Ohio is a popular vacation for tourists, thanks to its offer of small-town retreats, cosmopolitan experiences, and various nature escapes. But apart from your usual vacation trips, Ohio also offers unique experiences for biking enthusiasts. However, you don’t have to bring your bike on your journey. Instead, you can rent an e-bike and join a tour to one of the best places in Ohio.
My top 3 favorite places to take an eBike tour in Ohio are the Wabash Cannonball Trail, Ohio To Erie Trail, and Alum Creek Trail.
Pack your bags, rent an e-bike and plan your trip to one of the e-bike tours below.
1. Wabash Cannonball Trail
In northwestern Ohio, Wabash Cannonball is a 66-mile trail stretching through four counties. Touring this trail will take you to the unique natural area in Ohio – the Oak Openings.
When To Go
The best time to visit Wabash Cannonball Trail is in the summer. Going on a tour during this season ensures no rain or bad weather will come your way.
What To Bring
The tour will last for less than an hour, so you need:
- enough snacks and water
- a biking pack for your personal belongings
- pocket money
- elbow and knee pads
- biking gloves
- a camera or your phone
Where to get an Ebike 👉 Wabash Cannonball Ebike Tour
Costs
A tour of the Wabash Cannonball Trail costs $64 and lasts only half an hour. It will explore various attractions, such as monuments made in honor of Maj. Gen. Anthony Wayne, soldiers, and the American Indians who died in the Battle Of Fallen Timbers. (source)
Tour Highlights
Exploring Wabash Cannonball Trail will allow you to see various historical attractions, such as the above monuments. But while these attractions can already make your tour worth it, the tour’s highlight will be the Oak Openings.
Oak Openings earned its name due to the widely-spaced oak trees growing in the area. The spaces between the trees make touring on an e-bike a breeze, giving you more places to explore. Apart from the giant oak trees, this nature area is also home to wetlands and sandy regions filled with plants and shrubs.
The Nature Conservancy once included the vegetated sand region of Oak Openings in the list of “Last Great Places On Earth.” This title alone is evidence that the area is worth visiting. (source)
Ride eMTB Trip Tip: If you don’t have an eBike renting is easy. Checkout 👉 Where to Rent an eBike in Ohio
2. Ohio To Erie Trail
Ohio To Erie Trail is a popular spot for people looking for longer adventures. This trail system measures 326 miles and links Cincinnati’s Ohio River to Cleveland’s Lake Erie.
When To Go
Ohio To Erie Trail is open throughout the year, so you can visit it whenever you prefer. However, the best time to embark on an adventure on this trail is in the fall. During this time, you can see the beautiful fall foliage as you explore the trail.
What To Bring
- a biking pack where you can store your personal belongings
- snacks and water
- pocket money
- biking protective equipment (tour operators provide helmets)
- proper biking clothes and shoes
- bike lock
Ride eMTB Tip: This is an amazing multi-day trip traveling from Inn to Inn. Learn more 👉 Adventure Cycling Ohio to Erie Ride
Costs
Exploring Ohio to Erie Trail will take eight days and costs $2,899. While the tour is expensive, it includes the e-bike you will use, meals and accommodation. You do not have to take care of your hotel and food once you sign up for the tour. (source)
Tour Highlights
Traveling Ohio To Erie Trail will take you to two highlights. The first one is the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge located in Cincinnati. This 1057-foot-long bridge suspends at the top of the Ohio River. First used on January 1, 1867, the bridge remains safe and in prime condition after more than 100 years. This bridge was also once the longest in the world.
The second highlight of the tour is a trip to Lake Erie. This great lake has warm and shallow waters, making it biologically productive. Out of the Great Lakes in the US, Lake Erie is the smallest. But despite its size, its beauty is undoubtedly worth visiting. (source)
3. Alum Creek Trail
Alum Creek Trail is ideal for people who seek to visit places that will bring them closer to nature. It combines paved and dirt paths, giving your tour a bit of an adventure.
