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Little Miami Scenic Trail hiking area in Anderson Township, OH
Photo: John Paul Combs (jpaulroams)
View of Little Miami Scenic Trail in Anderson Township, OH
Photo: Soumya Prasad Mishra
View of Little Miami Scenic Trail in Anderson Township, OH
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. 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. 2.Pack snacks and water bottles,while there are several access points, services aren't available along most of the trail itself.
  3. 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. 4.The trail can get busy on weekend mornings, so arrive early or visit on weekday afternoons for a more peaceful experience.
  5. 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

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.

Park

Beech Acres Park

4.7Free

Beech Acres Park is a versatile Anderson Township gem that offers something for every family member. With its well-maintained playground, skateboard park, sports fields, and amphitheater, this park delivers variety that keeps kids entertained for hours. The expansive green spaces are perfect for picnics, kite flying, or simply letting the kids run wild while parents relax on the sidelines.

Park

Johnson Hills Park

4.7Free

Johnson Hills Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Anderson Township that's perfect for families seeking a low-key outdoor outing. With well-maintained playground equipment, plenty of open green space for running around, and peaceful walking paths, it's an ideal spot for toddlers and elementary-aged kids to burn energy while parents enjoy the community atmosphere.