Trail Features
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Locomotive and Caboose
Nestled along the Kokosing Gap Trail near Gambier, walkers and cyclists will discover a beautifully restored 1940 ALCO 0-6-0 steam locomotive, its tender, a flatcar, and a charming 1924 Chesapeake & Ohio caboose (#90776).
Kokosing River
Flowing gently beside much of the Kokosing Gap Trail, the Kokosing River is not only a scenic backdrop but also a vital piece of local natural history. The river runs for over 57 miles through east-central Ohio, winding past Mount Vernon, Gambier, Howard, and Danville.
Communities
From the Mount Vernon Avenue access point, the trail runs East to West from Mount Vernon through Danville and runs through Gambier and Howard. Restaurants, shops, and more can be found just a short distance from the trail.
Kenyon College
Founded in 1824, Kenyon College is a nationally recognized liberal arts college located in nearby Gambier, Ohio. Known for its beautiful historic campus, Gothic architecture, and strong academic tradition, Kenyon offers a close-knit learning environment and a vibrant arts and literary culture. The college’s scenic setting along the Kokosing River and Kokosing Gap Trail makes it a landmark destination for students, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, and its presence adds to the cultural richness and character of the surrounding community.
Danville
Perched in Knox County, Danville, Ohio is a small village of around 1,100 people and is proudly known as the “Gateway to Amish Country.” Located at the eastern terminus of the Kokosing Gap Trail, Danville welcomes trail users with a trailhead, picnic shelter, water, and restroom facilities.
Rotary Park Playground
Along the Kokosing Gap Trail in the Village of Howard, Rotary Park offers a welcoming spot for families and trail-goers to pause and play. Built through the efforts of the Rotary Club, the park features a playground, beautifully landscaped grounds, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, making it a perfect rest stop for children and adults alike.
Bridges
Spanning the serene Kokosing Valley, the bridges along the Kokosing Gap Trail are more than just functional — they’re beautiful reminders of the trail’s railroad heritage. Two historic railroad trestle bridges, each more than 250 feet long, gracefully cross the Kokosing River, offering spectacular views of the forested banks and river below.
Brown Family Environmental Center
The Brown Family Environmental Center (BFEC), part of Kenyon College, is a 700-acre nature preserve nestled inside the Kokosing River Valley. With over 10 miles of trails, visitors can wander through forest, prairie, and wetland habitats, relax in a wildlife garden filled with native blooms, or quietly observe butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
Kenyon College Lowry Center
The Lowry Center, originally built in 2006 and formerly known as the Kenyon Athletic Center, is Kenyon College’s stunning hub for recreation, athletics, and student life. Designed by architect Graham Gund, the building features soaring glass walls and skylights that flood the interior with natural light. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of facilities: a 200-meter indoor track, an Olympic-size pool, basketball and volleyball arena, squash and racquetball courts, a 12,000 sq ft Patterson Fitness Center, multipurpose rooms for dance and fitness classes, and even a 120-seat theater for film screenings and team meetings.