Great Guernsey Trail – Explore, Paddle and Discover
The Great Guernsey Trail is a beloved rails to trails recreational path in Guernsey County that just keeps getting better. With new additions like a self-serve kayak rental kiosk, scenic extensions like Coal Ridge and Boyd’s Bottom Open Space and Trails, and plans for a trailhead in downtown Cambridge, this trail offers a rich outdoor experience for all ages.
🚴 Trail Overview
The paved trail stretches over 10 miles (20 miles round trip) from East Cambridge to Lore City. It’s perfect for:
- Walking, jogging and cycling
- Inline skating and strollers
- Birdwatching and photography
- Designated as a National Recreation Trail (NRT) by the U.S. Department of Interior
Flat and accessible, the trail is maintained year-round and welcomes both locals and visitors looking for a quiet, scenic outdoor escape.
Extension Through Downtown Cambridge
The Great Guernsey Trail has been extended three miles into historic Downtown Cambridge, creating a convenient connection between the heart of downtown and the existing Great Guernsey Trail. The expansion includes:
- A new downtown trailhead with signage, parking and convenient access to downtown
- A new three-mile connection linking the existing Great Guernsey Trail with historic Downtown Cambridge
This extension improves connectivity, encourages outdoor recreation and active transportation, and gives trail users easy access to downtown Cambridge’s shops, restaurants, attractions and local businesses.
🚣 Self-Serve Kayak Rental Kiosk
Now you can explore nearby waterways too! The new self-serve kayak rental kiosk, located at the Village of Lore City end of the trail, offers easy access to kayaking on Leatherwood Creek Water Trail.
- Rentals available via mobile app
- Includes kayak, paddle and life jacket
- Open dawn to dusk
- Beginner-friendly and family-safe
This feature brings water-based adventure right to the trail’s edge.
🌲 Coal Ridge – Nature & Recreation Combined
Coal Ridge Park and Trails is a scenic side trail that provides hiking on unimproved trails
- Shaded walking trails
- Opportunities for fishing and boating
- Great for nature walks and quiet reflection
It’s a short, peaceful detour with a strong sense of place.
🌿 Boyd’s Bottom Open Space and Trails– Family-Friendly Nature Space
Located near Lore City, and directly accessible from the Great Guernsey Trail, is a nature-focused destination for families and schools.
- Unimproved loop trails and meadows
- Great for observing wildlife
It’s the perfect spot to learn, and enjoy nature together.
📍 Trail Access & Hours
- Trailheads: East Cambridge, Lore City, and coming soon – Downtown Cambridge
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Surface: Paved and accessible
- Parking: Available at multiple trail access points
📸 Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re hiking, biking, paddling or simply relaxing, the Great Guernsey Trail has something for everyone. It’s a growing outdoor destination that connects the past, present, and future of Guernsey County.
🧭 Need More Info?
Contact the Guernsey County CDC or visit our Parks & Trails page for updates and trail maps. http://guernseycountycdc.com/