The Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail and its canal partners are excited to announce the long-awaited Ohio & Erie Canal “Southern Descent” Heritage Trail. This new trail is made possible in part by Ohio Humanities and is the result of an extraordinarily, successful multi-year collaboration of communities in six South Central Ohio counties to recognize, document, preserve and celebrate their canal heritage. Many partners in this effort had done so individually for many years, but their unified effort began in 2019 with the creation of the Ohio & Erie Canal Southern Descent National Register Historic District. This district includes Baltimore & Lockville (Fairfield Co.), Groveport & Lockbourne (Franklin County), Circleville (Pickaway Co.), Rushtown & West Portsmouth (Scioto Co.).

Celebrate Ohio & Erie Canal “Southern Descent” Heritage Trail Kickoff Events for each of the designated canal lock areas to the public. Come enjoy fun, food, entertainment, and trail walks. Meet special guests & canal experts to learn about the rich history of Ohio’s canals, particularly the “southern descent.”