Indiana is a great state for cyclists, with a wide variety of bike trails that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride through charming small towns or a challenging workout through scenic natural areas, Indiana has you covered with some of the best bike trails, scenic rides and urban adventures
The state is separated into northern, central, and southern areas, each with its own unique collection of bike trails. From the beautiful Panhandle Pathway in the north to the scenic Ohio River Greenway Bike Trail in the south, there are plenty of options to choose from. So grab your bike and explore the best bike trails in Indiana today!
| # | Trail Name | Length | Surface | Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Erie-Lackawanna Trail | 17 miles | Paved | Hammond, Highland, Griffith, Schererville, Crown Point |
| 2. | Oak Savannah Trail & Prairie Duneland Trail | 19.7 miles | Paved | Griffith, Hobart, Portage, Chesterton |
| 3. | North Judson Erie Trail | 9 miles | Paved | North Judson |
| 4. | Panhandle Pathway | 23 miles | Paved | Winamac, Star City, Thornhope, Royal Center, Kenneth |
| 5. | Nickel Plate Trail | 44 miles | Paved | Rochester, Macy, Birmingham, Deedsville, Denver, Peru, Bunker Hill, Miami, Bennetts Switch, Cassville, Kokomo |
| 6. | Pumpkinvine Trail, Maple City Greenway & Maplehart Trail | 22.75 miles | Paved, small crushed stone area | Elkhart, Dunlap, Goshen, Middlebury, Shipshewana |
| 7. | Rivergreenway Trail | 25 miles | Paved | Fort Wayne, New Haven |
| 8. | Vandalia Trail (part of National Road Heritage Trail) | 11.6 miles | Crushed stone, natural surface, paved | Greencastle, Fillmore, Coatsville, Amo, Plainfield |
| 9. | Big 4 Trail | 10 miles | Crushed stone | Thorntown, Lebanon |
| 10. | Indianapolis Cultural Trail | 8 miles | Paved | Indianapolis |
| 11. | The Monon Trail | 26.56 miles | Paved | Indianapolis, Carmel, Westfield |
| 12. | Cardinal Greenway | 62 miles | Paved | Marion, Gas City, Jonesboro, Gaston, Muncie, Blountsville, Losantville, Economy, Williamsburg, Webster, Richmond |
| 13. | B-Line, Bloomington Rail Trail & Clear Creek Trail | 7.5 miles | Paved, crushed stone | Bloomington |
| 14. | People Trail | 27 miles | Paved, multi-use trail with bicycle route and sidewalk network | Columbus |
| 15. | Milwaukee Road Trail | 10.81 miles | Crushed stone | Bedford |
| 16. | Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage | 6.75 miles | Paved | Evansville |
| 17. | Ohio River Greenway | 7.5 miles | Paved | New Albany, Clarksville, Jeffersonville |
Table of Contents
- Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail: A Scenic and Historic Route for Cyclists
- Exploring the Oak Savannah Trail & Prairie Duneland Bike Trail
- North Judson Erie Trail
- Panhandle Pathway Bike Trail
- Nickel Plate Bike Trail
- Pumpkinvine bike Trail, Maple City Greenway & Maplehart bike Trail
- Rivergreenway Bike Trail
- Vandalia Bike Trail
- Big 4 Trail
- Indianapolis Cultural Trail
- The Monon Trail
- Cardinal Greenway Bike Trail
- B-Line, Bloomington Rail Trail & Clear Creek Trail
- People Trail
- Milwaukee Road Trail
- Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage
- Ohio River Greenway
Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail: A Scenic and Historic Route for Cyclists
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The Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Indiana. The trail stretches for 17.7 miles and runs through Lake County, Indiana. It is a rail-trail that was converted from a former Erie Lackawanna Railroad track and right-of-way. The trail is part of a national effort to promote alternative modes of transportation, including biking and hiking.
The Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail offers a scenic and enjoyable experience for bikers, inline skaters, and walkers. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for people of all ages and skill levels. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including forests, wetlands, and wildlife.
