Recreation trails are abundant throughout the Miami Valley thanks to the cooperation and interest of several organizations. MCD developed the first 8-mile loop in downtown Dayton in 1978 at the request of the City of Dayton and Montgomery County. Since then, MCD has partnered with many communities to either build and maintain trails for them or allowed communities and park districts to build trails on MCD land. MCD also applies for grant funds on behalf of communities to expand the trail system.

MCD maintains the following trails:

Montgomery County

• Stillwater River Recreation Trail (1.5 miles) from Siebenthaler Avenue south through DeWeese and Triangle parks.
• Great Miami River Recreation Trail (26.8 miles) on both sides of the Great Miami River from Helena Street south to Stewart Street and also from Stewart Street south on the river's left bank to the Montgomery/Warren county line.
• Mad River Recreation Trail (2.8 miles) from Eastwood Metro Park to its end near the Dayton Career Academy in downtown Dayton and 0.5 miles from Point Park to Webster Street.

Warren County

• Crains Run Park to Baxter Drive at State Route 73 in Franklin (3.7 miles).

Butler County

• Great Miami River Recreation Trail (3.6 miles) from Main-High Street south along the left (east) levee and riverbank to Joyce Park.

In today’s world, the opportunity to recreate in dedicated greenspace is incredibly important, and the benefits are endless.

• Trail use improves health and fitness, reduces stress and improves self-esteem.
• Trails provide safe and enjoyable fun for all ages.
• Trails help us connect with nature and enhance our lives.
• Trails preserve natural land and open spaces.
• Trails enhance property values.
• Trails provide opportunities to use alternate modes of transportation.