What was the Ohio & Erie Canal — and how does it still shape the way we experience Northeast Ohio today?
In this episode of Legends of the Land, we explore The Legend of Ohio’s Canal and uncover the history behind the Towpath Trail — one of the region’s most popular outdoor destinations that once served a very different purpose.
In this episode:
- What does “towpath” actually mean — and how did it work?
- Why was the Ohio & Erie Canal so important to the growth of Cleveland and Ohio?
- How did a 19th-century transportation route become today’s Towpath Trail?
Host Lexi Robinson and co-host John Luteran are joined by Canalway Partners Executive Director Mera Cardenas to explore how this historic corridor powered commerce in the 1800s, connected communities across the state and ultimately evolved into a modern-day trail for biking, walking and exploring.
From mule-drawn canal boats to one of Northeast Ohio’s favorite outdoor escapes, this episode reveals how the past and present are connected along every mile of the Towpath. You’ll also hear how preservation efforts transformed aging infrastructure into a vibrant, accessible experience that continues to shape the region today.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, outdoor adventurer or first-time visitor, this episode offers a deeper understanding of the landscape beneath your feet.
Listen now to discover the legend behind the canal — and experience the Towpath in a whole new way.
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