Cincinnati's Emerging Gem: A Deep Dive into The New Off-Road Bike Trail

Built and opened in July 2019 by the Cincinnati Off Road Association (CORA), this newly introduced trail has rapidly attracted the attention of the city's mountain biking community. Though incomplete, its existing 3.9-mile loop has the potential to redefine off-road biking in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Getting There

For those eager to explore, there are two parking options:

• South lot on West Fork Road
• North lot off of Shephard’s Creek Road

What to Expect on the Trail

The Terrain

The trail starts off benign but don't let that fool you; its terrain transforms into a test of skill and grit, especially if you're not proficient in downhill cornering. The halfway point of the loop marks the highest elevation, from which the terrain either ascends in a gentle, rolling climb or presents a steep incline, depending on your direction.

Features and Challenges

• Downhill Cornering: The trail possesses sharp turns that require expertise in downhill cornering.
• Rolling Climbs: Be prepared to pedal hard and steady, especially if you decide to ascend towards the peak of the trail.
• Opportunities for Air: For those keen on a bit of thrill, the trail includes several lines perfect for catching some air.
• Smooth Surface: The trail overall maintains a fairly smooth surface, making it suitable for riders who prioritize speed over technical features.

Skill Level and Future Prospects

Rated as intermediate, the existing segment offers a sturdy challenge, even for those seasoned in mountain biking. It's not just about the physical condition but also your technical skills in cornering and handling downhill speeds. The trail seems to be designed with future advancements in mind, and here's hoping that the upcoming segments introduce more technical features to satisfy the itch for a more complex ride.

Crowd and Accessibility

The trail is new and thus far, has attracted a moderate level of footfall. It's mostly frequented by mountain bikers who are keen to explore new grounds, and its intermediate level means it's not teeming with beginners. Keep an eye on CORA's updates for real-time trail conditions to ensure the best riding experience.

Final Thoughts

This trail, with its current 3.9-mile loop, already provides a good blend of features that can entertain and challenge riders at the intermediate level. As more segments are completed, this has the potential to be the go-to trail system in Cincinnati for a comprehensive biking experience, encompassing both physical and technical elements of mountain biking.Come ride the loops and be part of Cincinnati's emerging biking story.