The best traffic-free bike rides in Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

The region around Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument offers several dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes, primarily utilizing the extensive Miami Valley Trails network. Our guide features 5 routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, perfect for exploring the area safely.

The no-traffic routes in this area, particularly those on the Miami Valley Trails network like the Little Miami Scenic Trail and Creekside Trail, are generally flat and well-maintained. They often follow old railroad beds, providing a consistent, paved surface suitable for road bikes through river valleys, woodlands, and open prairie landscapes.

Yes, there are easy routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the Creekside Trail – Coffee Hub loop from Glady Run Reserve is an easy 39.8 km (24.7 mi) ride with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Corwin – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Sterling Green Park, which is 38.8 km (24.1 mi) and also rated easy.

The longest no-traffic route featured in this guide is the Little Miami Scenic Trail – Xenia Station loop from Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve. This moderate route covers approximately 83.9 km (52.1 mi), offering an extensive ride through the scenic Miami Valley.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in this area, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, paved, and traffic-free nature of the Miami Valley Trails, the scenic rural landscapes, and the historical significance of the region, including its connection to the Buffalo Soldiers' 'Great Bicycle Experiment'.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Flacks Pond loop from Alpha and the Creekside Trail – Xenia Station loop from Beavercreek Township, providing convenient options for your ride.

While cycling the no-traffic routes, you'll experience the rural beauty of Greene County, including river valleys and open prairie. The region is rich in history, being home to the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument itself. You'll also pass near historical institutions like Wilberforce University and Central State University. The trails often connect to various Greene County Parks and Reserves, such as the Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve.

Yes, ample parking is available at various access points to the Miami Valley Trails network. Xenia, often called the 'hub' of these trails, has significant parking facilities, including at Xenia Station. Many trailheads and parks along the routes also offer dedicated parking for cyclists.

Absolutely. The paved, generally flat, and traffic-free nature of trails like the Little Miami Scenic Trail and Creekside Trail makes them ideal for family cycling. The absence of vehicle traffic ensures a safer and more relaxed experience for riders of all ages and skill levels.

Most multi-use paths within the Miami Valley Trails network, including the Little Miami Scenic Trail and Creekside Trail, are dog-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome as long as they are kept on a leash and owners adhere to local regulations regarding waste disposal. Always check specific trail rules before you go.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for road biking in this region. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly scenic with vibrant fall foliage. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, the Miami Valley Trails network is well-supported with amenities. Towns like Xenia and Yellow Springs, which are connected by these trails, offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel and take a break. Some routes, like the Creekside Trail – Coffee Hub loop from Glady Run Reserve, even highlight specific coffee stops.