Sunday, Check-in at Noon, Racing Begins 1PM
Start Location: Muskingum Boat Ramp @ Indian Acres Park
Finish Line: Harmar Bridge

Back for another year is the area’s only build your own raft race! The event is a great team building exercise, creative summer project, and/or a great way to promote your business/ Organization. The race began in the 70s by a local United States Junior Chamber group and has continued on to become one of the highlight events during RTA Fest. After a brief hiatus, the race was brought back to life in 2024. Grab your team and come race with us! Racers will compete for the coveted Mighty Muskingum River Raft Race Trophy and the top two finishers will receive CASH PRIZES! First place will be awarded $100 and second place will be awarded $50.

Check out www.rtafest.com/rivers for additional details including how to register.

The gnomes are once again hiding at one of their favorite spots - the Ohio River Islands Wildlife Refuge. There are multiple family friendly trail options including a new Wetland Trail with a 200’ boardwalk across part of a pond that just opened this year! There are multiple trail length options ranging from less than a mile to 2 miles. Trail types range from the wetlands trail, paved handicap accessible trail, grass trail near the river, and an upland trail winding through the woods. Along the trail you’re bound to see all kinds of local wildlife and flora. Be sure to keep an eye out for gnomes as well! Once you find the gnomes be sure to return to the start of the trail for some fun kids prizes. The hike is self-guided, but leaders will be on-site to provide information and trail maps. Trails are considered on the easy side but be sure to bring good walking or hiking shoes, water, and bug spray.

Also at this location is the headquarters for the Ohio River Islands Wildlife Refuge. Multiple exhibits are located inside including mussels, local fish, and information about the river and islands the wildlife refuge supports.

Note: Please arrive a few minutes early to check in with hike leaders.

📍3982 Waverly Rd. Williamstown, WV

43 mile route: SR821 to Germantown to Dalzell to Stanleyville and back on SR26 (https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27734851).

Group rides are free, but all riders must register at the festival grounds prior to the start of the ride. Group rides have several ride leaders but are unsupported. Please bring all water, food, and repair items that you may need.

All group rides leave the festival HQ in Marietta Ohio. If you prefer to head out on your own, stop by to pick up a free queue sheet for route directions.

Head out for a trail run on the Marietta City Trails! Meet at the festival HQ to sign up and then head out for a 9:30 a.m. departure. This will be ~ 3-5 mile run supported by our local Marietta Trail Runners group.

Free to participate!

Grab your toddlers for a loop or two around Muskingum Park and HQ. This is the perfect distance for kiddos still on 3-4 wheels (tricycles or bikes with training wheels) or those perfecting their Strider technique. Full loop is .57 miles; take the tots around as many times as they like while staying close to HQ (and snacks and benches).

Our brand-new RTA Warrior Course blends the thrill of a classic ninja obstacle run with the excitement of a mini bicycle challenge. Riders can pedal through winding paths, navigate gentle ramps, and test their balance before hopping off to tackle tunnels, stepping stones, and other ninja‑style obstacles. Kiddos can ride and run at their own pace or race the clock for an extra burst of excitement!

The course is perfect for building confidence, coordination, and big festival‑day smiles. Great for all skill levels—whether your child is a fearless ninja, a budding cyclist, or both. Parents can accompany young adventurers along the course; older kiddos can tackle it solo!

VIEW THIS EVENT ON FACEBOOK

Paddling, hiking and island living right here in the MOV! Join us for our joint Rivers and Trails event as we explore Buckley Island! New for this year the RTA Festival has partnered with Appalachian Understories to provide a historical water and trail tour opportunity to explore the natural and cultural history of the Mid-Ohio Valley while paddling to one of the region’s most mysterious and historically significant islands. Through stories of early America, Appalachian heritage, wildlife, and the Ohio River’s role as a “Gateway to America”, participants will experience the layered history and enduring sense of place that define our region as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. This program is in part funded by the National Endowment of the Humanities as part of the national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Arrive as early as 8:00 AM with a group launch scheduled for 9:00 AM.

“Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these programs do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.”

Come explore the beautiful Broughton Nature Park on a hike led by stewards of the park. While hiking through some of the scenic trails you’ll get the opportunity to learn more about the park which consists of over 20 miles of scenic trails, a disc golf course, picnic areas, scenic areas, and much more! You’ll also get to learn more about the new owners of the park: The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.

Hikes will on average last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Participants are urged to wear comfortable footwear or hiking shoes/boots, carry drinking water, bug spray, and be prepared for the physical challenges posed by hiking on uneven trails and elevation changes.

Note: Please arrive a few minutes early to check in with hike leaders. Meet at the GWB Complex #1 picnic shelter.

An RTA tradition sponsored by the River Valley Mountain Bike Association !

Two-person teams on bicycles face off! One team member travels as fast as possible while the other travels as slow as possible. The "turtle" on each team is restricted to a small area and once started, cannot put their feet on the ground. The "hare" will simultaneously race around a short circle track with obstacles while riding a children's bike!

Teams are eliminated if the Tortoise puts their foot down or leaves the Tortoise box. Time is restricted to a maximum on 3 minutes. If teams make it to 3 minutes than those with the most laps wins!

WORLD championship starts immediately following the bike parade.

Stop by the festival HQ to sign up --- Space is limited!

Trophy goes to the World Champions.

Send the kiddos over to Angela for her "fun, fast, and fabulous face painting!" FREE for kids during the beer fest/adventure expo, we're excited to have Angela's Misfits add some color and sparkle to this year's festival! If you're interested in booking your own event, email angelasmisfits@yahoo.com

The Rivers, Trails, and Ales Festival marks its sixteenth year in 2026. The Ales side of RTA is an ever-growing part of the festival’s overall interest. As this segment continues to grow, we are once again hosting Marietta, OH’s largest beer fest! VIPs have an exclusive hour entering at 3:00pm, General admission enters at 4:00pm.

This year’s beer fest will be open to 500 attendees and lots of great beer! Participants can look forward to beer from the following breweries from around our part of the state (breweries subject to change without notice):

• 77 Brew House

• Black Diamond Brewery & Distillery

• Brewery 33

• Devil’s Kettle

• Dutch Creek Winery & Taphouse

• Guernsey Brewhouse

• Happy Hollow

• Old Bridge

• Rice Family

Check out the RTA Adventure Expo to learn more about local clubs, recreation areas, national forests, community activities, and more!

Meet behind the stage on the river trail! The Family Fun Ride departs from Festival HQ. The ride is a classic out-and-back, approximately 4 miles on the paved double-lane bike path river trail. This ride is suitable for kids on two wheels who can navigate a few small hills along the way. Less experienced riders (toddlers with training wheels, tricycles, or Striders) may be better suited for the Tots and Trikes Mini Trail Ride (starting Friday at 10 AM).

Meet at HQ at 2 PM with your bikes and helmets!

Gnomes have returned to the Broughton Nature Park and you get the opportunity to hike the trail and see if you can find them all! Gnomes will be along the blue trail which follows a creek bed giving participants opportunities for rock jumping, seeing creek wildlife, and the different trees and flora along the trail.

While there, particpants will also have the opportunity to learn more about the new owners of the park: The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District who can share more info about the 20+ miles of trail system, disc golf course, picnic areas, and much more the park has to offer.

Note: The trail is relatively flat but follows a creek bed and can be muddy so participants should plan to wear appropriate foot wear, bug spray, and water.

Please arrive a few minutes early to check in with event leaders at GWB Complex #1 picnic shelter.

Saturday @ 11 AM–2 PM—RTA Warrior Course (near RTA Headquarters)

Saturday @ 3 PM–7 PM at the Adventure Expo

Activities, crafts, and games for the littles! Let the kids take a break from biking and hiking, and head over to the Fun Zone for some low-key games, crafts, and kid-friendly activities. Find us near the RTA Warrior Course during the day, and visit us again at the Adventure Expo from 3 PM–7 PM.

