The Rivers, Trails & Ales Festival (RTA Fest) is a grassroots outdoor enthusiast event held annually in Marietta, Ohio, nestled in the Appalachian foothills. The 2025 festival is scheduled for August 7–10, offering a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, local culture, and community spirit.

🌊 Rivers: Paddle & Raft Events

Marietta, situated at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, serves as a prime location for water-based activities. Participants can engage in various events, including:

• Mighty Muskingum River Raft Race: A unique race featuring homemade, non-motorized rafts navigating the Muskingum River, culminating near the Harmar Bridge.

• Glow-in-the-Dark Paddle: An evening event where paddlers adorn their vessels with LED lights or glow sticks, creating a luminous spectacle on the water.

Kayak rentals are available through the Marietta Adventure Company for those without their own equipment.

🚴 Trails: Cycling & Hiking Adventures

The festival showcases Marietta’s extensive trail systems, offering activities for all skill levels:

• Mountain Biking: Explore over 30 miles of single-track trails in the Marietta City Trail System, with additional routes in nearby Wayne National Forest and Mountwood Park.

• Road Cycling: Scenic group rides through Washington County’s rolling landscapes, suitable for various experience levels.

• Trail Running & Hiking: Guided runs and hikes, including excursions to Broughton’s Nature and Wildlife Education Area.

• Tortoise & Hare World Championship: A fun, timed race where participants aim to finish with minimal time variance, embracing the event’s playful spirit.

🍺 Ales: Local Brews & Entertainment

The festival’s beer component has grown significantly, featuring:

• Beer Festival: Held on Saturday, August 9, at East Muskingum Park, offering a selection of Ohio-brewed ales from local breweries.

• Food Trucks & Live Music: Enjoy diverse cuisines from local food trucks and live performances by regional bands, enhancing the festival atmosphere.

• VIP & General Admission Tickets: VIP tickets provide early access, exclusive glassware, and additional drink tokens, while general admission offers standard access and a souvenir cup.

🎉 Family-Friendly & Community-Centered

RTA Fest is designed to be inclusive, with activities catering to all ages and abilities:

• Gnome Hiking Event: A whimsical hike for children, encouraging exploration and imagination.

• Buckley Island Exploration: A paddle and hike event exploring the historic Buckley Island, once a crossing on the Underground Railroad.

The festival is free to attend, with certain events requiring tickets. Proceeds support local initiatives like Marietta Main Street and the Marietta City Trail Fund.

For the most current information on events, schedules, and ticketing for the 2025 festival, visit the official website: Rivers, Trails & Ales Festival.