Distance racing in 2020 has definitely been different than we all imagined it would be. Traditional races were canceled early this year, but luckily virtual races are popping up everywhere for the fall-racing season. Virtual racing means you can run a one-mile course up to a full marathon right in your own neighborhood – and still get the racing credit (and swag)! While you may not have the crowds of runners running next to you, or the people on the side cheering you on, the logistics are much easier – all you have to do is run right out your door and go!
Cincinnati’s famous Flying Pig Marathon will be holding virtual events for participants officially the second weekend in October, but you have the full month to complete your race virtually. So, that means lots of fun fall running for all of us involved!
I’m typically a road runner. I like to roll through Downtown Lebanon and Historic Floraville and soak up the charm of the town and all of the amazing historic homes on my typical runs, but when training for a half-marathon or marathon, you need to get creative with where you can pick up your miles, so I head to the trails.
Lebanon has a nice variety of trails that are perfect for your fall runs or hikes alike:
Miller Ecological Park
The park is located just north of downtown and it is lovely spot to explore with three miles of natural and gravel trails. Be careful, though – you may get easily distracted by all the nature and wildlife (as the name hints) so you may want to make this training run a fartlek or interval run – because you will definitely be stopping along the way to enjoy the sights!
The Countryside YMCA Trail (website)
This trail consists officially of 8.5 miles of paved trail that runs from Downtown Lebanon to South Lebanon and connects with the Little Miami Scenic Trail. When you are into your 20+ mile training runs, this is a good place to log those miles! You can see the charm of Downtown Lebanon and lots of wide open country views once you pass the YMCA. You’ll see lots of runners, bikers and wildlife on this trail.
Armco Park
Located about four miles outside of Lebanon, this running spot is well worth the drive. The park has something for all sports lovers, but is a pleasure to run in. It has paved roads and nature trails, so you can suit your running mood! With a lake being central focus, you also get some pretty great views.
Turtlecreek Nature Preserve Nature Trail
This is another nice nature trail accessible right from downtown (right behind Berry Intermediate School). It runs along several creeks and is nicely maintained. This is a lovely wooded trail that really lets you get in to nature without ever leaving town!
Colonial Park South
A fun park in Lebanon, Colonial Park actually has four entrances. I like to hop on behind the post office, because it gets you to the swinging bridge quickly! Wooded with creek views, this is a nice trail system where you can experience nature right in town.
Harmon Park
This fun park is right in town – it’s located along Turtle Creek and the Countryside YMCA Trail. It has a nicely shaded graveled trail that is about a mile long with some nice rolling hills and is a nice detour from the trail or road running from town. It also has tennis courts and a golf course, so you can really get your play on!
If you are looking for Lebanon trails for running, walking, hiking, we have them all right in our own backyard. Enjoy!
