BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN CINCINNATI

Ride along the Ohio River

When it comes to scenic routes in Cincinnati, you can’t beat the Ohio River Trail. This flat, paved pathway runs along the banks of the Ohio River, offering panoramic views, breezy rides, and stops full of culture and good eats. The trail is part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail, so it's ideal for both casual tourists and hardcore bikepackers starting a longer journey across the state.

Highlights of the Ohio River Trail

• Stunning skyline views of downtown Cincinnati

• Access to Smale Riverfront Park and Sawyer Point

• Connects to Newport and Covington via pedestrian bridges

• Plenty of coffee stops and riverside patios

• Perfect for families, beginners, and leisure riders

If you’re touring with panniers or a trailer, the wide lanes and low traffic make this route a dream. Plus, you’ll ride past art installations, historical markers, and local musicians performing during weekends. You can easily rack up 10 to 20 miles round trip just looping between downtown and Lunken Airport Trail without feeling like you're repeating scenery. Bonus tip: sunset rides along this stretch are next-level magic.

Don’t forget to cross over the Purple People Bridge into Newport, KY, where you can grab a bite or even extend your ride through riverfront trails on the Kentucky side. This cross-state element makes the route feel like an international bike adventure without needing a passport. Just remember to bring your camera — you're gonna want receipts.

Explore neighborhood greenways and loops

While riverfront paths are a must, Cincinnati’s inner neighborhoods offer some underrated gems for bike touring. From the serene loops of Ault Park to the charming brick-lined streets of Columbia-Tusculum, these routes bring you closer to local culture, history, and shaded climbs that are as rewarding as the descents.

Best local routes for urban riders

• Ault Park Loop: tree-covered climbs, botanical gardens, and a scenic overlook

• Hyde Park to Oakley: cute cafés, boutique stops, and residential calm

• Columbia Parkway Trail: access historic districts and stunning mural art

• Mt. Lookout rides: mix of smooth residential roads and quick climbs

• Avon Woods Nature Preserve: forest feel within city limits

For cyclists who love mixing pedaling with pit stops, these routes offer the best of both. Many bike-friendly cafés dot these neighborhoods, and bike racks are widely available. Local businesses even have cycling discount deals, especially around Hyde Park Square, so keep your eyes peeled. This is the type of terrain where gravel or hybrid tires shine — you’ll hit everything from brick roads to shaded gravel paths.

A solid loop to try starts at Lunken Airport Trail, heads up through Mt. Lookout, cuts across to Ault Park, then loops back through Observatory Ave. Expect around 15 miles of rolling terrain, and don’t be surprised if you end up stopping for a craft beer or gourmet donut halfway through. Cincinnati’s cycling scene is that kind of vibe — relaxed, local, and full of friendly pit crew energy.

Take on challenging climbs and distance rides

Ready to elevate your ride — literally? Cincinnati’s unique geography makes it a prime destination for hill-lovers and distance seekers. With routes that zigzag through historic inclines, forested switchbacks, and winding ridgelines, you’ll get your climbing fix and then some. The reward? Epic city views, quiet country roads, and bragging rights.

Top routes for experienced riders

• Devou Park Climb: 6-10% grades and panoramic skyline payoff

• Anderson to Milford Ride: 30+ miles through countryside and charming towns

• East Fork State Park: gravel and road loops for century rides

• Mt. Adams ascent: short but steep, with artsy surroundings

• Ohio to Erie Trail (Cincy start): begin a multi-day tour north to Lake Erie

One of the most iconic rides starts in Anderson Township, follows the Little Miami Scenic Trail up to Milford, and loops back via rolling backroads. It’s about 35 miles of mixed elevation with smooth pavement and little traffic. If you want to crank it up, head further east toward Loveland and spend the night at a B&B. This is prime bike-touring country with designated campgrounds and plenty of bike-friendly stops.

Looking for a serious climb? Devou Park’s ride is no joke. With punchy ascents and jaw-dropping overlooks, it’ll test your legs and reward your camera roll. For those wanting a multi-day adventure, the Ohio to Erie Trail starts right here and goes all the way to Cleveland — over 320 miles of paved bliss. The Cincinnati section sets the tone with its parks, art scenes, and historic architecture.

Don’t be surprised if you bump into fellow bike tourers with fully loaded rigs. This region is on the radar of cyclists looking for under-the-radar routes that still feel curated and safe. And if you’re touring solo, rest easy: Cincinnati has a friendly, ride-curious vibe with plenty of local riders happy to share route tips or pace you up a hill.