Commentary on the B & O Trail
I rode the B&O trail for the second time this year, most recently starting from the Southern terminus in Butler. I usually ride from Millsboro Rd parking lot in Mansfield, but it was time for a change. The first time many trees were flowering, so it was visually a beautiful ride. This second time it was a pleasant day in the low 60s and partly sunny.
This is always a nice trail to ride, it is well cared for, and the asphalt is in good condition. Asphalt always cracks, it seems inherent to the material, cracks were minimal, no pot holes, Plus, the trail is usually pretty clean, minimal debris and litter on the trail.
The only detracting element in riding this trail is sometimes crossing the busy roads can be difficult. Routes 97 and 42 can be quite heavy with traffic.
Butler has a nice rest stop, restrooms, water, and picnic tables. There is also a gas station/convenience store adjacent to the rest stop, plus there is a restaurant nearby. There is plenty of parking at the rest stop, and near the restaurant.
Traveling north to Bellville, near the 5-mile marker, taking care in crossing route 13, there is a very nice rest stop with clean restrooms, water, and covered picnic tables. There are a variety of stores nearby easily within walking distance. It is quite a nice spot.
Continuing north on the trail to Lexington, about 11.2 miles in from Butler, there is a nice restroom stop near the ball field, plus a fairly large parking lot. Water is available here also. There are stores nearby and a bicycle shop directly off the trail.
This Southern section of the trail is nicely rural with the trail traversing mostly through woods and farm fields.
As you continue north, you come to Deer Park where restrooms are available, and plenty of parking. Soon you will pass Home Road Marsh on the east side of the trail. Just a bit north of the Marsh you will find parking at Millsboro road, about 16.2 miles from Butler. There are no other facilities at this location.
The Northern trail terminus is at North Lake Park in Mansfield for a total one-way distance of 18.3 miles. This is a trail well worth visiting. Since it is a nice trail and relatively close to my residence, I usually ride this trail 5-10 times per year.
http://www.angelfire.com/oh5/railstotrails/richland_trail.html
 
See photos from all the trail rides here. | 
