Recreation Along The Canal

Recreation Along The Canal. Historic and Preasant Uses. , Uses along the canal have changed dramatically over time. The main use of the canal was the transporting of commerce. However, the canal ran through many towns and places where populations needed recreation and an outlet from everyday life. This fact still rings true today. , Fishing was a big recreation activity as well to provide a meal for families during the earlier days of the canal. Today, there are still annual fishing derbies held in many of the communities that border the canal. These are popular and bring awareness to the historical significance of the canal in northwest and west central Ohio., In the past, other recreation uses consisted of trapping, hunting, ice skating, hockey, swimming and sleigh rides along the towpath. While current land management still provide some of these same activities, additional activities consist of hiking, biking, jogging and wildlife watching. All these activities are important economic drivers for communities that are situated along the canal. So, take a hike and get out and enjoy the trail!, Present Day Recreation Uses Along The Canal Towpath Trail , Birding along the canal has become a popular pastime in recent years., Historic Recreation Uses Along The Canal , Ducks, a common theme along the canal today and in 1912., A common sight along the towpath, a family takes a horse drawn sleigh ride along the canal., You can enjoy the towpath at all times of the year, as evident by this cross country skier. , Backpacking along the trail is a great way to experience the Buckeye Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail.