Muskingum River Locks Historical Navigation Circuit

Trace the Muskingum River’s 19th-century navigation system via service roads connecting Locks 1 through 10, built between 1836-1841 to float coal and timber to the Ohio River. The 32-mile route follows elevated towpaths and lock tender roads that ford tributary creeks and climb around flood-damaged sections. Lock 7 near Taylorsville presents the toughest challenge with a steep rocky approach and narrow bridge crossing over the lock chamber itself.

Stock vehicles handle most sections, though high clearance helps with creek crossings and eroded towpath sections during wet periods. Best traveled April through October when lock parks are accessible. No permits needed, but some sections cross private land — stick to marked routes. Multiple camping options at state parks along the route. Experience Ohio’s early industrial ambitions while following one of America’s oldest slack-water navigation systems still partially intact.