When To Go
Alum Creek Trail is accessible all year round. For this reason, you can pick the best time to visit it and embark on an adventure. In addition, this tour is self-guided, so you are in control of your time.
What To Bring
- a camera
- snacks and water
- pocket money
- elbow and knee pads
- comfortable biking clothes and shoes
- bike lock
Ride eMTB Tip: Looking for more information about this tour? Read more 👉 HERE
Tour Highlights
Alum Creek Trail is one of the most beautiful trails in Columbus, Ohio. This trail will take you from Westerville through Columbus, a scenic landscape that highlights your tour. You can stop by this area to take some photos and appreciate the peace being close to nature can bring.
The trail has a paved path that makes exploring the place accessible. As you drive your electric bike, you will pass by various views that will make you appreciate nature. Most of the trail has dense trees, while some parts run along the river.
In addition, Alum Creek has many bridges with different architectural styles, making the trail a picturesque place to visit. (source)
I’ve got a group of articles explaining why eBikes are Awesome Check Them Out Below 👇
- I love riding eBikes, want to learn why? Read 👉 What Are The (Great) Features of Electric Bikes?
- Are you weighing the Pros and Cons of getting an eBike? Let me help 👉 Electric Bike Pros and Cons
- Interested in how it “feels” to ride an eBike? Awesome 👉 What Does it Feel Like to Ride an eBike?
- What is “Pedal Assist? Let me explain it in this article. 👉 What is Pedal Assist and How Does it Work?
4. Holmesville
Holmesville is the Amish Country of Ohio. Touring this village will allow you to experience a unique culture far from city life.
When To Go
The best time to visit Amish Country is in June, August, and September. Temperatures are warm during these months, thus making your trip comfortable.
What To Bring
- stretchable and breathable biking clothes
- closed-toe sports shoes
- snacks and hydration (water or energy drink)
- a biking pack to carry your personal belongings
- a camera
Costs
This tour is self-guided, so you only need to pay for the rental electric bike you will use. The rental e-bike’s cost starts at $75, including the helmet you can use throughout the tour. You can also rent a bike lock and pannier bag, which costs $5 and $7, respectively. (source)
Tour Highlights
When touring Holmesville, one of the best places to visit is Holmes County Trail. The trail is asphalt from beginning to end, making it easy to explore and bike on. Canopies of trees shade most of the path and make the trip breezy. And since you are touring in Amish Country, you will see Amish people riding their horses as you ride on Holmes Country Trail.
Exploring Holmesvville will also allow you to understand other cultures. Amish people are reclusive and bowed never to use technology and electricity. Hence, their way of life differs from what is common worldwide. That said, visiting Holmesville will show you the simplicity of life that Amish people live. (source)
eBike Tours In Texas (Two Wheel Vacation Locations)
Texas is one of the best places to explore in the US. This state is geographically and culturally diverse, offering you the best of both worlds. If you want t experience…
Where To Rent An Ebike In Texas (Electrify Your Bike Ride)
Texas is rich in diverse landscapes and good food, making it a perfect tourist spot for people looking for endless outdoor activities. Even better, one of the best things about Texas…
Where To Rent An Ebike In Pennsylvania (Sightseeing Fun)
Pennsylvania is rich in history, and its tourist attractions remind people how the state contributed to American history. Fortunately, you can explore these attractions by renting and riding an e-bike. My…
Where To Rent An Ebike In Ohio (Two Wheel Fun!)
Ohio packs great views that you can easily reach if you have an e-bike. But if you are on vacation, bringing your electric bike can be a hassle due to its…
eBike Tours In Ohio (Vacation Locations)
Ohio is a popular vacation for tourists, thanks to its offer of small-town retreats, cosmopolitan experiences, and various nature escapes. But apart from your usual vacation trips, Ohio also offers unique…
Where To Rent An Ebike In Illinois (Fun on Two Wheels)
Illinois has lively bike roads, trails, and tourist attractions. In fact, this place is one of the best places to ride a bike. So, get your gear ready, check the best…
5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit for tourists and e-bike enthusiasts. With the beauty of the national park, it looks like a place from worlds away.
