
Lock 29 Trailhead
Gateway to the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and Lock 29, with easy access to Peninsula's dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, beautiful foliage

Lock 29 Trailhead
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, beautiful foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and Lock 29, with easy access to Peninsula's dining.
"Awesome trail, went at the start of the great 2025 heat wave and I still had plenty of fun sweating bullets on my bike"

🚲 Bike or Walk the Towpath
The trail is a mix of surfaces, great for cycling or a scenic walk. Explore as far as you like!
🍽️ Grab a Bite in Peninsula
Restaurants are just a short walk away, perfect for refueling after your adventure.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
Directly accessible from the trailhead
Explore miles of scenic trail, perfect for biking or a leisurely walk. Enjoy beautiful river views and historical canal remnants.

Lock 29
Short walk from the trailhead
Discover a well-preserved canal lock with informative description boards detailing its history.

Peninsula Town Access
Adjacent to the trailhead
Stroll into the nearby town for a bite to eat or a break at one of the local restaurants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Conditions
Proximity to Peninsula
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike or Walk the Towpath
The trail is a mix of surfaces, great for cycling or a scenic walk. Explore as far as you like!
🍽️ Grab a Bite in Peninsula
Restaurants are just a short walk away, perfect for refueling after your adventure.
💧 Check River Conditions
If kayaking near Lock 29, confirm river conditions beforehand for a safe paddle.
🍂 Enjoy Fall Foliage
Autumn brings stunning colors to the trail and surrounding areas.
Kayaking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike or Walk the Towpath
The trail is a mix of surfaces, great for cycling or a scenic walk. Explore as far as you like!
🍽️ Grab a Bite in Peninsula
Restaurants are just a short walk away, perfect for refueling after your adventure.
💧 Check River Conditions
If kayaking near Lock 29, confirm river conditions beforehand for a safe paddle.
🍂 Enjoy Fall Foliage
Autumn brings stunning colors to the trail and surrounding areas.
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early or late in the day during summer to avoid the peak heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lock 29 Trailhead for its convenient access to the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and the historic Lock 29. The proximity to Peninsula's restaurants is a major plus. While the trail surface is generally good, some note its mixed nature. It's a popular spot for biking and walking, offering beautiful views year-round.
"This is a great place to start a hike.The trails are well maintained and informative. Peninsula and the Cuyahoga River are very scenic."
RJD
"A nice area to access the Ohio-Erie canal trail. The parking lot is close to the restaurants in Peninsula."
William Williams
"Nice spot right on the river, with one picnic table. Easy walk to the lock, you can walk as far as you want on the trail."
Kaja SWIEB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lock 29 Trailhead is located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, accessible by car. Parking is available at the trailhead. It's a popular starting point for exploring the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
Yes, it's a well-marked trailhead. If you're using GPS, search for 'Lock 29 Trailhead' or 'Peninsula, Ohio'.
Public transport options are limited in this area of the national park. Driving is the most common way to reach the trailhead.
There is a parking lot available at the trailhead. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
The parking lot is generally suitable for most vehicles, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of space during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Lock 29 Trailhead and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is free. Cuyahoga Valley National Park does not charge an entrance fee.
The trailhead and the park are generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no specific closing times for the trail access itself.
The trails, including the Towpath Trail, are free to use. You can enjoy hiking and biking without any admission charges.
Yes, the trailhead and trails are accessible year-round. However, conditions can vary with weather, especially in winter.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the few national parks that does not charge an entrance fee, making access to places like Lock 29 free.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk or bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, visit the historic Lock 29 with its informative boards, and enjoy the river scenery. It's also a gateway to the town of Peninsula.
The Towpath Trail here is a mix of blacktop and hard-packed sand/gravel, making it suitable for various activities.
Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to check the park's official website or plan accordingly.
Absolutely! The canal lock, river views, and surrounding nature offer great photographic opportunities, especially during fall foliage.
Yes, the Cuyahoga River is accessible from near Lock 29 for kayaking. Paddlers often put in here and take out further downstream.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the town of Peninsula is right next to the trailhead and offers several restaurants and cafes for dining.
Peninsula has a variety of options, from casual eateries to pubs, providing a good selection for visitors.
There is at least one picnic table available near the lock, making it a nice spot for a simple outdoor meal.
Typically, there are no food vendors directly at the trailhead. Your best bet is to visit the nearby town of Peninsula.
You can find snacks and drinks in the town of Peninsula, which is a short walk from the trailhead.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic Lock 29 itself, the adjacent river, and the scenic Towpath Trail offer excellent photo opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the area.
The well-preserved canal lock and the surrounding natural landscape, especially with fall colors, are prime subjects.
Yes, the area is home to various wildlife. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their natural habitat.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens if you hope to capture wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye on the river if you're near the water's edge, but the main trail and lock area are safe for exploration. The proximity to Peninsula also means easy access to restrooms and dining options if needed, making it a convenient outing for families looking for outdoor fun without too much hassle.
🚴 Cyclists and Bikers
Be aware of the trail's mixed surface; while generally good, some sections might be softer or bumpier. It's advisable to use a bike suitable for varied terrain. The easy access to Peninsula also means you can easily stop for a break or a meal mid-ride.
🚶 Hikers and Walkers
Consider walking towards Peninsula for a change of scenery and to explore the town's amenities. The trail is accessible year-round, though winter conditions might require appropriate footwear. It's a great option for a relaxed day out in nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
Starting from Lock 29, you can head north towards Boston Mill Visitor Center or south towards other points of interest within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The trail is generally well-maintained and provides a relatively flat and accessible experience for most users. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the park's landscape and discover hidden historical markers and natural features along the way.
The History and Significance of Lock 29
Visiting Lock 29 allows you to visualize the bustling activity that once characterized this area. It’s a great spot for a short, educational walk from the trailhead, providing context for the surrounding landscape and the development of the region. The lock stands as a testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering and is a popular point of interest for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Kayaking and River Access
It's crucial to check current river conditions, water levels, and any potential hazards before embarking on a kayaking trip. While the river can be a rewarding experience, it's important to be prepared and aware of the water's flow and any navigational challenges. The experience can be particularly enjoyable during warmer months, offering a refreshing way to explore the park.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit