The Mohican Valley Trail is a 4.5 mile span between the Kokosing Gap and the Holmes County Trail in Knox County, Ohio. The three trails follow the same former rail corridor and comprise a significant part of the larger Ohio-to-Erie Trail. The Mohican Valley's western endpoint is in Danville, while the eastern end lies just east of the Mohican River in Brinkhaven.
Bridge of Dreams over the Mohican River
Where the trail crosses the Mohican River you pass over the 370' long Bridge of Dreams that has been constructed atop an old railroad bridge. This covered bridge is reported to be the longest in Ohio and the 2nd longest in the nation!
The Mohican Valley Trail is horse friendly and as a result offers an unusual configuration. It's actually two trails placed side-by-side -- one earthen path for horses & buggies alongside a gravel trail for bikers and hikers. At least that was the original configuration when it was initially constructed. Meanwhile, Mother Nature has been busy blending the two surfaces together. Rain, snow and ice have had a positive impact in changing the trail into one uniform, smoother surface. Dirt has washed over the gravel sections, filling in the gaps between larger gravel, smoothing out the bike side of the trail. While the soft dirt has compacted considerably, firming up the opposite side for horse and buggy use. The result is a much improved ride for everyone!
The grade of the trail surface varies. Most of the trail has you either climbing or descending gradual, gentle pitches. The trail does briefly drop down to one road crossing where the inclines on either side are considerably steeper.
As the trail approaches the Mohican River it begins to ride the crest of a ridge with significant drop-offs on either side. Previously you had to be careful here as the gravel sometimes sloped downward along one edge of the trail. But that threat was no longer apparent as the path is now better established and solid. Ruts from buggy wheels are less of an issue now and the full width of the trail can be used as intended.
Trail rules here are a bit different and users should take time to read the posted guidelines as many cyclists may not be familiar with sharing a trail with horses. Trail rules can also be found on the Knox County web site.
Trailhead near Brinkhaven, Ohio
The trail is very rural. You will find few amenities along the way. The trailhead at the Mohican River near Brinkhaven has a latrine and a recently installed well pump. On my last visit the pump was not operational as the handle had been removed.
Connections to the Kokosing & Holmes County Trails are easy to make. The east end of the Mohican Valley Trail connects directly to the Holmes County Trail (see map) where the trail becomes double track. This is the start of an unfinished section into Holmes County.
The west end of the trail is in Danville, a few yards from the intersection of East & North Streets. From here you're only a few blocks from Main Street (Rt. 62). Ride straight for about 3 blocks and turn right on Washington Street. Travel another 2 blocks or so to Main Street, Rt. 62. From here you'll see Bike Route signs that direct you to the Kokosing Gap Trail. You may also notice Mohican Valley Trail signs directing you back to the Mohican Trail.
Remembering how rough the trail had been on a previous visit, I opted to ride my mountain bike this time, but a cross or hybrid bike could also be used. But you'll want to leave the skinny tires at home.
Overall the trail is much more of an enjoyable ride now. I believe this is the first review I've written where trail conditions have improved over time without any additional trail construction! And of course, the Bridge of Dreams is a must-see.
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