FEATURED STORY FROM THE Best of BG – 2013 ISSUE
Slippery Elm Trail
Roams the Countryside
One of the best biking, running and inline skating facilities in the area starts (or ends) right here in Bowling Green. The Slippery Elm Trail extends from North Baltimore due north to Bowling Green, running a length of 13.9 miles. A sign marks the start of the North Baltimore portion of the trail on East Broadway Street just east of Main Street, with all the essentials: a parking lot, restrooms and water.
The trail makes a few street crossings before heading out of North Baltimore to open countryside. The trail curves along a farmer’s fence, making gradual turns before straightening and moving toward the village of Rudolph. After passing through Rudolph, the trail enters a section of woods and taller trees before again moving through open fields. It passes underneath U.S. Rt. 6 before entering the southwest corner of Bowling Green, where the trail ends (or starts). Parking is also available on Gypsy Lane Road and Portage Road.
Much of the trail is tree-lined, but allows generous views of the crop fields and open country that surround the bikeway. There are small signs posted along the trail that provide users with information on this former railway route and the surrounding area. The trail is well-maintained and has a smooth asphalt surface.