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Ohio
Greene County

Xenia

The best traffic-free bike rides around Xenia

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 11, 2026

If you’ve ever tried planning touring cycling around Xenia, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many miles of trails, it’s tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want to spend your time riding, not endlessly sifting through maps. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. Our komoot community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped the best no traffic touring cycling routes in Xenia, so you can skip the guesswork and head straight for the good stuff.

Xenia truly lives up to its "Bicycle Capital of the Midwest" moniker, offering an incredible network of car-free paths that are perfect for touring. Most of these routes follow former railway lines, meaning you’ll find mostly flat, paved surfaces that are ideal for all fitness levels. Expect tranquil woodlands, expansive open farmland, and scenic river views, especially along the Little Miami River. While the terrain is generally low-lying, connecting routes can offer a few gentle gradients, ensuring a varied but always accessible ride.

If you only do one ride, we’d start with the Little Miami Scenic Trail: Hedges to Founder's Park. At just 3.7 miles (5.9 km), it’s a perfect introduction to Xenia’s charm, offering tranquil woodlands and river views with minimal effort. For a longer, classic experience, the full Little Miami Scenic Trail, at 13.5 miles (21.7 km), is a local favorite, following a preserved corridor rich in natural beauty. With more than 280 touring cyclists already exploring Xenia with komoot, you’re in good company. Dive in and discover your next favorite ride!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Little Miami Scenic Trail: Hedges to Founder's Park
  2. 2

    Little Miami Scenic Trail
  3. 3

    Prairie Grass Trail

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Little Miami Scenic Trail: Hedges to Founder's Park

5.88 km

0 m

Easy

Little Miami Scenic Trail

21.7 km

60 m

Easy

Prairie Grass Trail

26.5 km

80 m

Easy

Old Town Reserve - Xenia – Glen Helen Nature Preserve loop from Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve

30.6 km

100 m

Easy

Xenia Station – Little Miami Scenic Trail loop from Xenia

46.0 km

110 m

Moderate

Creekside Trail – Beavercreek Station loop from Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve

33.4 km

90 m

Easy

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1.

Little Miami Scenic Trail: Hedges to Founder's Park

5.88km

00:19

0m

40m

This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) touring cycling route along the Little Miami Scenic Trail, from Hedges to Founder's Park, is a delightful escape. With only 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, you'll cruise effortlessly for about 18 minutes through a picturesque landscape. Expect a smooth, paved path that hugs the Little Miami River, winding through peaceful wooded sections and open farm fields, offering a consistently pleasant and accessible ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Hedges Road start point offers convenient parking. This segment is particularly family-friendly, making it a great option for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. To fully enjoy the tranquil riverside views and avoid busier times, consider heading out in the morning or on a weekday.

The Little Miami Scenic Trail is a historic rail-trail, following the path of an old railroad, which explains its remarkably flat grade. It's also a significant part of larger networks like the Ohio to Erie Trail, connecting communities and showcasing the natural beauty of the Little Miami River Valley, a designated scenic river.

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2.

Little Miami Scenic Trail

21.7km

01:16

60m

60m

The Little Miami Scenic Trail offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, winding for 13.5 miles (21.7 km) with a mere 200 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy ride that takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes. You'll pedal along the Little Miami River, through tranquil wooded areas, and past open farmlands, enjoying a mostly paved surface that's perfect for a relaxed outing. The scenery is diverse, with glimpses of towering cliffs and charming small towns like Spring Valley Historic Main Street along the way.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-supported with amenities. Xenia, in particular, serves as a convenient hub where you can find dining, shops, and bike services. The trail is multi-use, so expect to share the path with walkers and rollerbladers. It's an excellent choice for beginners or families looking for an accessible and enjoyable cycling adventure without the need for special permits.

