Great Parks has started construction on new mountain biking features at Mitchell Memorial Forest aimed at helping riders of all skill levels develop their riding abilities.
The $160,000 project includes a skills course near the trailhead and a skills loop along the first section of the park’s existing 8-mile mountain bike trail – the first official trail of its kind in Hamilton County. These new sections will feature pump-style elements such as small rises and berms designed to help riders build momentum and improve bike control.
Situated near the trailhead, the skills area allows cyclists to easily add it to their route.
“Mitchell Memorial Forest is already a regional mountain biking hub, and these additions will invite beginners to give the sport a try and will also welcome experienced riders to sharpen their skills,” said Todd Palmeter, CEO of Great Parks.
Located at 5401 Zion Road in Cleves, Mitchell Memorial Forest covers 1,625 acres and offers more than eight miles of mountain bike trails. The park also features a 1-mile Wood Duck nature trail, a catch-and-release fishing pond, playgrounds, picnic areas and a reservable group camp. Pets and motor vehicles are not allowed on the mountain bike trails.
This latest project benefitted from a $68,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as well as funding from a voter-approved levy from 2021.
The improvements respond to community input gathered through the Great Parks Comprehensive Master Plan, which prioritized expanding and enhancing trails. When finished, these additions will join Great Parks’ 84 miles of trails across Hamilton County.
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