Wasson Way

The Wasson Way currently spans approximately 4.3 miles. It runs from Old Red Bank Road near Ault Park at its eastern end, westward through Xavier University's campus, and extends to Blair Court in Avondale. It traverses neighborhoods including Hyde Park, Oakley, Evanston, and Norwood.

Yes, there are significant plans for future extensions. The trail is projected to eventually span 7.6 miles, extending further west from Blair Court to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Uptown (near the University of Cincinnati), and eastward from Ault Park to Armleder Park, where it will connect to the Lunken Airport Trail and the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Trail.

Absolutely! The Wasson Way is very family-friendly. Its paved, relatively flat terrain is ideal for strollers, young cyclists, and walkers. There are also specific amenities like the Wulsin Play Area along the trail, and it provides access to various schools and local eateries, making it a great option for a family outing.

Yes, the Wasson Way is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome to join their owners on the trail, but it is important to keep them on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users. Please also remember to clean up after your pet.

The Wasson Way is built primarily on a former railroad corridor, which means it offers a relatively flat and accessible route. It is a paved multi-use trail, making it suitable for walking, running, and cycling without significant elevation changes, which contributes to its ease of use for a wide range of abilities.

Parking is available at various trailheads along the Wasson Way. Popular access points include areas near Ault Park, Hyde Park Plaza, and Rookwood Commons & Pavilion. Given its popularity, especially on pleasant days, parking lots can fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended.

The trail offers a mix of urban and natural scenery. Notable features include repurposed railroad bridges, such as the one spanning I-71, and an ArtWorks Electric Avenue mural by Christian Dallas. You'll also find sections with new tree plantings, native flower gardens, and more wooded areas, particularly as you approach Ault Park.

Yes, the Wasson Way is designed for urban connectivity and can be accessed via public transportation. Its route through several Cincinnati neighborhoods means there are various public transport stops within walking distance of different trail sections, making it accessible even without a car.

Yes, the trail provides direct access to various amenities. You'll find it passes through commercial areas like Rookwood Commons & Pavilion and Hyde Park Plaza, offering numerous shops and restaurants. A notable feature is a walk-up window for Busken Bakery located directly along the trail.

While the trail is generally accessible year-round, conditions in winter can vary. The paved surface makes it usable for walking and running even in colder weather, but be mindful of ice or snow, especially after storms. It's always best to check local conditions before heading out during winter.

No, there are no permits required for general use of the Wasson Way trail. It is a public multi-use path, freely accessible to walkers, runners, and cyclists.

The Wasson Way is a crucial component of the larger CROWN (Cincinnati Riding or Walking Network) initiative. It is designed to link up with multiple other trails, and future extensions will connect it to the Lunken Airport Trail and the extensive Little Miami Scenic Trail, creating a broader network for recreation and commuting.