What is Trail Bologna, and Why We Love It

What is Trail Bologna?

Trail Bologna is a type of smoked ring sausage that hails from the small village of Trail, located in Ohio’s Amish Country. Known for its unique shape, rich smoky flavor, and all-beef content, Trail Bologna has become a beloved staple in Ohio households and a favorite across the Midwest.

Made with coarse-ground, lean beef and seasoned with a traditional spice blend, It is slow-smoked over hardwood, which gives it its signature flavor and deep color. Unlike typical store-bought bologna, Trail Bologna is dense, hearty, and free of fillers—perfect for slicing, snacking, or serving on a charcuterie board.

The History Behind Trail Bologna

The original Trail Bologna was developed in the early 1900s by the Troyer family in Trail, Ohio. Their goal was to create a high-quality, preservative-free sausage that would stand the test of time. And it did—Troyer’s Trail Bologna is still made in Trail to this day, using the same time-honored methods.

Over the decades, the popularity of Trail Bologna has grown well beyond Holmes County. What started as a local specialty has become a sought-after delicacy for those who appreciate traditional meat craftsmanship.

Why We Love It

There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about Trail Bologna. For many, it’s tied to family gatherings, road trips through Amish Country, or simple evenings at home with cheese and crackers.

We love Trail Bologna because:

• It’s made with 100% beef
• It has a smoky, savory flavor that’s hard to beat
• It pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar cheese and mustard
• It’s versatile—great for snacking, sandwiches, or appetizers

It’s also a popular choice for holiday gift boxes and party platters, especially when paired with local cheeses and preserves.

Where to Buy Trail Bologna

Authentic Trail Bologna can be hard to find outside Ohio, but thankfully you can order Trail Bologna online at Cheesehouse.com. We stock only the finest, freshly made bologna sourced from Amish Country producers.

Looking for a perfect pairing? Try it with our Amish Baby Swiss Cheese or add it to a Cheese Gift Box for a delicious Ohio-made treat.

Final Thoughts

Trail Bologna is more than just a regional specialty—it’s a tradition. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying it for the first time, this savory smoked sausage delivers an authentic taste of Ohio’s food culture.

Order your Trail Bologna ring today and experience why so many people can’t get enough of this local favorite.

Image Alt Text: “Sliced Trail Bologna ring with cheese and mustard on a rustic wooden board”