Ride the River.
Explore Two Towns.
The River Cities Bike Share connects downtown Aurora and downtown Lawrenceburg along the Dearborn Trail — six miles of paved path that hugs the Ohio River the whole way. Unlock a bike for $3 and spend part of your day enjoying the beauty of riding along this scenic path.
A Ride Worth the Trip
Six miles. Two river towns. One trail that runs right along the Ohio.
The Dearborn Trail is one of those places that earns a second trip. It’s shaded, paved, and peaceful in a way that’s hard to find closer to the city. The River Cities Bike Share makes it easy to get on the trail without any planning headaches — no rack to load, no equipment to haul. Just download an app, walk up to a station, and you’re rolling.
Start in downtown Aurora and explore the riverfront storefronts before you head out. Or pick up a bike at the Dog Park station and follow the trail west toward Lawrenceburg, where a cold drink and a good meal are waiting on the other end. Either way, a few hours on this trail is all it takes to have you feeling active and reconnected with the great outdoors!
Bikes are new Shimano 7-speed with rear baskets — no gear required.
Pick Up a Bike
Four stations along the trail. Grab one wherever it makes sense for you.
Downtown Aurora
George Street, across from the City Building
The best starting point if you want to explore Aurora on foot before you ride. Grab a coffee at Spire Book & Coffee Co. on 3rd Street, poke around the shops on Main Street, then pick up a bike and head for the trail. The George Street Bridge is steps away — cross it and you’re already on the path toward Lawrenceburg.
Great for: combining a ride with a morning in downtown Aurora
Dearborn Trail — Dog Park
End of Sunnyside Ave off US 50
This is the most scenic pickup spot on the route. You’re right at the river from the moment you clip in. Spacious parking lot, public restrooms, and a shaded gazebo if you want to sit for a minute before or after your ride. It’s also a relaxed spot to bring the kids — the dog park next door keeps things lively.
Great for: families, first-timers, anyone who wants to start right on the water
Downtown Lawrenceburg — Levee Access
End of Walnut Street, outside Ivy Tech Campus
The best starting point if you want to ride the full trail. Free garage parking right there — pull in, lock up the car, and go. Before you clip in, Funny Farm Coffee Co. is a short walk down East High Street. Head up from the station to the levee and you’re rewarded immediately: a wide-open view of the Ohio River before the trail carries you east toward Aurora. After the ride, Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria is right downtown for a casual lunch or early dinner.
Great for: day trippers, trail riders aiming to cover the full route to Aurora
Downtown Lawrenceburg — DoubleTree
End of Walnut Street, next to the DoubleTree by Hilton
The overnight option. If you’re staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton, the station is literally steps from the lobby — no car, no planning, just walk out and ride. Head downhill into downtown Lawrenceburg first to get your bearings, then follow the trail west toward Aurora when you’re ready. When you’re back, Proof 124 on Short Street is a short walk from the hotel and the right way to end a day on the water.
Great for: overnight guests, anyone pairing a ride with dinner in Lawrenceburg
Renting Is Simple
Step 1: Download the App
Grab the On Bike Share app on your phone before you head to the trail. It’s free. When you’re at a station, open the app, tap “Available Bikes,” and select the one you want to rent.Step 2: Unlock and Ride
The bike unlocks from the rack electronically once you confirm payment in the app. Toss your bag in the rear basket and go. The trail is well-marked and the river keeps you oriented the whole way.Step 3: Return to Your Starting Station
Bikes must go back to the same station where you checked out. Dock the bike firmly, then tap “End Ride” in the app before you walk away — if you skip that step, the rental clock keeps running.Pricing callout:
$3 first hour | $2 each additional hour One bike per app account. No reservations needed.While You’re Out There
The trail puts you right in the middle of two towns worth exploring. Here’s how to make a full day of it.
In Aurora:
Lock up your bike and walk a few blocks to Hillforest Victorian House Museum on 5th Street — a National Historic Landmark and one of the best-preserved 1855 Italian Renaissance mansions in the Midwest. It’s a legitimate stop, not just a detour. If you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, the Aurora Farmers Market is worth folding into your morning before or after your ride.In Lawrenceburg:
If you want to eat well after a ride, Nourish Kitchen + Market on Walnut Street is the right stop — farm-to-table bowls and grab-and-go meals made with care. Worth planning around: their grab-and-go fridge is open Tuesday–Friday 11am–3pm and Saturday 10am–2pm.If you’re staying into the evening, Liberty Theater on Walnut Street is the move. It’s a 130-year-old music hall that’s been brought back as a live music and events venue — shows most weekends, a full kitchen, and a whiskey bar that fits the town’s nickname. Check their calendar before you come and you might time a ride with a show.
Trail Map
The Dearborn Trail runs approximately 3.5 miles between the Aurora Dog Park station and the Downtown Lawrenceburg station. The path is paved, mostly shaded, and follows the Ohio River closely the entire way. Restrooms and water are available at the Dog Park station.
Ready to Ride?
Pack light, download the app before you leave, and head for the river. The trail will handle the rest.