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CA&C Visitor Center
Explore our Visitor Center and learn more about things to see & do, eat & drink, and stay in Knox County!
Sample Itineraries
It's about the journey, and the destination.
You've browsed our site, received your FREE visitor guide, booked your stay, made a packing list; now it's time to start your trek.
Distance from Major Cities:
Columbus, OH - 1HR
Cleveland, OH - 1 HR & 45 MINS
Cincinnati, OH - 2HRS & 43 MINS
Pittsburgh, PA - 3 HRS
Indianapolis, IN - 3 HRS & 38 MINS
Louisville, KY - 4 HRS & 19 MINS
Located in the heart of Ohio, Knox County is centrally located to major cities, highways and byways. If you enjoy the sonic route, we suggest following Ohio's Amish Scenic Byway (OH-62). If you need a quicker trip on the interstate, Knox County is just an hour or less from three major highways. Expect less congestion and more open spaces when you get behind the wheel here, you may just be inspired to take the long way.
When it comes to transportation, the sky's the limit. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, there are several airport options nearby offering an easy commute:
John Glen International (CMH), Columbus, Ohio
Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), Columbus, Ohio
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), Cleveland, Ohio
Dayton International Airport (DAY), Dayton, Ohio
And, Knox County Regional Airport has expertly trained staff ready to exceed your arrival needs and welcome you with superior service. Our 386-acre airport serves the needs of corporate flights, recreational aircrafts, as well as local factory material shipments.
Knox County is not only centrally located, but in the center of the Ohio to Erie Trail. This 326-mile multi-use trail, from Cincinnati to Cleveland, calls Knox County its midpoint. Enjoy your time traveling through Knox County on our 35 miles of paved multi-use trails, Heart of Ohio Trail, Mohican Valley Trail and Kokosing Gap Trail.
Knox County Ohio FAQs
Trail-users are encouraged to park at the CA&C Visitor Center (501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050) for the day. The CA&C Visitor Center sits in between both the Heart of Ohio Trail and the Kokosing Gap Trail, so it is a great starting point on any adventure. If trail-users are interested in an overnight parking, please reach out to our staff directly, at [email protected], to coordinate your visit.
The CA&C Visitor Center, back parking lot, is available to transient RV/Campers. We ask that guests please reach out to our staff directly, at [email protected], to coordinate your visit. If you're looking for longer stay, check out our RV/Camping accommodations.
The CA&C Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday, 9AM-5PM.
There are public restrooms located at the CA&C Visitor Center (501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050). Restrooms are open Monday through Friday, 9AM-5PM. Also, most trailheads throughout the county, that have parking, will also have a port-a-potty onsite.
The CA&C Visitor Center has a Bike Repair Station on the east side of our building. If you are in need of a part replacement or need more bike supplies, Y-NOT Cycling is located just two blocks from the trail on South Main Street in Downtown Mount Vernon. Other trail gear can be found at the Animal Station and More Space for Your Place along the Heart of Ohio Trail in Centerburg.
Yes, a portion of The Ohio to Erie Trail (OTET) goes through Knox County. Our entire 35 miles of paved multi-use trail systems are part of the larger 326-mile Ohio to Erie Trail. OTET's scenic 326-mile trail links the Ohio River to Lake Erie, primarily on rail trails and canal paths.
