Brewed on the Bikeway
A scenic bike path through Nelsonville and Athens allows visitors to take in the sights and local beer scene on two wheels. We spoke with Paige Alost, Executive Director of Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, about the development of the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway in Athens County and it's connection to businesses throughout the area, including thriving local breweries. Click here for more information about Brewed on the Bikeway and recommended side trips, eateries and bike rental information. View the trail map here.
Where did the idea or inspiration for Brewed on the Bikeway come from?
Last fall the City of Athens opened a new spur on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway which includes a beautiful bridge over the Hocking River. This spur provided the final link in offering bikepath access to all of our breweries! While there are many bike and brew trails in the Midwest, this is one of the only tours that allows riders to remain on the bikeway without having to ride city streets or busy roads. This makes it perfect for both experienced and novice bike riders.
What kind of businesses and breweries does the bike path connect?
The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway accesses more than just the breweries. Brewed on the Bikeway includes "side trips", taking riders past some of our favorite places including Miller's Chicken, the West End Cider House, Jackie O's Public Haus, the Rocky Outdoor Gear Store, and both the Ohio University and Hocking College campuses.
Do you have to bring your own bike?
You can bring your own bike or rent one when you get to Athens or Nelsonville. Black Diamond Bikes offers rentals at the Rocky Outdoor Gear Store and at their bike shop at Eclipse Company Town, a restored coal mining village located on the bikeway just off of US Rt. 33. Athens Bicycle Shop also offers rentals and they are located just 3 blocks off the bikeway in Athens.
How long is the path and what are some recommended routes?
The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is about 21 miles long, and includes two spurs over the Hocking River that take riders to Little Fish Brewing Company and Devil's Kettle Brewers. The Brewed on the Bikeway map includes suggested trail heads to begin your ride, including the Rocky Outdoor Gear Store in Nelsonville at the top of the bikeway, Eclipse Company Town located just off US Rt. 33 before Athens, and the Athens Community Center located on E. State Street in Athens. All three locations include public facilities, great parking and direct access to the bikeway.
Do you see potential for expansion along the path in future?
There are plans to extend the bikeway in the works now. Expansion to the east following US Rt. 50 will begin in the fall of this year. An extension joining the bikeway to the Village of Chauncey and a proposed mountain biking trail at the Wayne National Forest is also planned.
Are there any other resources riders or potential riders should be aware of?
Whether you bring your own bike or rent one when you arrive, Athens and Nelsonville are great places for bikeriding - even off the path! Bike lanes and easy streets for riding are abundant here. Nelsonville's historic Public Square is just a two-block ride from the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway and offers great places to eat and shop, plus some beautiful coal-era houses to see. Nelsonville also offers several beautiful bed and breakfasts for overnight accommodations, plus easy access to the Hocking Hill Region. In Athens, most of the hotels offer easy access to the bikeway. And while it's an uphill ride, a trip to Athens should always include some time on Court Street - the region's best destination for local foods and fun shopping.
Below, find shots from some of our favorite and most recent trips to stops along the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway including Miller's Chicken, West End Cider House, Little Fish Brewing Co. and Cajun Clucker food truck.
