After eight months and scores of miles, our ultimate hike is finally upon us! Now is your chance to show that you have the skills, endurance, and willpower to rock 20 miles of trail in one day.
This hike consists of two parts. We will hike most of our miles on the Cuyahoga Valley Towpath Trail. For the second portion (and halfway point) of the hike, we will explore parts of Tremont, one of Cleveland’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Our hike will take us through Cleveland’s steel yards, past the house used in the filming of “A Christmas Story,” and in to Lincoln Park, in Tremont. To finish the hike, we’ll walk back along the Towpath to our start point in Valley View.
Be prepared for hiking along paved trail and urban terrain. Most of the Towpath Trail is paved. When hiking on paved trails, comfortable footwear is important, so you may find it easier (and better on your feet) to hike in tennis shoes as opposed to hiking boots. Like the 15-mile hike, this 20-mile hike is an all-day trip, and will take about 10 hours to complete. Please come prepared with a comfortable pack, containing plenty of water, food, rain gear, sunscreen, spare socks, and other essentials. Pack at least two (preferably three) quarts of water, a full lunch, and nutritious, energizing snacks.
The crew is meeting bright and early at Chapman Elementary at 7:00 a.m. Please be prompt! Parents are welcome to drive to the Lock 39 trailhead at Rockside and Canal Roads. For reasons of safety and ability, only experienced hikers who are members of the merit badge and Philmont crews may participate in the 20-mile hike. If you are not driving from Strongsville or are driving separately, please meet us at the Towpath Trailhead on Rockside Road between 7:35 and 7:40 a.m. The Towpath parking lot is about 500 feet west of Canal Road in Valley View.
