The Ohio to Erie Trail Connection

Newsletter: June 2026

From the Director's saddle

Hello Friends of the Trail! It has been an incredible first few months serving as your Executive Director. This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of riding the "Big Cincinnati Loop," covering 50 miles of our beautiful southern segments. Passing through Loveland and local trail towns, I was struck by the sheer energy on the path—families walking, cyclists gearing up for multi-day treks, and local patios filled with folks enjoying the gorgeous spring weather.

Seeing the trail "in action" reinforces our new strategic focus. While our history successfully focused on physical pavement completion, our future is about enhancing the rider experience. We want to transform our trail towns from simple "pass-through" points into true destination hubs where you can linger, explore, and feel supported at every mile marker. If you see me out there, please say hello!

-Alan Weinstein, Executive Director

☕ COFFEE ON THE TRAIL WITH ALAN!

Want to talk trail experience over a free cup of coffee? Alan wants to hear directly from you. Keep an eye on your email over the summer for locations and times for our Coffee on the Trail meet ups.

2026 OTET Photo Contest

Capture the Spirit of the Trail! Submit your favorite shots through October in our two new categories:

Trail Town Spotlight
Best of the OTET

Winners receive an exclusive OTET merchandise package!

Submit a photo

Trail Town Spotlight: Loveland

As one of the most active stops on the Little Miami Scenic Trail, Loveland offers a dense cluster of historic charm and modern amenities. Explore one of our premier vibrant trailside communities this month!

Whether you are a local or planning a multi-day trip, make sure to check out fantastic bike-friendly spots on your next trek, including Historic Landmarks, Morning Fuel, a vibrant Social Scene and easily accessible camping.

Explore more at the new LovinLife website including links to outdoor adventures, top-level food & drink, one-of-a-kind boutiques & shops – when you come to Loveland, it’s all good.

Learn More

From the President: Tom on the Trails

As Ohio’s cycling season gets underway, check out a recent article from our president’s Tom on the Trails Substack answering the 10 questions bicycle tourists ask most often about riding the Ohio to Erie Trail. Whether you’re planning your first trip or a return adventure across Ohio, the article is filled with practical tips, helpful insights, and real-world advice from the trail. Read the full post on Tom on the Trails Substack and subscribe for future trail stories, touring tips, and reflections on cycling, bikes, and trail towns delivered right to your inbox.

Gear and Safety Tips

OTET Jerseys: Grab your 2026 OTET Prisma Jersey kit. Visit Trail Shop

Share the Path: Give a friendly, loud audible signal ('On your left!') when passing, and control your speed in town hubs.

Heat Management: Plan hydration stops at trail hubs (Xenia, London, Sunbury).

⚠️June Trail Alerts⚠️

Westerville (Central Segment) CLOSED: Core section closed this June for pavement reconstruction. Signed bypass uses Alum Creek trail.
Mathers Mill (Southern Segment) CLOSED: Closed through mid-June for bank stabilization; use our recommended road bypasses.
Kokosing Gap Trail (Central Segment) DELAYS: Preliminary culvert work and clearing are underway ahead of upcoming resurfacing.
Little Miami Scenic Trail (Southern Segment) CLOSED - S. Lebanon Closure - for major sewer infrastructure construction project - affects LMST from Stubbs Mill Road south to the Lebanon Spur.

View Maps + Alerts

326 Club

Riding the trail end to end this summer? Don't forget to tag us @ohiotoerietrail and use our hashtag #Ohio2ErieFinisher on social media.

Also, head over to ohiotoerietrail.org to submit your name and where you're from to be added to the 326 Club registry for 2026.

Join 326 Club

SUPPORT THE OHIO TO ERIE TRAIL

As a non-profit organization, we rely entirely on your generosity to add signs and navigation, keep the path maintained and repaired, and our interactive maps updated. Every dollar directly supports ongoing infrastructure projects and trail community initiatives, ensuring a safe, scenic, and well-maintained trail for everyone. Please consider making a contribution today to help support our ongoing mission across these 326 miles.