COLUMBUS – The state of Ohio has announced the release of a new mobile and web-based resource to help outdoor enthusiasts plan for and explore thousands of trail miles crisscrossing the Buckeye State.
The new DETOUR trails app, developed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), is Ohio’s new go-to source for authoritative trail information for both to beginner and expert-trail users. Trails can be searched for by region, level of difficulty, activity, type, and distance.
The app offers featured routes, provides driving directions to trailheads, and includes information for trail managers.
“Ohio is a great place for families to live, work, learn, and play,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “This new app will help bring friends and families together by connecting them to Ohio’s abundant trail system and natural outdoor beauty.”
The DETOUR trail inventory will continue to grow; Ohio trail managers wishing to have their trails included in the app should contact ODNR at trails@ohio.gov.
“With the DETOUR app, it’s like having a personal trails guide in your pocket,” said ONDR Director Mary Mertz. “The app highlights nearby trail systems and promotes lesser-known trail gems found throughout the state.”
Trail routes included in this first public release of DETOUR include those managed by ODNR as well as trail routes managed by many others, including: City of Columbus, Cleveland Metroparks, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Great Parks of Hamilton County, Lake Metroparks, Medina County Park District, MetroParks of Butler County, Wayne National Forest, Metroparks Toledo, Central Ohio Greenways, and Summit Metro Parks.
“Over the past year, we’ve seen trail use increase exponentially on ODNR-managed trails and other recreational trails across the state, making this the perfect time to launch the new DETOUR app,” said Glen Cobb, Chief of Ohio State Parks & Watercraft.
To access the web app, visit DETOURtrails.ohiodnr.gov. For mobile devices, the app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for free.
Trail enthusiasts are encouraged to set up a user profile to take full advantage of DETOUR. This feature allows you to record trips, upload photos, and provide feedback on your trail experience. You also can track your progress along the trail, “favorite” trail routes, and report problems such as downed trees or trail erosion issues.
To learn more about creating a DETOUR user profile and review other frequently asked questions, click here.
The state’s extensive network of recreational trails includes the Ohio to Erie Trail, which spans more than 326 miles from Cincinnati to Cleveland and the looping 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail that reaches into every corner of Ohio.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
What features can users expect with the app?
Basemap Selections
Search (By trail name, location)
Filter (By Primary Trail Type, Activity Type, Difficulty, Trail Length, and Suitability)
Trail Attributes (Length, Difficulty, Elevation, Description, etc.)
Featured Routes
Driving Directions to a Trailhead
User Profiles
Record Your Trip
Track your progress along the trail
Trip History
Favorite Trails
Upload Photos
Trip Reports
Submit Feedback
Report a Trail Problem
How can I get trails near me added to DETOUR?
Reach out to the land manager of the recreational land or area and ask them to contact us at trails@ohio.gov.
Note: Adding new recreational trails to DETOUR cannot happen overnight. But we will work with the land manager to help get their trails mapped and inventoried. In the end, it’s up to the local land manager whether or not to include trails in DETOUR.
What are the trail difficulty ratings?
Easiest – Trail is accessible by wheelchair or stroller.
Easy – A trail accessible by most users that do not depend on mobility devices.
More Difficult – A trail requiring some physical exertion to traverse.
Very Difficult – A trail that requires considerable physical exertion to traverse.
Extremely Difficult – The most difficult trails in the state that require extreme physical exertion or technical skill to traverse.
Not Assessed – The difficultly of the trail has not been assessed.
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