While the boys were visiting Trey's parents, Trey and I took the opportunity to schedule a couple of longer rides. We rode 24 miles down to Easton and back on Thursday evening and rode the Thomas J Evans Bike Trail (Johnstown to Newark) on Saturday morning. 
Inflating the tires and preparing for our long ride.
Ready for the start of our 29 mile bike ride!
The Thomas J Evans bike trail rests on the rail bed of the former Toledo and Ohio Central Railroad. It was the first railroad constructed in the region in 1877. The railroad went into service in 1881 and was primarily used as a coal route until the T & OC offered the first passenger line service from Johnstown to Granville ending in "Central City"--old name for the Western edge of Newark. Passenger service on this portion of the rail ended prior to WWII, but freight service continued through 1970. 
The former railroad bed trail winds through trees, with signifcant drop-offs on either side, as well as vast open areas of farm land.
The height of this corn was absolutely amazing to us "city folk". Who knew corn stalks were so tall?!
We passed by this sign and Trey and I both thought it was quite funny. The owner posted a couple of "don't pick the flower" signs--obviously unlawful flower picking is quite a concern to this homeowner.
Below, the calves were so adorable. However, once again these "city folk" have forgotten just how "smelly" cows can be--let's just say that the smell was NOT fresh country air! WOW!!
Below, the calves were so adorable. However, once again these "city folk" have forgotten just how "smelly" cows can be--let's just say that the smell was NOT fresh country air! WOW!!
A lone telegraph pole surrounded by overgrown brush and trees serves as a historical reminder of the railroad that once occupied the space. In addition, the original iron guards still exist on the bridge crossing Raccoon Creek (unfortunately I don't have a picture to display).
The T & OC railroad depot, built in 1880, has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
On our return trip, we opted to visit Granville. We rode past the historic Granville Inn as well as several other outside shops and restaurants. 
Trey and I thoroughly enjoyed our morning ride together from Johnstown, Ohio to Newark, Ohio and back (see picture below for actual route). I love that we've found a new hobby to enjoy together and look forward to our next ride.
2 comments:
How FUN!!!
Glad to see visitors enjoying our many miles of bike trails. I think they're one of Newark, Ohio's best assets.
I never thought out the telegraph poles and the history connected to them. Good catch.
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