Milford, Ohio
- Trail Town dedication
- Oct 27, 2012
- Section
- Williamsburg
- Chapter
- Ohio River Chapter
- County
- Clermont, Hamilton
- Page last updated
- Nov 18, 2025
About Milford, Ohio
Milford holds the distinction of being the first Buckeye Trail Town, dedicated on October 27, 2012. The city is located at the intersection of eight of America’s long-distance trails, which together total over 22,000 miles of hiking and biking opportunities: Buckeye Trail, North Country National Scenic Trail, Sea to Sea Long Distance Hiking Route, Underground Railroad Cycling Route, The Little Miami Scenic Trail, Ohio to Erie Trail Route, and the American Discovery Trail.
History and Geography
Milford was founded in 1797, when Reverend Francis McCormick received a land grant from the U.S. government for his service in the Revolutionary War. By 1811, the area became known as Milford due to the number of mills located on this stretch of the Little Miami River, and because there was a safe fording place. A train station was established in Milford when the Little Miami Railroad was completed in 1841, allowing more visitors to come to Milford. The train line was discontinued in 1969, leading to the formation of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which spans 78 miles.
Why You Should Visit
Milford offers a variety of features including a charming Main Street, hiker-friendly shops and restaurants, attractive architecture, several camping locations, an interesting history, and the beautiful Valley View Nature Preserve. The trail follows sidewalks through town, permitting access to the above-mentioned features. The trail passes some lovely historical homes as it wends its way to the woods and trails of the Valley View Foundation.
Outdoor recreation opportunities
- Hiking: Explore the Buckeye Trail, Valley View Preserve, and the other long-distance trails that connect at “The Junction.”
- Canoeing/Kayaking: Located on the banks of the Little Miami River, Milford is a great location to get on the water. Gear rentals and guidance are available at Roads Rivers and Trails. Public access to the river at Jim Terrell Park.
- Biking: The Little Miami Scenic Trail offers scenic routes for cyclists. Rental bicycles are available.
- Camping: Appalachian Trail-style shelter is available at Jim Terrell Park, with additional campsites at the Valley View Nature Preserve.
Lodging
- Vacation rentals: Numerous houses/rooms are available via Airbnb and Vrbo.
- Hotels: Many chain hotels are available at the intersection of Route 50 and I-275.
Community and tourism links
Events
- Farmers Market: Held every Saturday from May through September.
- Milford Frontier Days: Held each year in June.
- Milford Fall Festival: Held annually in October.
Places to visit
- Roads Rivers and Trails (Buckeye Trail Association Member)
- Historic Main Street →
- Jim Terrell Park →
- Valley View Nature Preserve →
- Promont Museum: Promont is a Victorian mansion built in 1865. As the former home of John M. Pattison, Ohio’s 43rd governor, this home has a vibrant history behind it. The museum is open to the public on the first and third Sundays of the month from 1-4 pm.
- Cincinnati Nature Center: Dedicated to inspiring conservation through personal experiences and education. Explore 1,800 acres and 20 miles of trails through forests, prairies, streams, ponds, and wetlands.
Trail Town news
Amenities
- Public camping area: Shelter is available at Jim Terrell Park, with additional campsites at the Valley View Nature Preserve; permit required at both.
- Access to restrooms: Available at Riverside Park, Jim Terrell Park, at the trailhead into town.
- Shower availability: None at this time.
- Grocery store: Harvest Market, 308 Main Street
- Post office: 100 Castleberry Court, Milford, Ohio, 45150
- Outdoor store: Roads Rivers and Trails provides gear and outdoor essentials.
- Bike pump and/or repair kit: Bishop’s Bicycle is a full-service bicycle shop.
- Food options: Many restaurants are available as the trail goes through the popular Main Street area.
