Brewed on the Bikeway combines top Athens tourist destinations
By: Clark Wicks
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With more than 20 miles of pavement, weaving along the Hocking River and winding through the picturesque Wayne National Forest, many cycling enthusiasts take advantage of the famous Athens Bike Path that connects the city of Athens to Nelsonville, Ohio.
But what about other tourist destinations in the city of Athens? The college town is also known for its growing local brewery business. While Jackie O’s is easily the most famous local brewer in Athens, the city has worked to make sure every brewery can be more easily accesse. This development prompted the Brewed on the Bikeway promotion by the Athens County Visitor’s Bureau.
John Lefelhocz of Cycle Path Bicycles, said the bureau’s most recent bike path spur from the original trail dumps cyclists right in front of one of the city’s newest breweries.
“Just this year they completed a spur that went from the other side of the river on the Bike Path and connects over to Columbus Rd.,” Lefelhocz said. “You can take that spur, which is less than a mile long, over a nice scenic bridge and it will drop you off virtually adjacent to Devil’s Kettle.”
With to the addition of this spur, the breweries Devil’s Kettle, West End Cider House, Jackie O’s and Little Fish Breweries can all be accessed via the Athens Bike Path.
Despite the cold temperature and cycling out of season, Lefelhocz said business has improved since Brewed on the Bikeway began.
“We’ve seen customers come in that say ‘I’m here for Brew Week and my bike needs worked on’ or ‘I forgot this at home, can I get this accessory?'” Lefelhocz said. “We don’t do rentals but there are several places that do and they’ve experienced an uptick as well.”