Middletown Junction, Ohio facts for kids
Middletown Junction is a small, undeveloped area in Warren County, Ohio, United States. It's located on the eastern side of the Little Miami River. This spot was once very important because it was where two different railroads, the Middletown and Cincinnati Railroad and the Little Miami Railroad, connected. Today, the Little Miami Scenic Trail runs right through this historic location.
Contents
A Hub for Railroads and Trails
Middletown Junction was a busy place for trains long ago. It was a key connection point for railroads, allowing trains to switch tracks and travel to different towns. Imagine it like a major highway interchange, but for trains! This allowed goods and people to move easily across the region.
Today, instead of trains, you'll find popular trails for biking and walking. The Little Miami Scenic Trail follows the path of the old Little Miami Railroad. It's a great place for outdoor activities.
Connecting Trails: The Lebanon Countryside Trail
In 2005, a new trail called the Lebanon Countryside Trail was built. This trail connects the town of Lebanon, Ohio to the Little Miami Scenic Trail right here at Middletown Junction. To do this, the trail uses an old railroad bridge that crosses the Little Miami River. This bridge is a cool reminder of the area's railroad past.
Exploring the Junction's Layout
The original railroad junction had a special triangular shape. This design allowed trains to switch onto or off the Little Miami Railroad from any direction. It was a clever way to keep train traffic flowing smoothly.
Today, only the northern part of this triangle has been paved and turned into a bike trail. The southern part is slowly being covered by trees and plants, but you can still see where it used to be if you look closely.
- Location of Middletown Junction: 39°21′54″N 84°14′10″W / 39.36500°N 84.23611°W
Learn More About the Trails
If you want to see photos of the Lebanon Countryside Trail, the old railroad bridge, and even a marker from the original Middletown Junction, you can check out this link:
