Hundreds of cyclists and will flock to Chillicothe this weekend as troopers ask drivers to stay vigilant

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Ross County is gearing up for an influx of bicyclists this weekend as the Annual Tour of the Scioto River Valley (TOSRV) bicycle tour is set to unfold. The two-day event, kicking off on Saturday, and concluding on Sunday, September 24, will see approximately 400 bicyclists embarking on an adventurous journey from Canal Winchester to Portsmouth and back.

The tour will commence at 6 A.M. on Saturday from Canal Winchester, with bicyclists anticipated to complete the day’s ride in about 12 hours. The route will lead them through various roads including Gender Road, Canal Winchester South Road, Oregon Road, and onto London-Lancaster Road. They will cross into Pickaway County, venture south through Circleville, onto US 22, then to SR 104 and into the heart of Ross County.

A midday reprieve awaits the riders at Yoctangee Park in Chillicothe, where lunch and entertainment have been arranged. Post-refreshment, the bicyclists will journey through downtown Chillicothe to Cooks Hill Road. The following stretch of the ride will encompass Cooks Hill Road to State Route 104, Three Locks Road, and then Higby Road, leading the bicyclists out of Ross County and towards Pike County. The final leg on Saturday will carry them through various routes, concluding in Portsmouth.

For the return trip on Sunday, bicyclists will trace their routes back to Canal Winchester, retracing the paths carved out the day before. The Ohio State Highway Patrol has collaborated with the tour organizers to ensure the safety of both the participants and the local motoring public during this event. They urge local residents to remain alert for bicyclists and respect their right to share the roadway.

Troopers will be on duty, coordinating with the event organizers to ensure a safe passage for all involved. For any emergencies or issues arising during the event, locals are encouraged to contact the Jackson Post at 740-414-7479.

The TOSRV is a celebrated tradition encouraging bicyclist camaraderie, fostering a love for the outdoors, and allowing participants to experience the picturesque landscapes of Ross County and its neighboring regions.