Little Miami Scenic Trail

The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use rail-trail, known for its generally flat and gentle grades with minimal elevation changes. This makes it an easy and beginner-friendly ride, suitable for touring bikes, gravel bikes, or rigid mountain bikes. It's largely accessible for all skill levels.

The trail offers diverse scenery, winding through tranquil wooded areas, open farmlands, and charming small towns. You'll often parallel the Little Miami River, providing picturesque waterside views. Notable points of interest include the historic Xenia Station, and the trail also passes by the Fort Ancient State Historic Site. Towns like Loveland offer lively atmospheres with shops and restaurants.

Yes, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is a crucial part of larger trail networks. It connects to the statewide Buckeye Trail, the North Country National Scenic Trail (OH), and the Ohio to Erie Trail, which runs from Cincinnati to Cleveland. It's also part of U.S. Bicycle Route 21. In Xenia, it converges with several other trails, including sections of the Creekside Trail and Prairie Grass Trail.

Parking is widely available at numerous trailheads along the route, from Newtown to Springfield. Xenia Station in Xenia is a significant hub where four different trails converge, offering convenient parking and amenities.

Yes, the trail offers convenient access to various amenities. You'll find bike rental and repair stations, campgrounds, and restroom facilities along its route. Many towns connected by the trail, such as Loveland and Spring Valley, provide shops, cafes, restaurants, breweries, and places to resupply.

Yes, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is generally dog-friendly. As a multi-use trail, dogs are typically permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. The trail's shaded sections provide some relief during hotter months.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Little Miami Scenic Trail itself. As a linear state park, it is well-maintained and provides an accessible car-free corridor for multi-use activities free of charge.

The full Little Miami Scenic Trail is approximately 78 miles long. For the specific section from Xenia to Spring Valley, as detailed in this tour, it covers about 21.7 km (13.5 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete by touring bicycle, depending on your pace and stops.

Yes, particularly in Greene County, horseback riding is permitted on the trail. Cyclists should be mindful of this and always yield to horses. Approach slowly, speak calmly to alert riders of your presence, and pass wide when safe.

Absolutely! Its generally flat, paved surface and car-free environment make it an excellent choice for families with children. The trail connects to many towns with amenities, and its easy difficulty ensures a pleasant experience for all ages.