This section of the Little Miami Scenic Trail is part of a much larger network, connecting to the extensive Miami Valley Trails and forming a segment of the Ohio to Erie Trail. Its historical significance as a former railroad corridor adds a unique character, with remnants of the old railway visible in places. The trail's gentle grade and varied scenery make it one of the most popular routes for exploring the natural beauty and charming towns of southwestern Ohio.

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3.

Prairie Grass Trail

26.5km

01:30

80m

80m

The Prairie Grass Trail offers a wonderfully flat and easy touring cycling experience through Ohio's heartland. This 16.5-mile (26.5 km) route, with a mere 270 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a relaxed ride. You'll pedal past expansive fields of corn and soybeans, with sections bordered by native prairie grasses and wildflowers, providing a peaceful, open-air journey. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the charming small town of Cedarville as you cruise along the smooth, paved surface.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with good access and amenities along the way. Xenia Station is a key starting point and a hub for connecting to other trails, offering convenience for cyclists. Remember that much of the trail has limited tree cover, so bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. You'll find restrooms and picnic areas in towns like South Charleston and Cedarville, ensuring comfortable stops.

This trail is a significant part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail, highlighting its historical roots as a former railroad corridor. Its flat profile and well-maintained asphalt make it a fantastic beginner touring bike route, perfect for families or anyone looking for an accessible long-distance ride. You might even spot monarch butterflies in season, adding to the natural beauty of this well-loved path.

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4.

Old Town Reserve - Xenia – Glen Helen Nature Preserve loop from Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve

30.6km

01:47

100m

100m

This easy touring cycling loop offers a delightful journey through Ohio's natural beauty and charming towns. You'll glide along mostly paved surfaces, passing through lush forests and alongside the meandering Little Miami River, a designated National Scenic River. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you cycle past the tranquil wetlands of Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve and the dramatic limestone gorges of Glen Helen Nature Preserve, home to picturesque waterfalls and the historic Yellow Spring. This 19.0-mile (30.6 km) route, with a gentle 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect, relaxing ride for all skill levels, taking about 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete.

To plan your visit, start at the Sara Lee Arnovitz Nature Preserve, where parking is available. The trail is part of the well-maintained, car-free Little Miami Scenic Trail network, making it accessible and enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall offer ideal weather. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and bike racks in the towns of Xenia and Yellow Springs, which the route connects, making it easy to take a break or grab a bite.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience a segment of the larger Miami Valley Trails network, one of the country's most extensive paved trail systems. The route follows historic rail corridors, offering glimpses into the region's past, including areas with significance to Shawnee Chief Tecumseh. Beyond the cycling, you can explore the diverse attractions of Glen Helen Nature Preserve, which also features a Raptor Center, or visit the unique shops and restaurants in the nearby towns.

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Tips from the Community

Scott
April 15, 2025, Corwin

A small village along the Little Miami Scenic Trail, with access to several attractions. Just under a mile northwest, you can find Waynesville, which is known as the “Antiques Capital of the Midwest” and the “Home of the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival.” About 3 miles southwest, you can find the gorgeous Caesar Creek State Park, which offers excellent hiking trails.

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This 700-acre preserve was created from a gift of land to Antioch College by Hugh Taylor Birch to honor his daughter, Helen Birch Bartlett. Much of it is along the two creeks that flow by, and the trails access a number of picturesque waterfalls.

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mtm05005
August 12, 2024, Cedarville

Cedarville is a beautiful small town in Greene County. The town was originally settled by Irish and Scottish immigrants in 1799. It is right off the Prairie Grass Trail and is a great place for a break. The town is home to Cedarville University, which has a nice campus and lake that are open public visits.

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mtm05005
August 8, 2024, Xenia Station

The Xenia Station is a replica of an old brick train station that used to be in the area. It now holds a museum and meeting space, and serves as a trail head for several trails that intersect at this point.

1

0

The Little Miami Scenic Trail is a 78-mile long mulituse trail through Hamilton, Clermont, Warren, Greene, and Clark counties. This section of the trail is paved and completely off-road and links Xenia with Spring Valley. It takes you through tranquil woodlands.

