Though my strong affinity for Oberlin has been repeatedly expressed, another commonly recurring theme in my blogs seems to be small escapes that make the Oberlin world feel a little bit bigger. Today marks a new milestone in this theme, with the seemingly boundless North Coast Inland Trail spanning 65 miles from Elyria to Toledo.
The NCIT is a paved asphalt path, accessible only to bikers, walkers, skaters (and even cross-country skiers in the winter!). Spanning the countryside with endless views of farmlands and fields, the NCIT is the best way to access the wide variety of Ohio’s natural beauty. Along the way are picnic shelters, bike repair kits, and access to plenty of small towns, each with their own unique charm. As a New Yorker, I’ve never felt more American than I have biking through fields and past farmhouses, admiring the simple yet breathtaking scenery. Recently, I’ve been soaking in the green landscape, decorated with flowers and the occasional wandering chicken or chipmunk. However, what I’m really excited for is the fall to come. When fall hits and the Oberlin campus is covered in shades of orange, yellow, and red foliage, that feels like magic; I can’t even contain my excitement for how breathtaking the draping trees and forests lining the bike path will be.
The trail also offers access to a wide-ranging assortment of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking/canoing, boating, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, snowshoeing, geocaching, and probably biking if that’s your thing. Approximately 30 minutes from the Oberlin campus (by bike) is the Kipton Reservation, situated within the city of Oberlin itself. This 2.2-mile loop is a gentle trail commonly used for horseback riding and hiking, offering a perfect low-effort yet fulfilling adventure.
The portion of the NCIT that runs through Oberlin specifically is the Don J. Pease Memorial Bike Trail, which is a beautiful piece of serenity in and of itself. Right past the arb, this portion of the trail is under five minutes from campus by bike and ten minutes on foot. Since discovering the trail alongside the exciting gift of my new bike, you can usually spot me on the trail before classes, before dinner, and sometimes even both.
