The trails have become a home for us in many different ways. This first half of the year, I have been training for my very first triathlon. I used to dread running, but as soon as I started exploring trail running as an alternative within my training, I realized how much fun it really is! The constant change in terrain keeps it really engaging, and now I know why so many trail users enjoy trail running in Greater Cincinnati. Many of my trail explorations have been exclusive to mountain biking, and now that I’ve opened up this side of my fitness journey, it gives me a different lens of the trails.
I had the opportunity to meet with Frank DeJulius (Owner) & Jason Scroggs (Training Program Manager) of Fleet Feet to gain some more information on trail running. Runners from across Cincinnati have expressed interest in trail running but shared they didn’t know where to begin. Road running is different from trail running, transitioning from pavement to dirt, which can seem intimidating.
Fleet Feet will be starting an 8-Week Trail Running Program in the Fall, with beginners in mind. Details about this program will be coming soon! Subscribe to their newsletter to get the latest news! Join us for a trail run! Learn more about Trail Running.
Frank has a passion for trails and is a strong advocate of CORA, participating in the CORA Bike & Trail Expo, Trail By The Foot, and years of participation at the Annual Meeting. Thank you, Fleet Feet, for spreading the good news of trails around Greater Cincinnati!
Cincinnati has a love for running, showcasing one of the coolest and toughest marathons in the country, the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon. Ironically enough, Jason and myself both competed in the Flying Pig Relay, where 4 team mates ran portions of the full marathon. He and his team pushed a friend in an adaptive wheelchair throughout each leg so they could experience the marathon for themselves. What an inspiring story!
Greater Cincinnati has a built-in running culture, and trail running is a great extension to the deep passion this area has. We agreed it would be great to provide a beginner’s guide to trail running. I asked Frank and Jason to show me some of the latest gear to help you get started!
Check out Fleet Feet’s curated list of trail running gear for your next adventure!
Disclaimer: Always check the Trail Conditions before your trail run to keep the trails in optimal shape for everyone. Read about Trail Running Etiquette.
I have put together a list of trails to introduce you to trail running. My best recommendation is to watch where you are running to understand the terrain. Roots, rocks, and water features are an exciting part of the trails to keep your run interesting.
These trails are multi-use, so you may experience a mountain biker coming downhill. It’s easiest to step aside and let them come through to avoid injury. Runners & hikers always have the right-of-way, but if you notice the rider climbing a technical section or sending it downhill, their reaction time is limited.
Use Trailforks to navigate the trails during your experience. Don’t have a Trailforks Subscription? Save 30% in your first year by subscribing here. Each subscription donates $5 toward local trails!
Trail Running Trail Recommendations:
Sargeant Park - Whole System
If you are brand new to trail running and want to try it out, start here! With less than 2 miles of trail, this can give you an idea of what to expect for basic trail running terrain. Look for the Paw Paw trees in the summer!
This trail branches off of the Little Miami Trail near 50 West Brewing Company and provides a little off-road adventure toward the Little Miami River.
Devou Park - Incinerator, Bates-Coombs Loop, Back Bowl, Train Surfer
Starting off with a 1-mile incline with switchbacks, roots, rocks, and plenty of shade, this is a great warm up to continue your trail run around Bates-Coombs Loop. Back Bowl is a loop that leads back to Bates-Coombs. Finish the run on Train Surfer, back down Incinerator for a great multi-mile trail run. Enjoy the scenery and benches a plenty!
East Fork State Park - Beginner Loop
This loop is also a great place to start with a little under 3 miles of trail. This trail offers some brief climbs and descents, with light technical obstacles with options to go around them. The view is also breathtaking, so take a break and enjoy it while you’re out there.
Harbin Park - Fleet Feet Favorite 🌟
Known for its winding switchbacks and technical terrain, this trail system is a must-try. Equipped with a great canopy, this is a recommended trail among experienced trail runners, and the variety does not disappoint. All of the turns and varying terrain keep it light-hearted and keep you humble. There are many exit points along the main trail to help you curate your preferred distance.
Mount Airy Forest - Whole System
Packed with nearly 6 miles of trail, the punch is as crisp as the bite. With two trailheads to choose from (Creamy Whip or Shepherd’s Creek), this trail offers a variety of elevation, technical sections, and plenty of benches to take a break. My personal favorite is Cherry On Top, with a variety of inclines and declines.
Mitchell Memorial Forest - A Loop
The A Loop is a 4-mile loop with varying terrain. Expect punchy climbs with roots, rocks, and switchbacks. This is a great trail to push your skills toward longer distances. If you still have wind in your sails, run the B Loop for more technical terrain adventure!
Other great trails to check out are French Park and the Cincinnati Nature Center!
Join Fleet Feet for their Dirt Days Series.
At Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA), we aim to provide pathways for all types of trail adventures. This post is designed for runners and those visiting Greater Cincinnati for trail running adventures. These recommended trails are multi-use, so they are accessible to mountain bikers, hikers, trail runners, and adaptive use adventurers!
Advice: When trail running, notify someone when you are going out for a run You can always share your Strava location with a pal right from the app! Water is a plus to bring with you!
Enjoy your trail running experience, and remember, it’s always fun to progress! Have fun out there!
Check out more trails at coratrails.org/trails