The trail also features rest areas with shelters and benches for visitors to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
Whether you are looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout, the Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail has something for everyone. The trail is a great way to explore the beauty of Indiana’s natural landscape and enjoy the outdoors. So, grab your bike, put on your helmet, and hit the trail for a fun and memorable adventure!
Trail Description
The Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail is 17.7 miles long, making it a great option for a longer ride or a leisurely walk. The trail is considered an easy route, with a smooth asphalt surface that is well-maintained. The trail is mostly flat, with a few gentle inclines and declines, making it accessible to riders and walkers of all skill levels.
Along the trail, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including wooded areas and open fields. The trail also passes through the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve, where visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including great blue herons, bald eagles, wild turkeys, deer, and rabbits.
Overall, the Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail is a great option for visitors looking for a peaceful and scenic ride or walk through Lake County, Indiana.
Trailhead Locations
The Erie-Lackawanna Bike Trail has two trailheads, one at Sibley Street near State Street in Hammond and the other at W. Summit Street at N. West Street in Crown Point. There are parking lots at both trailheads, making it easy for visitors to park their cars and start their ride or walk.
Exploring the Oak Savannah Trail & Prairie Duneland Bike Trail
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The Oak Savannah Trail and Prairie Duneland Trail are two of the best trails in Indiana for biking, hiking, and inline skating. These trails offer a variety of terrain and scenery, making them a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Oak Savannah Trail is a 9.5-mile trail that runs through Lake and Porter counties, while the Prairie Duneland Trail is a 10-mile trail that runs through Porter County. Both trails are part of the Northwest Indiana Regional Greenways and Blueways system, which aims to connect communities and natural areas through a network of trails and waterways.
The Oak Savannah Trail is a former railroad corridor that has been converted into a paved trail. The trail runs through a mix of urban and rural areas, and offers views of wetlands, woodlands, and prairies.
The Prairie Duneland Trail, on the other hand, is a crushed limestone trail that runs through the Indiana Dunes National Park. The trail offers views of sand dunes, beaches, and Lake Michigan. Both trails are relatively flat and easy to navigate, making them suitable for all skill levels.
Overview of Oak Savannah Trail
The Oak Savannah Trail is a popular rail-trail located in Indiana. The trail spans 9.5 miles and runs through Lake and Porter counties, connecting the Erie Lackawanna Trail at 739 S Arbogast Ave in Griffith to the Prairie Duneland Trail at 4 Hobart Rd in Hobart. The trail surface is mostly asphalt, making it suitable for a variety of activities such as biking, inline skating, walking, and fishing.
One of the unique features of the Oak Savannah Trail is the scenic views it offers. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, prairies, and oak savannas, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Indiana. The trail is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for individuals with disabilities.
The Oak Savannah Trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with clear signage and markers throughout. There are several parking areas along the trail, including at Oak Ridge Prairie County Park in Griffith, where visitors can access the western trailhead.
The trail is also conveniently located near several cities and other rail trails, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Overview of Prairie Duneland Bike Trail
The Prairie Duneland Bike Trail is a popular rail trail that links several cities and rail trails together. It is located in Indiana and is a part of the Indiana Dunes National Park. The trail is 22.4 miles round trip and takes approximately 2 hours to ride. This trail has a total elevation gain of 30 feet, an average grade of 0%, and a maximum grade of 0%.
The western trailhead of the Prairie Duneland Bike Trail is located in downtown Hobart and connects to the Oak Savannah Bike Trail.
The trail is a paved asphalt trail that is wheelchair accessible and suitable for biking, inline skating, fishing, and walking. The trail is also popular for cross-country skiing during the winter months.
The Prairie Duneland Bike Trail passes through several parks and natural areas, including the Hobart Marsh Wetlands Nature Preserve, which features a boardwalk and observation deck for viewing wildlife. This trail also passes through the Indiana Dunes State Park, which is home to several hiking trails, beaches, and sand dunes.