Washington County boasts some of the most scenic road riding in the state! Cruise out and enjoy scenic farms, hilly wooded landscapes, and nicely paved roads.

Group rides are free but all riders must register at the #RTAFest HQ prior to the start of the ride. Group rides have several ride leaders but are unsupported. Please bring all water, food, and repair items that you may need.

All group rides leave the #RTAFest HQ in Marietta Ohio. If you prefer to head out on your own, stop by to pick up a free map and route directions.

Road Rides:

-15 miles mostly flat: River rd to Rainbow rd and back
***616 feet of climbing. Pleasant, easy ride.

-24 miles and hilly: Huck Road/River rd west side loop
***1217 feet of climbing. Huck road is the main set of hills on this route. Other than that it is rolling.

-34 miles and rolling hills: Churchtown/Lowell Hill/River rd loop
***1865 feet of climbing. For a less strenuous start, Pearl street is a possible route change. Talk to ride leader before doing this.

Our brand-new RTA Warrior Course blends the thrill of a classic ninja obstacle run with the excitement of a mini bicycle challenge. Riders can pedal through winding paths, navigate gentle ramps, and test their balance before hopping off to tackle tunnels, stepping stones, and other ninja‑style obstacles. Kiddos can ride and run at their own pace or race the clock for an extra burst of excitement!

The course is perfect for building confidence, coordination, and big festival‑day smiles. Great for all skill levels—whether your child is a fearless ninja, a budding cyclist, or both. Parents can accompany young adventurers along the course; older kiddos can tackle it solo!

VIEW THIS EVENT ON FACEBOOK

The epic gravel ride returns! Come explore our many beautiful back country roads. You never know what you may come across, but you can be guaranteed some of the most amazing views you'll ever see.

Ride will depart at 10:00 a.m. with other MTB rides from the RTA HQ.

Base equipment:
- No tires smaller than 32c.
- Gravel and cyclocross bikes are preferred, but hard tail mountain bikes will also work.
- There will be moderate climbing with one loose and chunky descent (capable of shaking bottles out of their cages).
- Riders are encouraged to bring the normal set of tubes, plugs, CO2s, and other gear that one might need on an unassisted ride.

Head out for a trail run on the Marietta City Trails! Meet at the festival HQ to sign up and then head out for a 9:30 a.m. departure. This will be ~ 3-5 mile run supported by our local Marietta Trail Runners group.

Free to participate!

Local National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) team, River Cities Singletrack Serpents, coaches will conduct a skills clinic based on the NICA "On The Bike 101" training program.

Event will also include helmet adjustment guidelines, bike safety check, and a short ride on the Marietta River Trail.

AGES 10 - 110!

Grab your toddlers for a loop or two around Muskingum Park and HQ. This is the perfect distance for kiddos still on 3-4 wheels (tricycles or bikes with training wheels) or those perfecting their Strider technique. Full loop is .57 miles; take the tots around as many times as they like while staying close to HQ (and snacks and benches).

Join an Ohio River Islands Wildlife Refuge Park Ranger on a guided hike to explore the beautiful trails the refuge has to offer. The refuge is home to many types of birds, wildlife, and flora. And as an extra bonus a new wetlands trail was opened this year that you’ll get to explore which includes a 200’ boardwalk across part of a pond.

After you complete the hike be sure to check out the visitors center that has a mussel tank, local fish exhibits, and other information about the river and islands the wildlife refuge maintains. Trails are considered on the easy side but be sure to bring good walking or hiking shoes, water, and bug spray. Rangers will be available to ask questions.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in as the guided hike will leave the visitors center area at approximately 9AM.

RTA is excited to partner again with B&W GRO & ODNR to provide an opportunity to explore the trail system on Beverly Island located in Beverly, Ohio. Trails are rated mostly easy and relatively flat with a few hills and beautiful views of the Muskingum River. ODNR will be providing a lock demonstration at 10:30 AM along with having some exhibits of furs and skulls of local wildlife. Hikes are self guided but maps will be made available and event leaders will be able to assist with questions. The event is from 9 AM-12 PM but please check in with event leaders prior to starting your adventure on the island! Also, you won’t want to miss out on a history talk with a historian following the lock demo near the event sign in canopy providing some history of the island and surrounding area.

