A collaborative vision to connect Boone, Campbell, and Kenton Counties through a unified network of paved and natural surface trails that expand mobility, recreation, and economic growth in Northern Kentucky.

The NKY Regional Trails Plan is a bold effort to connect Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties through a unified network of paved and natural surface trails. Led by Tri-State Trails and the Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA), the plan brings together over 45 local governments, business leaders, and community stakeholders to create a shared vision for a regional Braided Trail Network, a combination of paved multi-use paths and natural surface trails for hiking and mountain biking.

Inspired by OneNKY’s vision, the plan sparks momentum across Northern Kentucky by coordinating planning efforts, advancing cross-jurisdictional trail projects, and laying the groundwork for future funding and construction. By aligning with the success of peer cities like Bentonville, Boulder, and Knoxville, Northern Kentucky has a unique opportunity to leverage its outdoor assets to attract visitors, talent, and investment.

In addition to leveraging outdoor recreation as an economic driver, the plan focuses on expanding safe, equitable transportation options and increasing opportunities for walking and biking as everyday modes of travel. Tri-State Trails and CORA are working closely with regional partners to map existing trails, identify key opportunities, and package top-priority corridors into signature projects with clear funding and implementation strategies.

The NKY Regional Trails Plan envisions a safe, connected trail network that links communities, supports active transportation and recreation, and enhances quality of life across Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties. By prioritizing equity, health, and economic opportunity, the plan aims to make trails essential infrastructure for all.

The project team developed a StoryMap for the NKY Regional Trails Plan to present proposed trail connections. It highlights existing and funded trails, shows proposed paved multi-use trails, and identifies eight natural surface trail focus areas. Use the instructions below to navigate the StoryMap. After exploring, please take our online survey to share your feedback.

Enhance Bicycle Connectivity Across Northern Kentucky: Improve walking and biking options between communities that have been divided by highways and railroads

Link Trails, Parks, and Recreational Assets: Connect residential neighborhoods to local parks and regional greenspaces like Devou Park, England Idlewild Park, Big Bone Lick State Park, and AJ Jolly Park

Spur Economic Development: Increase property values and drive development along the trail network, Attract visitors and generate tourism spending, Connect suburban communities to the urban core

Expand Transportation Opportunities For All Ages and Abilities: Create safe paths for walking, running, and biking that are separated from car traffic, Support a multi-modal transportation network that is less reliant on cars

Improve Public Health: Make active lifestyles more accessible and convenient to residents, Decrease rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other preventable illnesses, Increase interaction with nature to restore mental health

Increase Transportation Equity: Provide another safe travel option for individuals without a car, Connect trails to historically underserved communities

Promote Environmental Sustainability: Reduce emissions from car travel and improve air quality, Make it easier for residents to live car-light or car-free

Attract and Retain Talent: Help companies secure talented professionals to the region, Create a world class amenity that puts Northern Kentucky on the map