With the first early snow storm out the way, and the looming promise of a winter potentially even more brutal than last year, you’re either gearing up for cold rides, or are settling in for a long winter off the route. Whatever your plans, you can always get your legs pumping in a different way- shopping!

If your family and friends love the Back Roads and Beaches Route as much as they love you, get them geared up with what they really want this year! These local fitness shops are your one-stop shop for everything they need. Shop accessories like headlights and handlebars, smart clothing or quality bikes! And for the cyclist who seems to have it all…give a gift-card so they can pick something out for themselves, or pay for a repair.

Bicycle Bill’s Fitness Center

Bicycle Bill’s Fitness Center : 5523 South Street, Vermilion

Swerve Bike Shop : 23 South Main Street, Oberlin

Molnar Outdoor : 9191 Leavitt Road, Elyria

For the down-right outdoorsy and adventurous, there are so many exciting things in Lorain County to plan for when ground thaws in the spring. But you may not even have to wait that long-the Common Ground Canopy Tours are planning on opening for the week between Christmas and New Years!

Winter on the Common Ground Canopy Tours Photo by Common Ground

Give a gift certificate or make a reservation for thrilling holiday gift options that give an experience to remember!

Common Ground Canopy Tours : 14240 Baird Road, Oberlin

West River Kayak & Canoe : 655 West River Road, Vermilion

Great Lakes Kayaking : 14th and Broadway, Lorain

Lake Erie Paddler : 485 California Avenue, Lorain

Visit our website for a full listing of  locations along the Back Roads and Beaches Route that make for great gifts this holiday season.

Remember, you don’t need to fight the crowds at the mall to find the perfect gifts for adventure. #ItsHere

Not only does fall riding along the Back Roads and Beaches Bike and Multisport Route bring fresh air and beautiful natural scenery, but new manmade art experiences as well! Whether you’re an art enthusiast searching for your new favorite piece, or just cruising by and in the mood for some live music, you’ll find what you’re […]

Yes, I do realize there is only one full day left of summer. But there are many beautiful days still ahead of us in north central Ohio. And as I stood on the beach at Lakeview Park in Lorain this week and watched a paddleboarder in front of the picturesque view of the Lorain lighthouse […]

Summer is in full swing and with it, a calendar of north central Ohio multisport events. Many with the scenic backdrop of Lake Erie. Kick-start your summer with some friendly competition. Read on for event details. Triathlon Information NCN Racing is continuing the Rat Race Series starting this weekend. The Rat Race Series started in […]