Traveling just over 18 miles through some of the most scenic areas of the Buckeye State, the Richland B&O Trail is an ideal way to immerse oneself in the region. Built partially as a result of the National Trails System Act amended in 1983, the path follows the disused line of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad along a semicircular route between Butler and Mansfield in north-central Ohio. In addition to presenting stunning views and abundant wildlife, the trail passes through quaint towns with shops and restaurants.
About the Route
Leaving from the southern end of the trail at Frances Hitchman Park in Butler, where commemorative benches depict the history of the railroad that operated along the corridor. Head northwest as the trail zigzags across several roads and weaves in and out of rural landscapes. Just outside of town, the trail crosses a fork of the Mohican River and trail users can enjoy beautiful views of the valley from the bridge. On the far side of the slow-moving river, the trail takes trail users into quiet rural fields. At the next crossing of OH 97, note that trail users have a stop sign and that motorists have only a warning sign, so use caution.
Cross the river again on a unique curved-deck iron trestle bridge that leads into Bellville, about 5 miles from the start. Just over the bridge, the Bellville trailhead is located in a railroad depot that’s a replica of the one built in 1906. The depot offers restrooms, parking, and some interesting information about the area's history. Several more road crossings are ahead, as is a view south toward downtown Bellville with its classic small-town Main Street shopping district.
After crossing OH 97 again, the path reaches Alexander Road. Here, trail users will find many restaurants; just take a right at this crossroads. Continuing, the trail passes underneath I-71 and then experiences a serene journey for the next 2-plus miles, with only one rural road crossing and a few farm fields breaking up the pleasant forested environment.
Coming out of the forest, the trail parallels South Mill Street for about 1 mile and passes a water treatment plant just before arriving in Lexington. The Lexington Senior Civic Center (a former depot) on the left side of the trail provides a restroom and a place to fill your water bottle, the last opportunity for a pit stop for nearly 7 miles.
At mile 15, the trail arrives at Deer Park, which supplies basic trailhead amenities, before arriving at Home Road Marsh. Here, trail users may have the opportunity to see an abundance of bird species, from swallows to hawks, as well as an assortment of other animals, including turtles, snakes, deer, and raccoons. Rest on one of the many benches and observe wildlife. Afterward, reach Mansfield and the tranquil northern end of the trail at North Lake Park.
The Richland B&O Trail runs between Francis Hitchman Park (Butler) and North Lake Park, 268 Hope Rd. (Mansfield), with parking available at either end.
Parking is also available at:
Please see TrailLink Map for all parking options and detailed directions.
First time on this trail. Started off at the North Lake park. The covered trail with the tree canopy was a little chilly. But the views were amazing. Traffic was very light. The path is well maintained. This is one of my favorite thus far.
Not sure what the September reviews are talking about. Rode this trail today from route 97 to Mansfield and back, for 21 miles. We had no scary issues. A few bumps. Awesome crisp fall day. The fences were in place to protect from going into a deep ravines. We would ride this trail again. Not on a Sunday because the nearby Der Dutchman restaurant was closed. ¿
We started off at the trail head in Mansfield. Was not going to park my car in that neighborhood. Ended up driving to Butler and working our way back. Was kinda cool in the start seeing some crop dusters type planes getting ready to take off. Trail was in decent shape, had dog in trailer and was hoping for some water to let her swim, was 85 degrees. There was a blue bridge, maybe Belleville but the little park we could have stopped at said Private Property so we tracked on. We ended up going the whole trail and when we arrived back close to Mansfield we decided to turn around when I started seeing barbed wire on fence. It was pretty open in many areas and very hot. Some cool looking buildings but some really dangerous intersections and 90% of drivers will not stop for you. No intention return to this trail but can say we completed.
We rode the trail from Butler to the trails end in Mansfield (slightly uphill). Shady for the most part…, with a blend of countryside to Urban all along the way. There were several places along the way to stop and take breaks (if needed). There are numerous places where the road crossings were dangerous, due to the volume of traffic.
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