Photo: John Paul Combs (jpaulroams)
Photo: Soumya Prasad Mishra
Photo: Shilpakala Chetan
Little Miami Scenic Trail
FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5-3 hours for younger families doing a short out-and-back ride; half-day or full-day adventures for experienced cycling families👶 Best for ages 3 and up. Toddlers can ride in bike trailers or strollers on the smooth pavement, while elementary-aged kids love the independence of biking or rollerblading on the safe, car-free trail. Teens enjoy the longer distance options for a real cycling adventure.
About
The Little Miami Scenic Trail offers families over 78 miles of smooth, paved pathways perfect for introducing kids to biking adventures or enjoying leisurely strolls alongside the beautiful Little Miami River. This multi-use trail is ideal for families of all activity levels, with scenic river views, shaded areas, and plenty of spots to stop for picnics or wildlife watching along the way.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, flat paved surface perfect for beginner cyclists and young riders
- ✓Scenic views of the Little Miami River with opportunities for wildlife spotting
- ✓Multiple access points allowing families to customize their distance
- ✓Car-free environment where kids can safely ride bikes
- ✓Connection to charming downtown Loveland with shops and ice cream
Pro Tips
- 1.Start at the Loveland trailhead where you'll find ample parking, restrooms, and nearby bike rental shops if you don't have your own equipment.
- 2.Pack snacks and water bottles,while there are several access points, services aren't available along most of the trail itself.
- 3.Bring a bike lock so you can secure your bikes and explore the charming town of Loveland or stop at riverside parks along the way.
- 4.The trail can get busy on weekend mornings, so arrive early or visit on weekday afternoons for a more peaceful experience.
- 5.Look for turtles sunbathing on logs and herons fishing along the river,kids love spotting wildlife, so bring binoculars for extra fun.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery with wildflowers or colorful foliage. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are less crowded than weekend middays. Avoid visiting during midday summer heat,early morning rides are much more pleasant.
What to Know
The trail is completely free to use with multiple access points offering parking (some free, some paid). There are restrooms at major trailheads like Loveland, but limited facilities along the trail, so plan accordingly.
Seasonal Notes
The trail is open year-round, though winter can be icy. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and active wildlife. Summer can be hot,go early or late in the day. Fall foliage from late September through October is absolutely spectacular and the most popular time to visit.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Paxton's Grill in Loveland (just off the trail) for burgers and a kids menu, or grab ice cream at Loveland Sweets & Soda Shoppe,a perfect post-ride treat that kids will love.
More Activities Near Anderson Township
Activity
Nagel Middle School
Free
Nagel Middle School operates a free seasonal splash pad that's perfect for cooling off on hot summer days in Anderson Township. This community gem offers young children a safe, supervised water play area without the admission fees or crowds of larger water parks, making it an ideal quick outing for toddlers and early elementary-aged kids.
Park
Juilfs Park
★4.8Free❤️34
Juilfs Park stands out as Anderson Township's premier family destination, offering something for everyone with its well-maintained playgrounds, expansive walking trails, and plenty of open space for kids to run free. With a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 families, this park delivers on both quality equipment and variety, making it a reliable choice for everything from quick playground visits to full-day family outings.
Sports
Clippard Family YMCA
★4.6$$❤️12
The Clippard Family YMCA is a one-stop destination for active families in Anderson Township, offering something for every age group. With indoor swimming pools, quality childcare services, and an extensive lineup of youth programs ranging from swim lessons to sports leagues, it's the perfect place to keep your kids active year-round while parents can squeeze in their own workout.
Ice Cream
Graeter's Ice Cream
★4.6$$❤️58
Graeter's Ice Cream in Anderson Township is a beloved Cincinnati institution where families can indulge in handcrafted French Pot ice cream made with time-honored techniques. Kids will be mesmerized watching scoops of incredibly rich, creamy ice cream studded with massive chocolate chips being served in cones or bowls, while parents appreciate the authentic quality and reasonable prices at this local favorite.