The best road cycling routes in Little Miami State Park
4.6
(59)
2,323
riders
82
rides
Road cycling routes in Little Miami State Park primarily follow the Little Miami Scenic Trail, an extensive paved path winding through the Little Miami River Valley. This region is characterized by lush forests, rolling farmland, and dramatic geological formations including towering cliffs and steep gorges. The park's terrain offers a mix of flat sections along the river and gentle inclines, making it suitable for various road cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes in Little Miami State Park
- The most popular road cycling route is Signal of Little Miami River Railroad – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Milford, an easy 15.2 miles (24.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 3 minutes to complete. This route follows the scenic river corridor, offering views of the Little Miami River.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Roadbike loop from Milford, an easy 12.4 miles (20.0 km) path. This route provides a pleasant ride through the local countryside, often shaded by mature trees.
- Local road cyclists also love the Little Miami Scenic Trail – Signal of Little Miami River Railroad loop from Loveland, an 18.5 miles (29.8 km) trail leading through the river valley and forested areas, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Road cycling in Little Miami State Park is defined by its extensive paved rail-trail, lush forests, and the scenic Little Miami River Valley. The network offers options for easy rides and longer excursions, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Little Miami State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 2,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Little Miami State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
5.0
(1)
72
riders
32.9km
01:31
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
79
riders
20.0km
00:56
60m
60m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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21
riders
53.2km
02:24
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
58.0km
02:28
320m
320m
The Milford – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Loveland offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding alongside the tranquil Little Miami River. You'll pedal on a smooth, paved surface, shaded by a lush, mature tree canopy, which makes for a pleasant ride even on sunnier days. The route connects the charming small towns of Loveland and Milford, providing a mix of natural beauty and historic architecture, and you might even spot some local wildlife like deer or bald eagles along the way.
This moderate 36.1-mile (58.0 km) cycling route, with 1055 feet (322 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Loveland is a popular and convenient starting point, offering free public parking, restrooms, and picnic tables at Nisbet Park. The trail is well-suited for cyclists of varying fitness levels, and the historic downtowns of Loveland and Milford are perfect for mid-ride breaks or post-ride refreshments.
Part of the much larger Little Miami Scenic Trail, this loop follows an old railroad line, giving it a mostly flat and accessible terrain. The trail's proximity to the Little Miami River means you'll enjoy continuous water views and opportunities to observe other recreational activities like canoeing. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a scenic, well-supported ride with plenty of amenities and historical points of interest.
50.7km
02:14
310m
310m
The Roadbike loop from Loveland offers a delightful and accessible road cycling experience, following a flat, paved rail-trail along the scenic Little Miami River. This moderate route covers 31.5 miles (50.7 km) with a gentle 1022 feet (312 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed ride that takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. You'll glide through areas of sparkling sunshine and cool shade, with opportunities to spot Canadian geese, ducks, deer, and even bald eagles, all while passing through charming historic downtowns like Loveland, Milford, and Lebanon. It's an ideal option for cyclists of all skill levels seeking a pleasant outing.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible with numerous entry points and parking available in the towns it traverses. These historic downtowns are well-equipped with amenities, including coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and restaurants, providing convenient spots for refreshments or a meal. The trail is generally enjoyable throughout the day during the warmer seasons, offering a smooth and unchallenging ride for anyone looking to explore the area by bike.
This particular loop is a segment of the much larger Little Miami Scenic Trail, an extensive network spanning over 70 miles and connecting to more than 100 miles of other trails, highlighting its significance in the region's cycling infrastructure. Beyond its natural beauty and accessibility, the trail boasts historical importance, passing by Civil War sites and showcasing old railway history. The city of Loveland, Ohio, has even hosted the "Tour de Loveland," a cycling race that celebrated this very trail, underscoring its popularity among local cyclists.
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Popular around Little Miami State Park
Tips from the Community
The town of Milford is a Trail Town along the Buckeye Trail and the Little Miami River Trail, with a main Junction connecting to the trails just west of downtown across the river. In town there are restaurants and plenty of options for lodging and resupply, including some local campgrounds.
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This section of the trail passes by some striking remnants of the region's industrial past: the former King Powder Company and Peters Cartridge Company factories. These historic buildings have been revitalized and now house Cartridge Brewing Co. and the Peters Cartridge Factory Apartments.