The trail is well-maintained and features several amenities, including restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas. The trail is also well-marked with signs and maps to help guide riders. Trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Indiana.
North Judson Erie Trail
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If you’re looking for a beautiful and peaceful bike ride in Indiana, you can’t go wrong with the North Judson Erie Trail. This 9-mile paved trail takes you through some of the most scenic areas of North Judson, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely ride or a family outing.
The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, the North Judson Erie Trail is definitely worth checking out. So grab your bike and hit the trail today!
Panhandle Pathway Bike Trail
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The Panhandle Pathway Trail is an excellent option if you’re searching for a long bike ride that will take you through some of Indianas most delightful small towns.
This 23-mile paved trail will lead you through Winamac, Star City, Thornhope, Royal Center, and Kenneth, where you’ll have numerous opportunities to learn about local history and immerse yourself in the culture.
This well-maintained trail provides a smooth ride, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels of experience. Additionally, you’ll be able to appreciate stunning natural scenery and stop at several locations along the way to take a break. So, if you’re seeking a fun and picturesque bike ride, don’t miss the chance to explore the Panhandle Pathway Bike Trail!
Nickel Plate Bike Trail
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Looking for an all-around bike trail? The Nickel Plate Bike Trail is the perfect pick for you! Spanning 44 miles, this paved trail will lead you through some of Indiana’s most picturesque areas, including Rochester, Macy, Birmingham, Deedsville, Denver, Peru, Bunker Hill, Miami, Bennetts Switch, Cassville, and Kokomo.
As you ride, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, visit charming small towns, and discover numerous places to rest and recharge. With its well-maintained and smooth surface, this trail caters to cyclists of all levels of experience.
So, if you’re up for an exciting and demanding bike ride, make sure to explore the Nickel Plate Bike Trail!
Pumpkinvine bike Trail, Maple City Greenway & Maplehart bike Trail
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Are you searching for a bike trail that guides you through some of Indiana’s most delightful small towns? Look no further than the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail, Maple City Greenway, and Maplehart Bike Trail!
This 22.75-mile paved trail travels through Elkhart, Dunlap, Goshen, Middlebury, and Shipshewana, providing ample chances to discover the local culture and history. The trail comprises a blend of paved and small crushed stone areas, accommodating cyclists of all abilities.
As you ride along, you’ll be greeted with awe-inspiring natural views, charming small towns, and numerous rest areas to take a break. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling or a leisurely bike ride, the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail, Maple City Greenway, and Maplehart Bike Trail cater to all preferences.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore Indiana’s picturesque small towns. Make sure to check out these three trails and add them to your biking itinerary!
Rivergreenway Bike Trail
If you’re looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Fort Wayne and New Haven, the Rivergreenway Bike Trail is definitely worth checking out! This 25-mile paved trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history, as well as stunning natural scenery.
The trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming small towns, historic landmarks, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. So if you’re looking for a fun and scenic bike ride, be sure to check out the Rivergreenway Bike Trail!
Vandalia Bike Trail
If you’re searching for a bike trail that showcases some of Indiana’s most picturesque areas, the Vandalia Trail is an excellent option! Spanning 11.6 miles, this trail comprises a blend of crushed stone, natural surface, and paved segments, making it ideal for cyclists of all proficiencies.
The Vandalia Bike Trail travels through several towns, including Greencastle, Fillmore, Coatsville, Amo, and Plainfield, presenting numerous chances to explore the local culture and history. As you venture on, you’ll encounter stunning natural views, captivating small towns, and several rest areas to take a break.
Whether you’re seeking an enjoyable or a challenging bike ride, the Vandalia Bike Trail caters to all preferences. Make sure to add this trail to your itinerary if you’re looking for a thrilling and fulfilling biking experience!
Big 4 Trail
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Looking for a bike trail that combines history and natural beauty? The Big 4 Bike Trail is a great choice! This 11.6-mile crushed stone trail takes you through some of the most picturesque areas of Thorntown and Lebanon, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history.
