Planning a hiking trip in Ohio has never been easier.
Last week, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) unveiled a new mobile/web-based resource designed to help outdoor enthusiasts plan their perfect adventure across thousands of miles of trails throughout the state.
The new DETOUR trails app is Ohio’s new go-to source for authoritative trail information for both to beginner and expert-trail users. You can search for trails by region, level of difficulty, activity, type, and distance. The app also has featured routes, provides driving directions to trailheads, and even includes information for trail managers.
“Ohio is a great place for families to live, work, learn, and play,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “This new app will help bring friends and families together by connecting them to Ohio’s abundant trail system and natural outdoor beauty.”
Trail usage has increased exponentially on ODNR-managed trails over the past year, which I think we can all agree is a great thing. But sometimes little barriers pop-up, like knowing where to park or how to find a trailhead, that impede our desire to explore. That’s where DETOUR app comes in so handy.
“With the DETOUR app, it’s like having a personal trails guide in your pocket,” said ONDR Director Mary Mertz. “The app highlights nearby trail systems and promotes lesser-known trail gems found throughout the state.”
Trail routes included in this first public release of DETOUR include those managed by ODNR as well as trail routes managed by many others, including: City of Columbus, Cleveland Metroparks, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Great Parks of Hamilton County, Lake Metroparks, Medina County Park District, MetroParks of Butler County, Wayne National Forest, Metroparks Toledo, Central Ohio Greenways, and Summit Metro Parks.
The DETOUR trail inventory will continue to grow. Trail managers in Ohio who are interested in having their trails included in the app can get more info through trails@ohio.gov.
To access the web app, visit DETOURtrails.ohiodnr.gov. For mobile devices, the app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for free.
Although you can sign in as a guest, app users are encouraged to set up a user profile, which will allow them to record trips, upload photos, and provide feedback on your trail experience. You’ll also be able to track progress along the trail, save your favorite trail routes, and help out other hikers by reporting problems you find on trails like downed trees or trail erosion.
The state’s extensive network of recreational trails includes the Ohio to Erie Trail, which spans more than 326 miles from Cincinnati to Cleveland and the looping 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail that covers Ohio from corner to corner.