Discover Miami: Nature Trails and History

A 37-foot waterfall and a natural limestone arch define the Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area along Greenville Creek. The surrounding landscapes also reveal different sides of a trip to Miami: trails pass through prairie, forest and wetlands, while museums and historic sites explore aviation and regional history. You can combine nature and culture according to the focus of your stay.

Trails, Water and Landscapes

Charleston Falls Preserve encompasses more than 216 acres of prairie and forest. Its waterfall drops 37 feet before the water continues toward the Great Miami River. More than three miles of trails pass through Redbud Valley and the Thorny Badlands. These landscapes and the waterfall are among the preserve’s defining features.

Different trail experiences come together at Lost Creek Reserve: its 5.75 miles of trails pass fields, wooded areas and Lost Creek. The reserve covers 457 acres. It is also home to Historic Knoop Homestead, whose history spans more than 200 years and five generations of the Knoop family. Visitors looking to combine nature and history can find both within the same reserve.

Stillwater Prairie Reserve lies along the scenic Stillwater River. Its loop trail passes through fields, forest, marsh habitats and brushland. The reserve covers 309 acres and offers 5.69 miles of trails. At Rangeline Road Access, visitors can reach the river for canoeing and kayaking. You can plan to explore the area on foot or as part of a paddling trip.

Along Greenville Creek, the Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area features a 20-foot cascade waterfall and a natural limestone arch. Its trails follow the river, pass through prairie and run by the remains of a former electric mill; together, they cover nearly a mile. For a different way to get active, the 32-mile Great Miami River Recreational Trail runs through Miami County. It is suitable for biking, running and walking. The two trail options differ in length and in whether the focus is on the river or a longer route.

Brukner Nature Center also brings together different habitats: its six miles of nature trails pass through forest, wetlands and prairie. The trails are open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. Visitors can see live wildlife exhibits, the Tree-Top Bird Vista and wildlife art displays in the Interpretive Building. More than 50 wildlife ambassadors represent native Ohio species that can no longer survive in the wild.

Aviation and Regional History

The WACO Air Museum in Troy preserves the legacy of the Weaver Aircraft Company, headquartered in Troy from 1923 through the 1960s. A self-guided audio tour highlights sites associated with the WACO Aircraft Company. The museum also offers hands-on educational programs, such as building and flying hot-air balloons, kites, model airplanes, paper rockets and hovercraft. Group tours can be arranged through the WACO Air Museum and Learning Center. The annual Fly-In is a September tradition in Troy.

At Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, visitors can experience the home and farm of John Johnston as they appeared in 1829. Exhibits trace both the history of Ohio’s Eastern Woodland Indians and that of the Pickawillany village site. Visitors can also take a ride on the General Harrison of Piqua, a 70-foot replica canal boat guided by costumed interpreters. The visit combines historic buildings and exhibits with a canal boat ride.

Another historic site is Iddings Log House at Brukner Nature Center. Built in 1804, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Along with the wildlife exhibits and nature trails, it gives visitors several different ways to explore the center.

Market Dates and Trip Planning

In Troy, the Cherry Street Farmer’s Market offers fresh local produce, bread, artisan cheese, maple syrup, honey, baked goods and locally raised meat. Its published seasonal schedule lists market dates every second Saturday from June through September; check the specific market dates before your trip. Alongside nature and history, a seasonal market visit offers another distinct reason to travel.

To plan your trip, first decide whether you’d rather spend your time on trails and river landscapes, aviation history or historic exhibits. Trail lengths range from nearly a mile at Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area to 5.75 miles at Lost Creek Reserve; the Great Miami River Recreational Trail offers a 32-mile route for biking, running and walking.

Explore more destinations: Troy, Tipp City, Covington, Fairfield, Stark, Sandusky County, Greene, Delaware County.

For the broader travel overview: Ohio.