When To Go
It is best to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park during the fall months, August to October. This park has dense forests, so visiting in the fall will let you witness the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage.
What To Bring
Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a vast place of adventure. For this reason, you need to bring the following items:
- breathable yet protective biking clothes and shoes
- protective biking equipment
- snacks and water
- helmet (tour operators provide one, but you can opt to use your own)
Ride eMTB Tip: Looking for more information about riding an eBike in CVNP? Read more 👉 Century Cycles
Costs
During a self-guided tour, you only need to pay for the rental electric bike you will use. The e-bike costs $12 an hour, and the rental and tour duration solely depends on your preference. You may also need some pocket money if you want to buy something while on your way. (source)
Tour Highlights
Exploring the Cuyahoga Valley National Park will allow you to feast your eyes on various forms of wildlife. The park is home to flora and fauna, making it an excellent place for people looking for a peaceful tour.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is also an excellent place to visit for tourists and biking enthusiasts looking for a challenging adventure. The site has numerous cool areas you can explore. There are fantastic rock cliffs where you can hike if you want to do some things other than biking. Thundering waterfalls are also in the park, making them an excellent background for taking photos. Wildflowers and trees surround the trail where you will drive your electric bike, thus giving you a close-to-nature feel.
But out of all the park highlights, the best area you can visit is Brandywine Falls. While you may need to take a hike to reach the falls, the hike is a great adventure. The reason is that you will be able to see wonderful scenery. (source)
6. Sandusky Bay
People know Sandusky as a place brimming with water parks and amusement parks. These activities, along with the beaches accessible in the area, makes Sandusky Bay worth visiting,
When To Go
There is no better time to visit Sandusky Bay than the summer. You can enjoy busking under the sun after your biking trip, take a dip, and enjoy the amenities the place offers. Still, Sandusky Bay is open all year long, so you can visit it at your most convenient time.
What To Bring
It is crucial to prepare when going on an electric bike tour appropriately. That said, you need to bring the following:
- protective biking equipment
- comfortable and breathable biking clothes
- closed-toe footwear
- biking gloves
- a camera or your phone
- sufficient snacks and water
- sunscreen
Costs
The cost of a self-guided tour to Sandusky Bay starts at $39.95. The price will increase depending on how long you rent the electric bike you will use. Tour operators will allow you to rent an e-bike for p to 24 hours. (source)
Tour Highlights
Sandusky Bay is a fantastic place to visit. But out of all the areas you will go to, the highlight of your tour is the ride by Medusa Marsh, where you can watch bald eagles as they fly in the air.
Medusa Marsh is an excellent place for bird-watching. While riding your electric bike, you will see different species of birds, such as waterfowl, as they arrive in the area. After a good time on an e-bike trip and wildlife viewing, you can fill your stomach with a good meal at one of the restaurants near Medusa Marsh.
If wildlife viewing is not your thing, you can take a quick stop at the Sandusky Bay Pathway for a photo session or sightseeing. (source)
RIDE eMTB Tour Tip: Grab this FREE PDF Checklist containing a list of items to consider before an eBike Tour. 👉 eBike Tour Accessories Checklist
7. Hockhocking Adena Bikeway
Sometimes, you just need to tour somewhere scenic and quiet. If such a place is what you are looking for, Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is a perfect choice.
When To Go
Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is a 22-mile biking trail open all year round. For this reason, you can choose whatever is the best time for you to visit it. Just check the weather forecast before going on a tour to ensure the weather will be fine all day.
What To Bring
During a self-guided tour of Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, you need to have:
- a small first-aid kit
- a biking pack for your personal belongings
- biking clothes and shoes
- sufficient snacks and hydration
- pocket money
Costs
A self-guided tour of the said bikeway will have varying costs, depending on the e-bike model you will rent.
