10/27/2026
Stellar is one of many adjectives to describe this October in Ohio. I don't believe it can get better than it has been, for riding a bicycle, all throughout this great state. There is still more to come and it's not over just yet according to forecasts!
Our phones and messages are winding down these days and we are turning thoughts and efforts into thinking what next season might look like for the shuttle. It's been a great time and we certainly will be back in 2027 to repeat a few fond memories!
Anyway a few notes on a couple publicized detours and safety in general -
1. Cuyahoga Valley Park Peninsula-Boston area (NPS) -Probably fairly long term project. This one is manageable for most. It's probably easier going South to North than North to South but either way is fine. Yes, there are a few climbs in either direction but generally no big deal managing this one if you have a reasonable comfort level in on-road or bike lane scenarios. I would not attempt to ride through the detour or closed signage. You risk a ticket/fines. US Park Rangers are taking this closure seriously so expect robust confrontation if signs are ignored.
2. The South Lebanon situation - This is a long-term project that will be in effect into 2027. Well, this one is not quite so easy and the detour route is definitely tougher and carries more risk due to high traffic volume of all manner and kind. . You will need to be able to handle road riding in heavier traffic or if not then probably best to avoid the area altogether.
Currently, the work is under (48 bridge) and close to Route 48. It is a total mess in there now. Anyway- I did proceed to enter this zone recently (reporter mindset) to chat with the workers on whether or not passage could be possible via a "walk through." I was told the crew will indeed permit a walk through but I was advised that ODNR Parks officers are on-site in the immediate area and ticketing anyone who attempts it. On that particular morning, I was told two cyclists had been ticketed. The crewman said to me- "perhaps the ticket cost is worth it to avoid the detour-it's the cyclist's choice." I thanked him for the advice and indicated I would pass on the news so there you have it.
I would strongly advise use of the posted (OTET) detour route without exception in this area. That detour works fine but it does carry risks for those uncomfortable in these potentially more difficult/hazardous road riding scenarios. This is going to be our reality for 2027 as it appears so decisions will have to be made on whether to work through it (This is what I would do) or start/end a ride to avoid the area altogether. (Risk averse approach)
FInal word concerning safety in intersections and crossings- We had a rescue in recent days involving a rider (on-foot) being struck by a motorist. The couple had concluded their ride for the day near a very popular trail hotel and proceeded to cross the busy street/intersection for dinner using the crosswalk. They received a green signal and proceeded across when a car quickly turned left, into them, striking the female and fracturing her pelvis. Very serious and it sounds like there may have been nothing they could have done to prevent it. The motorist was cited but the pain remains. The other person was not struck but a near miss.
Anyway- please use caution on any trail/roadway crossings. We have numerous roadway crossings and intersections on and around this trail. I would recommend looking at each motorist in the intersection once you have a green and before you proceed. It helps me to slow things down a bit and If I see them looking at me- I go. Works either on foot or bike. My head remains on a swivel during the crossing.
I hope these few remarks add value to your thoughts/ planning moving forward!
Cheers as we wind down 2026!