0

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The Little Miami Scenic Trail is a 78-mile long mulituse trail through Hamilton, Clermont, Warren, Greene, and Clark counties. This section of the trail is paved and completely off-road and links Xenia with Spring Valley. It takes you through tranquil woodlands.

1

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Spring Valley was founded in 1844 by Edward Walton and his son Moses, Quakers who were from Virginia. The town was an important crossroads for the area's trade, as the Cincinnati-Xenia Pike and the Little Miami Railroad passed through the town. There are still many historical buildings in the town, including The Old Hotel and Livery and the woolen mill.

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0

mtm05005
July 31, 2024, Cedarville

Cedarville is a beautiful small town in Greene County. The town was originally settled by Irish and Scottish immigrants in 1799. It is right off the Prairie Grass Trail and is a great place for a break. The town is home to Cedarville University, which has a nice campus and lake that are open to public visits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Xenia?

Xenia, known as the 'Bicycle Capital of the Midwest,' offers a selection of 7 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes on komoot. These routes are part of the extensive Miami Valley Trails network, providing a safe and enjoyable cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Xenia's no-traffic touring cycling routes?

The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Xenia are predominantly flat and paved, making them accessible for various skill levels. They traverse diverse landscapes, including tranquil woodlands, expansive open farmland, and scenic river views, particularly along the Little Miami River. Most routes are rated as easy, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Xenia?

Yes, Xenia is an excellent destination for family-friendly cycling. Many of the routes are rated as easy, featuring flat, paved surfaces ideal for all ages. The Little Miami Scenic Trail: Hedges to Founder's Park, for example, offers a pleasant 3.7-mile ride through tranquil woodlands, perfect for a leisurely family outing.

What are some notable natural features or attractions I can see along these routes?

The routes offer a variety of natural beauty and points of interest. You can experience tranquil woodlands and river views along the Little Miami Scenic Trail, or enjoy Ohio's rural heartland with views of prairie grasses and farmland on the Prairie Grass Trail. For a central hub, visit Xenia Station, a replica 19th-century railroad depot that serves as a starting point for several trails.

Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes in Xenia?

Yes, there are circular options available. For instance, the Old Town Reserve - Xenia – Glen Helen Nature Preserve loop offers a scenic round trip. Another great option is the Creekside Trail – Beavercreek Station loop, which provides a pleasant circuit through natural corridors.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Xenia?

Xenia's extensive trail system is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter cycling is possible but depends on snow and ice conditions.

Where can I park my car to access the no-traffic bike trails in Xenia?

Xenia Station is a central hub for several major trails and offers convenient parking facilities. Many trailheads throughout the Miami Valley Trails network also provide dedicated parking areas, making it easy to access the car-free routes.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Xenia?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained, paved rail-trails that offer a truly traffic-free experience. The diverse scenery, from tranquil woodlands to open farmland, and the accessibility for all skill levels are frequently highlighted as major positives.

Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls or unique natural preserves?

While the primary touring routes are generally flat, the broader region around Xenia offers unique natural preserves. For stunning dolomite and limestone gorges with picturesque waterfalls, you might explore areas near Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. The Glen Helen Nature Preserve is also a notable highlight in the vicinity, offering natural beauty and opportunities for side explorations.

Can I access these no-traffic routes using public transport?

While Xenia is well-connected by its trail network, direct public transport access specifically designed for cyclists to trailheads might be limited. It's best to check local Greene County Transit (GCT) schedules and policies regarding bicycles if you plan to use public transport to reach the starting points of these routes.

Are there any amenities like cafes or restrooms along the no-traffic bike trails?

Yes, Xenia Station, a central point for many trails, offers concessions and visitor information. The extensive Miami Valley Trails system, which includes Xenia's routes, often features amenities in towns along the way, providing opportunities for refreshments, restrooms, and other services. Planning your route in advance can help identify specific stops.

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