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Warren County is rich with natural beauty and the many miles of bike trails running throughout the county best illustrate our rolling hills, luscious trees and diverse wildlife.
The Little Miami Scenic Trail winds along the Little Miami River for a stretch of 76 miles, moving through woodlands, countryside and towns alike. The trail passes through Yellow Springs, Xenia and Waynesville, before reaching downtown Milford. Bike part of the trail, or saddle up for the entire journey. Whatever you decide, there's plenty to do along the way.
Click here to download a map of the trail!
Click here for more information about the trail.
** A stretch of the trail between mile markers 28.3 and 34.2 will be closed until mid-June for pavement repairs.
There are numerous dining, lodging and rental options along the trail. Here is a sample of some of the key points of interest along the trail.
Corwin Peddler
69 Maple St., Waynesville 45068
513/897-3536 * www.thecorwinpeddler.com
A perfect stop for cyclists peddling along the trail, with services ranging from bike rental to homemade desserts and healthy eats. If you're coming from the south along the trail, Corwin is a great place to stop before completing the last section of the journey.
Loveland Bike and Skate Rental
206 Railroad Ave., Loveland 45140
513/683-0468 * www.lovelandbiketrail.com
This shop has everything from mountain bikes to cruisers, tricycles with kiddy trailers and even roller skates. For planning ahead, consult the Web site to preorder bikes for the day you plan to ride.
Little River Cafe
5527 Oregonia Rd., Oregonia 45054
513/932-4770 * www.little-river-cafe.com
A favorite among locals and bikers alike, Little River's drinks, large menu and entertainment from local musicians make it a great stop along the trail. Nachos and burgers fill the menu, along with surprising inclusions—filet mignon and frog legs.
Hammel House Inn
121 S. Main St., Waynesville 45068
888/892-2879, 513/897-2333 * www.hammelhouseinn.com
In downtown Waynesville, the Hammel House Inn has hosted travelers for nearly 200 years. Presidents Martin Van Buren and George W. Bush have seen its charming guest rooms and elegant dining room restaurant. Try the homemade Shaker tomato soup or coconut cream pie.
River Walker Bed & Breakfast
156 Corwin Rd., Oregonia, Ohio 45054
513/934-3921
This rustic, century-old bed and breakfast is set on five acres of land along the Little Miami River and Bike Trail. From your lodgings, explore the trail before returning home to comfortable private rooms, a billiards room and more.
Miranda's Old Time Ice Cream Shop
205 Main Street, Morrow, OH 45152
513/899-0063 * www.mirandasicecream.com
Stop in Morrow and enjoy Miranda's frozen treats, from banana splits to root beer floats and hand-dipped ice cream. Kids will love the selection of fun sundaes, loaded with cherries, candy, sprinkles and chocolate.
Click here to download your 2008 Warren County Getaway Guide, complete with a Little Miam Trail map plus information on attractions, shopping and dining.
From the Little Miami Scenic Trail, Lebanon is only 8.2 miles away, by means of the newly completed Countryside Trail. Pass through the "Middletown Junction,” cross over Tuttle Creek and cycle through Harmon Park, all before entering downtown Lebanon, chock full of shops, restaurant and diversions — a perfect place to break after the ride.
Hardy's Bed & Breakfast Suites
212 Wright Ave., Lebanon 45036
513/932-3266 * www.hardysproperties.com
Experience all the comforts of old-fashioned Victorian living at several Hardy's properties all built at or before the turn of the 20th-century. Enjoy fireplaces, marble showers, covered porches and elegant dining rooms.
Double Dip
126 S. Cherry St., Lebanon 45036
513/228-0070
Located in downtown Lebanon at the Countryside Trail head, the Double Dip parlor serves up pizza, sandwiches, and most importantly, homemade ice cream.
Miller's Antique Market
201 S. Broadway St., Lebanon 45036
513/932-8710
Miller's downtown location offers bikers the perfect opportunity to end their day by browsing rustic country furniture, fine porcelain and textiles, as well as period art selections.
The Galleries on Broadway
200 S. Broadway St., Lebanon 45036
513/228-0086
Satisfy your hunger for food and art at this quaint eatery with an attached gallery. The coffee shop stays open along with the gallery, but be certain to get there at lunchtime to try the house special, Millie's Pecan Salad.
Golden Turtle Chocolate Factory
120 S. Broadway St. #120, Lebanon 45036
513/932-1990 * www.goldenturtlechocolatefactory.com
The undisputed source for all things chocolate, Golden Turtle features a variety of chocolates, decadent creams, toffees and caramels. The house speciality is the Texas Tortoise, fine Texas pecans swirled in caramel and drenched with light or dark chocolate.
Click here for more information on the Lebanon Trail.
Click here for the best Warren County hotel package deals.
Great Miami River Recreation Trail offers miles of safe, paved trail with beautiful views of the river and historic markers, shops, restaurants and lodging in several quaint and charming communities including Franklin and Middletown. Even the experienced rider will enjoy all the trail has to offer.
Franklin Murals
Various locations in Downtown Franklin
For more information on the murals, contact the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce at 937/746-8457.
The city of Franklin calls itself the "City of Murals” and once you see these spectacular creations for yourself, you will understand the city's pride in its art. Painted by award-winning muralist and Franklin resident, Eric Henn, the Franklin murals have won three different international sign and graphic arts competitions. A beautiful afternoon trip through Franklin"s downtown district quickly turns into a fascinating look back into the city's history. The murals depict everything from a 19th century park scene to the city"s once proud Great Miami Suspension Bridge.
Harding Museum
302 Park Avenue, Franklin, OH 45005
937/746-8295
Home of World War II Gen. Forrest Harding and Judge Justin Harding of the Nuremburg Trials. Extensive collection of military history, period clothing, antiques, and stunning woodwork. Call for tours.
Log Post Office
River & Fifth Street, Franklin, OH 45005
Commissioned by Thomas Jefferson, the original log structure housed the first post office in the area. Sits along the the bike path with drinking fountain and benches.
Fretware American Guitars
400 S. Main Street, Franklin, OH 45005
937/743-1141
Housed in an historic bank building, this renowned retailer of American fretted instruments has provided equipment for some of Nashville's biggest starts. Many pieces are museum-quality which means collectors and musicians will love this shop.
Pisanello's Pizza
355 S. Main Street, Franklin, OH 45005
937/746-9252
A local favorite with pizza, subs, sandwiches, salads and lunch specials.
JD Legends at Strike Zone Lanes
45 Millard Drive, Franklin, OH 45005
937-746-4950 * www.jdlegends.com
Full-service restaurant and bar with outdoor tiki bar. Largest outdoor concert venue/tiki bar in the state.
Click here for more information on the Great Miami Bike Trail.
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