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 scenic 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.
CA&C Visitor Center
Explore our Visitor Center and learn more about things to see & do, eat & drink, and stay in Knox County!
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 at the confluence of Downtown Mount Vernon, 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. If you find our lobby closed in the afternoon, that means we’re away at a meeting or at lunch; the west doors remained unlocked during business hours to accommodate bathroom users.
There are public restrooms located at the CA&C Visitor Center (501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050, 40.388467, -82.486485 ). Restrooms are open Monday through Friday, 9AM-5PM.
Danville Trailhead Parking lot, East Branch Jelloway Creek, Danville, OH 43014
Howard Rotary Park, on trail. Howard, OH 43028 40.406842, -82.326842
Ariel-Foundation Park (Seasonal)
Mount Vernon Thayer Trailhead, on route south of Mount Vernon at Thayer Rd.
Centerburg Memorial Park, in park, along trail 40.310115, -82.692205
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.
Interested in a super scenic route? Knox County sits along the Great American Rail Trail! The preferred route of the Great American Rail-Trail connects 150+ existing rail-trails across state lines, greenways and other multiuse paths spanning more than 3,700 miles. These trails are hosting the Great American through their communities, making possible this grand vision of a nation connected by trails. And with more than 55% of the route already on the ground, Knox County is thrilled to be a part of this national initiative.
