From flat rail trails to wooded singletrack, riders on both sides of the Ohio River have no shortage of places to pedal  

Cyclists in Greater Cincinnati don’t have to travel far to find a good ride. Whether they want a flat, family-friendly path, a scenic cruise along the Ohio River or a muddy climb through the woods, the Tristate offers options for every skill level. 

Here are some of the region’s standout spots. 

Little Miami Scenic Trail

The crown jewel of local cycling, the Little Miami Scenic Trail stretches about 78 miles from near Newtown in Hamilton County north to Springfield. Built along a former railroad corridor, the paved trail is almost entirely flat, making it popular with beginners, families and long-distance riders alike. 

Many cyclists start in Loveland, where the trail runs straight through the heart of downtown. Riders can park, grab a bite to eat and then head out along the Little Miami River, which is designated as both a state and national scenic river. 

Wasson Way

Closer to the urban core, Wasson Way offers a newer rail-trail experience on Cincinnati’s east side. The paved path links neighborhoods including Evanston, Hyde Park and Oakley, giving residents a car-free way to commute, run errands or simply get some exercise. 

Supporters see the trail as a key piece of a larger regional network, with long-term plans to connect it to other paths across the city. 

Lunken Airport Trail

For a quick loop, riders can head to the East End, where a roughly 5-mile paved path circles the Lunken Airport Trail. The route is flat and mostly separated from traffic, and cyclists often get a close-up view of small planes taking off and landing. 

The loop is a favorite for families teaching children to ride and for adults squeezing in a lunchtime workout. 

Riverfront Commons and the Purple People Bridge

Across the river in Northern Kentucky, Riverfront Commons is a developing trail along the Ohio River that connects river cities such as Covington and Newport. The path offers some of the best skyline views in the region. 

Riders can make a loop by crossing the Purple People Bridge, a pedestrian and bicycle bridge linking Newport to downtown Cincinnati, then returning over another span. 

Devou Park 

Mountain bikers looking for a challenge can head to Devou Park in Covington, Kentucky. The park’s backcountry trails wind through wooded hillsides and reward riders with sweeping overlooks of the Cincinnati skyline. The trails were built and are maintained with help from the Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance, a volunteer group that supports mountain biking across the region. 

Before You Go

Trail conditions can change quickly after heavy rain, especially on dirt trails, so riders should check park websites or social media before heading out. Local cycling advocates also recommend wearing a helmet, carrying water and using lights when riding near dusk. 

With miles of pavement and dirt on both sides of the river, the biggest challenge for Tristate cyclists may be deciding where to ride first. 

This article was written using AI assistance.