Ohio Designated New 167-Mile River Water Trail
State officials have officially launched a new paddling route stretching from Coal Grove to Cincinnati.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Hiking
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The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has designated a 167-mile stretch of the Ohio River as an official state water trail. This new route runs from Ice Creek in Coal Grove to Shawnee Outlook Park in Cincinnati.
Why it matters
This designation marks the 18th Ohio Water Trail in the state, offering residents a new organized corridor for river recreation. It serves as a local segment of the larger 308-mile Ohio River Way that spans three states.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources officially established the 167-mile trail on October 1, 2026. This adds to the existing network of 18 water trails currently managed by the state.
The players
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
The state agency responsible for managing natural resources, wildlife, and the official designation of public water trails in Ohio.
The details
The newly designated trail follows the Ohio River, utilizing the natural waterway to create a continuous recreational path. It connects starting at Ice Creek and concludes at Shawnee Outlook Park in Cincinnati, integrating into the interstate Ohio River Way system. This infrastructure helps standardize signage and access points for paddlers and boaters along the river corridor.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources designated the water trail.
December 2026: Expected release of walleye spawning survey findings.
Health Landscape
The designation of the new 167-mile Ohio Water Trail extends the recreational utility of the larger 308-mile Ohio River Way. It reflects a broader effort to expand access to outdoor physical activity through organized state-managed water corridors.
Paddling this new water trail offers a cardiovascular and strength-building workout accessible to residents across the region. You should check local maps for designated entry points and ensure you have proper safety gear before navigating the river.
The takeaway
Organized water trails provide a structured way to engage in regular physical activity while enjoying the natural environment. If you are planning an excursion, verify the current river conditions and water safety guidelines with the state before heading out.
What happens next
The Ohio Division of Wildlife plans to release findings from its latest walleye spawning survey in December 2026.
Further reading
For more on local outdoor opportunities, browse our Hiking archives.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cleveland.
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