On a seasonable Saturday afternoon late last summer, cyclists of all skill levels from across the Tri-State gathered at Fifty West Brewing Company in Columbia Township for what would become, for many, a first glimpse at a vision advocates and planners have been working toward since 2018: the Cincinnati Riding Or Walking Network, or CROWN.

The first annual Tour de CROWN, presented by Great Parks, blew away organizers’ and participants’ expectations, hosting more than 325 riders and raising more than $20,000 toward Tri-State Trail’s mission to make the 34-mile urban trail loop a reality. 

This year, the Tour de CROWN looks to go even further. Early-bird registration is open until March 3, 2024, and all proceeds benefit Tri-State Trails and the CROWN.

“While last year’s Tour de CROWN was a greater success than we ever expected, this year promises to show off even more of the finished trails and bikeways, with new segments on Wasson Way and the Ohio River Trail West,” said Tri-State Trails Executive Director Wade Johnston. “Events like these really go to show just how much support this project, and other trail projects like it, have across Hamilton County and across our region.”

Tri-State Trails Executive Director Wade Johnston

Like last year, Tour de CROWN 2024 will be presented by Great Parks and will offer three distance options, all beginning and ending at Fifty West Brewing Company (7605 Wooster Pike in Columbia Township) and each featuring rest stops and rider support from Reser Bicycle Outfitters and event volunteers. Registration includes a post-ride burger and beer from Fifty West.

Also, like last year, riders will tour popular sections of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, Lunken Trail, Ohio River Trail, Mill Creek Greenway, and Wasson Way. Unlike last year, however, riders on the 34-mile route will explore a section of the Ohio River Trail West and the newly opened Wasson Way phase 6A through Avondale.

Following the ride, participants are invited to explore the Tour de CROWN Expo, where dozens of local trail organizations, cycling groups, and outdoor programs will be gathered to celebrate the CROWN and the spirit of exploration it has already begun to cultivate throughout the region.

The Tour de CROWN has an enjoyable experience for all skill levels and abilities:

• Full CROWN/34-mile ride – 8:00 a.m. departure: Tackle all the trails the CROWN Trail Loop offers to date. This year’s route will feature a new section of the Ohio River Trail West and the Wasson Way Uptown Connector. Conquer Cincinnati’s iconic hills and see the trail’s progress and potential first-hand. This ride includes many on-road sections where the trail network has not yet been completed.
• Half CROWN/17.5-mile ride – 8:30 a.m. departure: Expand your range and explore parts of the CROWN you’ve never experienced. This ride will traverse the Little Miami Scenic Trail, Lunken Airport, Ohio River Trail, Delta Avenue bikeway, Wasson Way, and Murray Path. Portions of this ride are on-road, where the trail network is not completed yet.
• Tour de CROWN 8.5-mile ride – 9:00 a.m. departure: Enjoy an easy pedal on the Little Miami Scenic Trail down to Great Parks’ Beechmont Bridge and back.