Chances are good, that cycling is the first activity that comes to mind regarding the miles of paved, multi-use trails that weave through our region. But communities, park systems and transportation systems are working to link those established trails to serve a far greater purpose than just recreation. They are also a practical transportation corridor which connects our neighborhoods and offers attractive alternatives for commuting to offices, school, recreation, parks, shopping, and dining establishments, all while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
While connections are being made throughout the tri-state area, specific recent developments—connecting Newtown to downtown—have trail enthusiasts buzzing.
• Columbia Connector: A 1.6-mile trail by Great Parks of Hamilton County, slated for completion in 2028, linking Newtown to the Mariemont Library.
• The Mariemont Connector: A 0.6-mile, 1.1-mile stretch is still needed to connect Wasson Way to the Mariemont Library. The project is being overseen by the Village of Mariemont, to thoughtfully preserve the area’s distinctive character.
• Oasis Trail: Spanning 4.75 miles from Sawyer Point to Lunken Airport, this ambitious project—developed in partnership with the City of Cincinnati, Metro, and the Indiana & Ohio Railway—will transition from urban riverfront to open green space.
• Ohio River Trail: When completed, this 23-mile riverfront pathway will follow the northern bank of the Ohio River, linking downtown Cincinnati with surrounding neighborhoods and extending to Newport via the iconic Purple People Bridge.
• The CROWN: These projects contribute to the realization of an ambitious 34-mile loop designed for both cyclists and pedestrians. Fully separated from roadway traffic, it will ultimately connect more than 356,000 residents across 54 communities to key destinations throughout the region.
Consider setting aside an afternoon to explore a segment, perhaps pairing your outing with a leisurely stop at one of the many curated dining or beverage destinations along the route. The experience is as much about the journey as it is the destination.
Article originally appeared in May 2026