Great Miami River Trail
This trail meanders through the Great Miami River Valley from Fairfield to Hamilton and from Middleton to Piqua. One day, we hope the GMRT can fully connect Cincinnati to Dayton.
Hugging the Great Miami River Valley for nearly all its route, this winding trail follows US Bike Route 25 and in some places the former Miami and Erie Canal. It passes through a dozen charming downtowns, including Hamilton, Fairfield, Middletown, Franklin, and Dayton. Each unique city offers plenty of opportunity for culture, sightseeing and dining, while nearby parkland and nature preserves are home to a variety of native wildlife.
The valley’s gently rolling hills provide an enjoyable terrain for runners, walkers and cyclists, as well as unmatched river views. Thanks to easy access to bike repair stations, bike stairs and ramps, the Great Miami River Trail was named Best Bike Trail in Ohio by Ohio Magazine in 2019.
Who it’s great for
Bicyclists, walkers, joggers, skaters, nature lovers
What to look for
Wildlife like blue heron, kingfisher, beaver, white-tailed deer and a variety of fish and aquatic life
Where to visit
Joyce Park; Fitton Center for the Creative Arts; Rentschler Forest; Historic downtowns in Hamilton, Middletown, and Franklin
LENGTH
11.2 miles from Fairfield to Hamilton
77 miles from Middletown to Piqua
TERRAIN
Paved, flat, river valley
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy to moderate
CONNECTING TRAILS:
US Bike Route 25, Hamilton Beltline, and Miami Valley trails like Wolf Creek Trail, Mad River Trail, Stillwater Trail, Ohio-to-Indiana Trail, and Dayton Kettering Connector
END POINTS:
Waterworks Park in Fairfield to Rentschler Forest in Fairfield Township
Trenton Trailhead south of Middletown to Lock Nine Park in Piqua
COUNTIES:
Butler, Warren, Montgomery, Miami, Butler, Shelby
LEARN MORE:
Wasson Way
Wasson Way
Currently the Wasson Way trail runs for 3.5 miles from Old Red Bank Road at the edge of Ault Park to Montgomery Road at the edge of Xavier University.
Riverfront Commons
Riverfront Commons
A recreational trail project connecting northern Kentucky river cities along the Ohio River.
Whitewater Canal Trail
Whitewater Canal Trail
Following a historic canal route through Indiana’s Whitewater River Valley, this trail offers undisturbed views of aqueducts, locks and wildlife.
Licking River Greenway Trail
Licking River Greenway Trail
Covington’s riverfront boasts a 2-mile braided trail network featuring a natural surface trail along the river, a paved multi-use trail on the levee, and a series of murals.
Mill Creek Greenway Trail
Mill Creek Greenway Trail
Once infamous as one of “America’s most endangered rivers,” the Mill Creek now proudly showcases diverse wildlife, public art, and an edible forest garden along its multi-use trail.