- Trek And Specialized E-Bikes – $95
- Core-5 – $65
- Giant – $75
The tour will last four hours, covering all the best places Hockhocking Adena Bikeway can offer. (source)
Ride eMTB Tip: Get the MAP for the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway 👉 HERE
Tour Highlights
The highlight of your tour of Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is a ride along the Hocking River. The river is rich in outdoor recreation and history. Native American Tribes used to live in the area, and the river served as a place for their vital food supply. Native Americans used to call the river Hockhochen, which translates to “bottle-shaped.”
Since you are on a self-guided tour, you can stop anytime and try the recreational activities available in the area. For instance, you can try fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can even build a tent and stay overnight for a nature camp. (source)
Frequently Asked Questions About eBike Tours
What kind of eBikes are provided?
Most of the electric bike tours in Ohio provide pedal-assist e-bikes to tour-goers. This type of electric bike consists of a motor that only works when you propel the pedal.
The motor is added to the bike to make pedaling easier, prompting you to use less leg power when maneuvering it. As a result, biking becomes more accessible, even on steep terrains. Using a pedal-assist electric bike will not make you too tired even when you pedal for miles.
How long does an eBike tour take?
Most electric bike tours last for a couple of hours, depending on how vast the place you are exploring is. Some e-bike tours can be as short as two hours, while others last up to a day.
On the other hand, some long bike tours may last for multiple days. Such tours have different day-to-day itineraries, and food and accommodation are usually included.
Are eBike tours safe?
E-bike tours are incredibly safe. Tour operators check their rental e-bikes before a tour-goer can use them. This inspection ensures that the e-bike does not have any damage. Tour operators also sanitize the helmets before letting you use them.
Suppose you are on a guided electric bike tour. In that case, the tour guide who will come with you is knowledgeable enough about the places you will visit so that you will be perfectly safe while on your trip.
Hi David Humphries here the guy doing all the pedaling behind the scenes with this blog. I’ve been in the MTB world for a while and recently started getting into eMTBs. You can check out more about me HERE and on my other passion project – DIYMountainBike.com
Sources
- Adventure Cycling Association. Ohio To Erie Trail: A Midwest Rail Trail Adventure. https://www.adventurecycling.org/guided-tours/inn-to-inn-tours/ohio-to-erie-trail-inn-to-inn/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Mariott Bonvoy Tours & Activities. Wabash Cannonball Ebike Tour. https://activities.marriott.com/things-to-do/V28Hi3LZ1EESp7-wabash-cannonball-ebike-tour. Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Metroparks Toledo. Oak Openings. https://metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/oak-openings-preserve-metropark/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Columbus Bike Tours. Tours. http://columbusbiketours.com/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- TrailLink By Rails-To-Trails Conservancy. Alum Creek Greenway Trail, Ohio. https://www.traillink.com/trail/alum-creek-greenway-trail/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Charged Ride E-Bike Rentals. Rentals. https://chargedride.com/rentals/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Century Cycles Bike Shop. Towpath Trail Bicycle Rental. https://www.centurycycles.com/rentals/towpath-trail-bicycle-rental-pg18.htm. Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park. https://goo.gl/maps/ZXwj88v1qiyXdnrx5. Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Viator: A Tripadvisor Company. E-Bike Rentals along the Sandusky Bay & The Islands. https://www.viator.com/tours/Sandusky/e-Bike-Rentals/d29093-310310P4. Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Ohio Ornithological Society. Birding at Medusa Marsh. https://ohiobirds.org/birding-at-medusa-marsh/ Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Hocking Hills Bike Rentals. Half Day E-Bike Rentals – Hockhocking Adena Bikeway (Rocky Boot Trailhead). https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/hockinghillsbikerental/items/337658/calendar/2023/01/?flow=605125&language=en-us&full-items=yes&back=https://www.hockinghillsbikerentals.com/rentals&a=yes&g4=yes. Accessed January 10, 2023.
- Bikes At Ohio. Hockhocking Adena Bikeway. https://www.bikeathensohio.com/the-bikeway. Accessed January 10, 2023.
