The Kokosing Gap Trail is Knox County's prime biking trail. The trail stretches for 13.5 miles, from Mount Vernon to Danville, and was converted from an old Pennsylvania Railroad line. The scenic trail passes through beautiful Knox County landscapes. Most of the trail is covered in the cool shade of the woods that line it on either side. At two different points, the trail crosses over the Kokosing River via steel-freamed railroad bridges. Each bridge has a pull-off to allow trail goers a place to relax and enjoy the scenery that the Kokosing River has to offer.
When the trail reaches scenic Gambier, trail-goers get a view of the Kenyon College campus. A large rest area is set up here, with an old steam engine, coal car, and caboose set on rail track right next to the bike path. This attraction is a reminder of the trail's history and its importance to the trade of the region. It is also an excellent photo op, and a favorite among children who use the trail.
After leaving Gambier, the trail takes riders to Howard, the location of the beautiful Apple Valley resort. Here, trail goers get another chance to stop for restrooms and water. There is also a small playground here for the children, and a parking lot for easy access to the trail. Climbing a staircase away from the trail also brings visitors into Howard itself where they can enjoy some small town shop hopping.
The trail continues on from Howard, passing through a stone archway underneath U.S. route 36, and the scenery changes from dense woodland to open farmland and gently rolling hills as riders continue on towards Danville. The 13.5 mile trail reaches its end in Danville, but anyone wishing to continue their journey can bike just a couple of blocks through town to get on the Mohican Valley Trail, which was opened in 1999.
The Kokosing Gap Trail is a beautiful place to take the family for a day of fun and exercise. The trail is also a favorite of college students as it passes right by Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and Kenyon College in Gambier. The Trail has something for everyone, whether you enjoy walking, skating, biking, or just nature watching, you will certainly enjoy a beautiful day out on the Kokosing Gap Trail in historic Knox County.