The trail follows the route of the former Big Four Railroad, which played an important role in the development of the area. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. So if you’re looking for a fun and educational bike ride, be sure to check out the Big 4 Bike Trail!
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
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If you’re looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most culturally rich areas of Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Cultural Bike Trail is a great choice! This 8-mile paved trail winds its way through some of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in the city, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history.
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning public art installations, charming small businesses, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. The trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels.
So if you’re looking for a fun and educational bike ride, be sure to check out the Indianapolis Cultural Bike Trail!
The Monon Trail
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Looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful and vibrant areas of Indianapolis, Carmel, and Westfield? The Monon Trail is a great choice! This 26.56-mile paved trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history, as well as stunning natural scenery.
Along the way, you’ll encounter charming small towns, historic landmarks, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. The trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout, the Monon Bike Trail has something for everyone. So grab your bike and hit the trail today!
Cardinal Greenway Bike Trail
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If you’re looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Indiana, the Cardinal Greenway Trail is a great choice! This 62-mile paved trail winds its way through Marion, Gas City, Jonesboro, Gaston, Muncie, Blountsville, Losantville, Economy, Williamsburg, Webster, and Richmond, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history.
This trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. So if you’re looking for a fun and challenging bike ride, be sure to check out the Cardinal Greenway Bike Trail!
B-Line, Bloomington Rail Trail & Clear Creek Trail
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Looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most charming and vibrant areas of Bloomington? The B-Line, Bloomington Rail Trail, and Clear Creek Trail are a great choice! These trails offer a mix of paved and crushed stone surfaces, making them perfect for cyclists of all skill levels.
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery, charming small businesses, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. Trails wind their way through some of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in Bloomington, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history. So if you’re looking for a fun and scenic bike ride, be sure to check out the B-Line, Bloomington Rail Trail, and Clear Creek Trail!
People Trail
If you’re looking for a bike trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of Columbus, the People Trail is a great choice! This 27-mile paved trail offers a multi-use trail with bicycle routes and sidewalk networks, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels.
As you ride, you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. The trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for a leisurely ride or a family outing. So if you’re looking for a fun and scenic bike ride, be sure to check out the People Trail!
Milwaukee Road Trail
Are you seeking a bike trail that showcases some of the most beautiful areas of Bedford? Look no further than the Milwaukee Road Trail! Spanning 10.81-mile this trail with crushed stone surface offers abundant opportunities to explore the local history, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery.
As you ride along, you’ll encounter captivating small towns, historic landmarks, and plenty of rest areas to take a break. The Milwaukee Road Trail is well-kept and delivers a smooth ride, catering to cyclists of all levels of expertise.
Whether you prefer a relaxed journey or an intense workout, the Milwaukee Road Trail has something for you. Don’t delay; get on your bike and begin your adventure on this amazing trail today!
Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage
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If you’re looking for a bike trail that offers a mix of natural beauty and urban charm, the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage in Evansville is definitely worth checking out! This 6.75-mile paved trail winds its way through the heart of the city, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history.
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning natural scenery, charming small businesses, and plenty of places to stop and take a break. The trail is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels.
So if you’re looking for a fun and scenic bike ride in the heart of Evansville, be sure to check out the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage!
Ohio River Greenway
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Looking for a cycling path that connects two states and presents magnificent views of a river? Then the Ohio River Greenway Bike Trail should be on your radar!
This 7.5-mile paved trail meanders through New Albany, Clarksville, and Jeffersonville and offers numerous chances to delve into the local history and culture. As you journey along the route, you’ll discover quaint towns, landmarks steeped in history, and various rest stops.
The Ohio River Greenway is a smooth path that provides stunning panoramas of the Ohio River, ideal for cyclists of all levels of expertise.
Furthermore, the Big 4 Bridge links the Ohio River Greenway to the Riverwalk in Louisville, KY, opening up more avenues for exploration. Therefore, if you’re seeking a fun and picturesque bike ride that spans two states, make sure to include the Ohio River Greenway Bike Trail in your plans!