Going on at the same time is the Gnome Adventure Hike on the island where gnomes will be around the island and participants have the opportunity to try and find them all. Feel free to join!

8:00am arrival, 9:00 departure

The Muskingum may be mighty, but her water is not particularly quick. Be ready for a steady paddle throughout the trip. Beer Fest awaits at the end of your journey!

Paddle one of Ohio's largest rivers and experience the thrill of locking thru the only hand operated lock system left in the world.

* Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
* This paddle is unsupported.
* No transportation is provided.

Volunteers will be out paddling on the river, but this paddle is at your own pace. You may paddle in groups or on your own.

This event is a great chance to see the historic Muskingum Lock and Dam System which is the only remaining hand-operated lock system in our country! The Muskingum River Parkway and its 160-year-old navigation system were designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Starting Location: Boat ramp and shelter house on a property with a large mowed field on Muskingum River Road approximately 18 minutes from Festival Headquarters and halfway between the Lowell and Devol's Dam Locks (5010 Muskingum River Rd. Lowell, OH 45744)

Bathrooms located at Devol’s Dam (mile 5) and Indian Acres Boat ramp (mile 9).

In partnership with B&W GRO, Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), & the Beverly Library the Gnomes of the Rivers, Trails, & Ales Festival are returning to Beverly Island giving participants a chance to attempt to find all of the different gnomes along the trails of the island. ODNR will be participating again this year providing a lock demonstration at 10:30 AM.

New for this year ODNR will also have a “Who’s Egg” activity and examples of different furs and skulls of local critters to the island. The Beverly Library will also be on the island reading stories and providing an activity/craft. The library summer reading program will be in full swing and the theme is DINOSAURS! Keep an eye out while on the island! Once you find all the gnomes be sure to return to the registration area for fun kids prizes. Also, you won’t want to miss out on a history talk with a historian following the lock demo near the event sign in canopy providing some history of the island and surrounding area.

Trails are relatively flat with a few hills and considered on the easy side but please be sure to bring good walking or hiking shoes, water, and bug spray. The event is from 9 AM-12 PM (cleanup begins at 12 PM so please come earlier if you want to participate in the gnome hike). Please check in with event leaders when you arrive who can assist with any questions you may have.

Join Natalie for an all-levels yoga class focusing on injury prevention for this weekend of hiking, biking, and paddling! This class will be a fantastic warm up for the weekend. Postures will help to improve flexibility and identify strength imbalances in the low back and leg muscles as well as open up the chest wall and shoulders.

- Please bring your own mat and a beach towel (for the morning dew).
- All RTA Yoga events are FREE

Meet at the gravel lot just off of Mill Creek Road in Marietta. There are a couple of ways to get here so just put 100 Mill Creek Road, Marietta OH 45750 in your GPS.

This is a night ride, meaning BRING LIGHTS! Helmets also required for all rides.

Group rides are free to participate in. All rides are unsupported. Bring your own water, gear, flat repair kit, etc. There will be several ride leaders but the group may become spread out. Check in with the ride leaders before you depart, and if you leave early from the ride, please let someone on the ride know.

Download the MTB Project app for access to the full maps of the Marietta City Trail System.

https://www.mtbproject.com/

*Mountain bike rentals are available from Marietta Adventure Company

Drop-in at Indian Acres Boat Ramp (147 Linwood Avenue)

Grab your friends, kayak, and lights to help us light up the Muskingum!

We will paddle roughly 2 miles to the takeout at Boathouse BBQ in Harmar Village side of the river.

Arrive at the Indian Acres Boat ramp between 8:00PM and 8:30PM for the group launch at 9PM.

NOTE: All kayaks must have a white light that is visible from 360⁰ and PFDs are required.