outhouses! (Always a plus for me!)

We really enjoyed this trail! 5 miles round trip, nice shade, would have loved if it was longer. Good workout as it's up hill each way to the middle, then downhill to the ends. Plus, it has outhouses! (Always a plus for me!)

Good for runners

This is a good trail to run. It's paved, away from downtown, and peaceful. There is a water fountain as well.

Valley trail

This trail is small in lentgh, but maintained well. 2 tunnels, bridge overpass and a ride thru sprinkler. Always a quick, but enjoyable ride. There are a couple off shoots for hikers/walkers. I hope they can extend the trail a little farther. I always climb towards the baseball fields and extend the opposite direction with some riding on Reservoir Road. Great little ride.

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