Is Ohio State Route 170 the Best Technical Drive in the Rust Belt?
Ohio State Route 170 (SR 170) is a north-south highway that offers a surprising technical escape through the rolling terrain of eastern Ohio. Specifically, the segment from Calcutta to Poland is a favorite for those seeking a rhythmic driving experience. Unlike the flat, grid-like roads common in the Midwest, this route follows the natural contours of the Little Beaver Creek valley, providing a series of sweepers and elevation changes that demand constant throttle adjustment. It is one of the most scenic drives in the USA.
| Road Facts: Ohio Route 170 | |
|---|---|
| Location | Columbiana and Mahoning Counties, Ohio |
| Coordinates | 40.7850° N, 80.5742° W (Midpoint) |
| Length | ~20 miles (Calcutta to Poland section) |
| Terrain | Glaciated plateau with steep river valleys |
Where is Ohio Route 170 located?
Situated in the far eastern edge of Ohio, near the border with Pennsylvania, this stretch of SR 170 connects the Ohio River basin to the glaciated plateaus of the north. The road starts in Calcutta (Columbiana County) and travels north into the historic village of Poland (Mahoning County). It carves through the Appalachian Plateau, a region characterized by deep-cut stream valleys and high ridges, which is why the road maintains such a dynamic vertical profile compared to the rest of the state.
What makes driving Ohio Route 170 a unique experience?
The allure of SR 170 lies in its "flow." The road transitions from the commercial hub of Calcutta into a deeply forested, undulating landscape. For motorcyclists, the section near Beaver Creek State Park is the technical highlight. Here, the road narrows and the frequency of curves increases as it navigates the steep hillsides surrounding the creek.
What are the main hazards on Ohio Route 170?
- Variable Surface Grip: As the road passes through heavily shaded forest sections, the asphalt can remain damp long after rain, creating unpredictable traction levels in the tighter bends.
- Agricultural & Wildlife Hazards: Being a rural corridor, drivers must stay alert for slow-moving farm machinery and high-mass wildlife, particularly white-tailed deer, which are extremely active during dawn and dusk.
- Blind Crests: The rolling nature of the "Rust Belt" hills means several sections feature blind crests followed immediately by lateral shifts, requiring advanced lane positioning.
When is the best time to drive Ohio Route 170?
Route 170 is at its most spectacular—and most challenging—during the autumn months. The heavy leaf fall can create slippery conditions on the road surface, adding a layer of technical difficulty to the numerous curves. It is recommended to avoid this route during peak winter months, as the shaded valley sections are prone to "black ice" that persists due to the lack of direct sunlight.