WANT MORE OPTIONS FOR QUICK, FUN, HEALTHY THINGS TO DO IN THE REGION? FIND MORE ON THE NOT FAR OFF PAGE.
1. Mad River Bikeway
Beginning in downtown Dayton at the RiverScape Metro Park (237 E. Monument Ave.), the Mad River Bikeway is 6.2 miles long and runs along the banks of the Mad River the entire way. You'll have the opportunity to ride through the Eastwood MetroPark, Huffman MetroPark, and pass by and under some familiar bridges at Deeds Point and Findlay Street. This trail also offers some great views of the Dayton skyline. The Mad River Trail is great for commuters and tourists alike, as it passes the entrance for the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and employee entrances for Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
2. Dayton-Kettering connector
If you don't mind sharing the road for parts of your journey, the Dayton-Kettering connector is a great choice with lots of points of interest along the way. Traveling from RiverScape (237 E. Monument Ave.), past the Oregon District and due south, the "DKC" winds through the University of Dayton, the scenic suburbs of Oakwood and Kettering, and brings you to the beautiful Lincoln Park and Fraze Pavilion. This trail can be a part of your perfect summer ride that ends in a concert at the Fraze.
>> 10 things to know about Miami Valley bike trails
3. Creekside Trail
With 18 miles of fully-paved bike trails, the Creekside Trail begins at Eastwood MetroPark (1385 Harshman Rd.), runs through Beavercreek, and extends all the way to Xenia. As you ride, you'll cross the Little Miami Scenic River, Shawnee Creek, and get an opportunity to stop at Xenia Station. This trail offers a number of parks along the way for water and restroom breaks, as well.
4. Great Miami River Trail
If you're looking for an all-day adventure, the Great Miami River Trail is what you've been waiting for. At 57 miles, with an additional 12 miles of additional segments, this behemoth biking adventure can carry you all the way from Piqua to Hamilton. Beginning on Baxter Dr. in Franklin, you'll have the opportunity to see Dayton's Carillon Park, the Dayton Art Institute, the Riverscape MetroPark, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and more! You'll witness beautiful natural surroundings, stunning wildlife, manicured parks, powerful dams, and historic buildings. There's something for everyone on this trail, and it's a great ride to spend your spring building up the endurance for. It's a trip that's well worth the work you will put in.
All in all, bike riding is not only a great way to stay in shape, it's also something the Dayton area is perfect for. You can stop by the Miami Valley Trails website for more information on these and other bike trails in the area.
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