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The Little Miami Scenic Trail is a 78-mile multi-use trail that runs through southwestern Ohio, connecting Newtown to other communities and scenic areas. The trail is part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail network, offering a paved, multi-use path for cyclists, walkers, and runners. In Newtown, the trail runs right alongside the Little Miami River, providing nice views and a peaceful setting. It features well-maintained, paved surfaces, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
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Great spot for a cycling break. Public restrooms, several restaurants, and next-to-trail camping just south of town
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Kroger Hills is a 217 acre nature preserve south of the Wooster Pike. There is old-growth forest, a restored prairie and 80 acres of grassland, and the Miami River flowing through it. There isn't any public parking or facilities, including bathrooms, available, and there aren't really any trails for cycling through the woods and grasslands, but you can ride on the outskirts of it along the Little Miami Scenic Trail and enjoy its beauty from there.
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Situated near Miami Grove and Remington, this small lake runs alongside the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail, a multi-use path perfect for a ride through this lovely area. In addition to its natural beauty, Bern Lake is also known for hosting local fishing contests, making it a popular spot for anglers.
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Kroger Hills is a 217 acre nature preserve south of the Wooster Pike. There is old-growth forest, a restored prairie and 80 acres of grassland, and the Miami River flowing through it. There isn't any public parking or facilities, including bathrooms, available, and there aren't really any trails for cycling through the woods and grasslands, but you can ride on the outskirts of it along the Little Miami Scenic Trail and enjoy its beauty from there
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Great spot to grab grub and potty break
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Little Miami State Park?
Little Miami State Park offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 80 options recorded on komoot. These routes primarily follow the extensive Little Miami Scenic Trail, providing diverse experiences for cyclists.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling routes in Little Miami State Park?
The routes in Little Miami State Park cater to all skill levels. You'll find a significant number of easy routes (over 30), many moderate options (over 40), and a few more challenging rides. The Little Miami Scenic Trail, being a paved rail-trail, generally offers a smooth surface suitable for various abilities.
Are there any beginner-friendly road cycling routes in the park?
Yes, Little Miami State Park is excellent for beginners. The paved, relatively flat sections of the Little Miami Scenic Trail provide a safe and enjoyable environment. An easy option is the Roadbike loop from Milford, which is 12.4 miles (20.0 km) and offers a pleasant ride through the countryside.
Where can I find parking for road cycling access in Little Miami State Park?
Numerous parking areas are available along the Little Miami Scenic Trail. Popular starting points like Loveland and Milford offer ample facilities. Many towns along the trail provide convenient access points with parking.
What amenities are available along the road cycling routes?
The Little Miami Scenic Trail is well-equipped with amenities. Cyclists can find restrooms (seasonal), picnic tables, and access to restaurants and shops in charming towns such as Loveland, Milford, Xenia, and Yellow Springs. Bike rental and repair stations are also available in some areas.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling in Little Miami State Park?
Yes, several loop routes are available. For example, the Signal of Little Miami River Railroad – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Milford is a popular 15.2-mile (24.5 km) option that follows the scenic river corridor. Another choice is the Little Miami Scenic Trail – Signal of Little Miami River Railroad loop from Loveland, an 18.5-mile (29.8 km) trail through the river valley.
What kind of scenery can I expect while road cycling in Little Miami State Park?
The Little Miami Scenic Trail meanders through the picturesque Little Miami River Valley, offering diverse landscapes. You'll cycle past rolling farmland, through lush forests with towering sycamores, and alongside dramatic geological formations like cliffs and gorges. The trail also follows the banks of the Little Miami River, a designated federal and state scenic river.
Can I spot wildlife while cycling in the park?
Yes, the park is rich in biodiversity. Along the river, you might spot great blue herons, while the forested areas are home to various colorful warblers and other songbirds. The shaded slopes also boast over 340 species of wildflowers, adding to the natural beauty.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Little Miami State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, paved surface of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, the beautiful riverside scenery, and the convenience of amenities in the towns along the route.
Are there any longer or more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For those seeking longer rides, the park offers moderate options. The Little Miami Scenic Trail – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Loveland is a moderate 30.9-mile (49.7 km) route. Another moderate option is the Eden Park – Mirror Lake loop from Milford, covering 30.2 miles (48.7 km).
What is the best time of year for road biking in Little Miami State Park?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for road biking in Little Miami State Park. The weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery is vibrant, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially with the shade provided by the lush forests along the trail.
Are there any historic sites or towns to explore along the routes?
The Little Miami River Valley is rich in history. Cyclists can pass through towns with historical relevance, including those associated with the Underground Railroad. The trail also connects to points of interest like Xenia Station, a hub for multiple trails, and is near the Fort Ancient State Historic Site, built by Hopewell Indians.
Most popular routes in Little Miami State Park
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