While it is known for its beautiful bike trail that runs along the Little Miami River, Loveland has other beautiful secrets waiting to be found within its forestry. The Little Miami River marks the territory of what used to belong to the Miami tribes and still is considered a special place for many.
Aside from the popular Nisbet Park and Amphitheater near the bike trail, Loveland has many other natural vistas, such as the East and West Loveland Nature Preserves. Although home to many native species such as pileated woodpeckers and flowering dogwood, these trails aren’t as well known across Loveland as one would expect.
The East Loveland Nature Preserve itself spans 110 acres of forest and wetlands, housing a thriving ecosystem of aquatic plants, animals, bugs, birds, and fish. In this area, numerous endangered species can be spotted such as the Indiana bat and the northern riffleshell mussel. The path throughout this park lies near O’Bannon Creek, which runs into the Little Miami River.
Located right outside the training grounds for Loveland’s Fire Department team, the entrance to the East Loveland Nature Preserve is found at 277 E. Loveland Ave., Loveland, OH 45140. There is a surplus of parking available near the footbridge that leads into the park. As somewhat of a hidden gem for locals, this nature preserve is truly a home for many.
Another less known preserve, the West Loveland Nature Preserve, is a smaller, 26.5 acre area that lies behind the Glen Lake and Hidden Creek subdivisions. As “Hidden Creek” suggests, this preserve runs along a small creek that attracts dragonflies, frogs, snakes, and smaller fish. Lucky trail lovers have even spotted bald eagles in this area. As one of the most diverse areas in Loveland, sitting in these woods offers a definitive opportunity to meet a few deer, or at night a rare chance to see a few coyotes!
This preserve actually withholds 4 entrance points. The official entrance is found at 2008 W Loveland Ave., Loveland, OH 45140 on McKinney Road. There is a large gravel lot for parking. The next two entrances are found in Hidden Creek. Towards the back of Hidden Creek, there are two entrance points that connect in a loop. One is found on White Chapel Lane and the other is found on Stratford Ct. The last one is found in Glen Lake literally on Glen Lake Road, though there is no parking for those who drive.
Even as a short hike, or an energizing walk for doglovers and their pets, these nature preserves offer a special place for those who need to relax and connect with nature. Humans were made to adventure, explore, and discover, so regularly stimulating one’s brain with these sorts of unique experiences can be one of the most rewarding forms of healing.
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