Best Bike Trails Around Indiana
Favorite Trails for Road, Gravel, and Mountain Biking Around Indianapolis and Central Indiana
Central Indiana is a hidden gem for cyclists, offering an impressive variety of trails for every kind of rider. Whether you're into road cycling, gravel grinding, or mountain biking, this region has something to suit your needs. From scenic routes along rivers to challenging off-road adventures, cyclists can enjoy the beauty of Indiana’s landscape while getting in a good workout. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best bicycle trails around Indianapolis and Central Indiana, with options for road cyclists, gravel riders, and mountain bikers.
Road Cycling and Paved Trails
For road cyclists, Central Indiana has a variety of paved paths and scenic roads and that provide both leisurely rides and challenging routes. These trails often take riders through the state's picturesque countryside, small towns, and vibrant urban areas.
Monon Trail
Distance: 25+ miles
Location: Indianapolis to Sheridan, Indiana
Surface: Paved
Difficulty: Easy
Description: The Monon Trail is one of Central Indiana’s most popular and iconic cycling routes. Stretching from Indianapolis to Sheridan, this extensive paved trail offers a mix of urban and suburban riding. Starting in downtown Indianapolis, the trail takes cyclists through scenic parks, neighborhoods, and past iconic landmarks. It’s a favorite for recreational riders, but can also provide a good challenge for those looking to push their limits. The Monon is a key part of Indianapolis' growing network of multi-use trails and offers convenient access for cyclists looking to explore the city and beyond.
B&O Trail
Distance: 8 miles (expandable through additional connectors)
Location: Avon/Brownsburg, Hendricks County, Indiana
Surface: Paved
Difficulty: Easy
Description: The B&O Trail offers another excellent route for cyclists within Indianapolis. This relatively short trail is part of a broader system of trails that connect different parts of the city. Ideal for both commuting and leisure rides, it’s a great way to see more urban areas while still having access to open green spaces.
Canal Towpath
Distance: 7 miles
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
Surface: Paved and light gravel
Difficulty: Easy
Description: The Canal Towpath in Indianapolis offers a peaceful and scenic route that stretches along the historic Central Canal, making it a perfect spot for cyclists and pedestrians alike. This path is mostly flat and offers a smooth, easy ride for cyclists of all skill levels. The towpath originally served as a route for horses pulling canal boats in the 19th century, and today it provides an enjoyable way for visitors to experience the city's natural beauty and history. The trail features a combination of paved and gravel sections, making it a versatile route for both road cyclists and those on gravel bikes. Riders can enjoy views of downtown Indianapolis while passing through tranquil parks, including White River State Park and the Indianapolis Zoo. The path also passes by landmarks such as the NCAA Hall of Champions and the Indiana State Museum, providing a mix of nature and culture along the way. The route brings you into Downtown Indianapolis, with just a walk to the major sports venues of Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Carroll Stadium, Kuntz Stadium, and Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, Indy Eleven, Indianapolis AlleyCats, and Indianapolis Indians respectively.
Gravel Bike Trails
For those who enjoy gravel cycling, Central Indiana is home to several trails that provide an off-the-beaten-path experience. Gravel trails often offer a mix of dirt roads, lightly trafficked highways, and picturesque rural landscapes.
Brown County State Park
Distance: 10-50 miles (varies by route)
Location: Nashville, Indiana
Surface: Gravel, dirt, and paved roads
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Description: Brown County State Park is a top destination for gravel cyclists looking for a challenge. The park features a variety of gravel routes that wind through the dense forests, hills, and ridgelines of Southern Indiana, adjacent to Bloomington, home of Indiana University, and close to the Hoosier National Forest, another expansive cycling destination. Cyclists can customize their routes with distances ranging from shorter 10-mile loops to much longer rides, and the rugged terrain offers a real test for those seeking an adventure. The park also hosts several organized gravel rides throughout the year, including the Gravel Grovel, a popular annual event produced by Do INdiana Off-road (D.IN.O).
Hoosier National Forest
Distance: Variable
Location: Near French Lick, Indiana
Surface: Gravel, dirt, and country roads
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Description: Hoosier National Forest, located in southern Indiana, offers some fantastic gravel biking opportunities, with its diverse landscapes, rolling hills, and scenic views making it a great destination for gravel cyclists. The forest covers over 200,000 acres of rugged terrain, featuring a mix of forested trails, gravel roads, and winding paths through picturesque valleys, ridges, and waterways. Gravel bike riders in Hoosier National Forest can enjoy a variety of routes that range in difficulty, from easy, accessible gravel roads to more challenging, technical routes with steep climbs and rougher terrain. Riders will encounter an array of landscapes, including dense woodlands, wide-open fields, and river crossings, all contributing to a dynamic riding experience.
Hamilton County
Distance: Variable
Location: Hamilton County, Indiana
Surface: Gravel, paved, and dirt roads
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Description: Gravel bike riding in Hamilton County, Indiana, offers cyclists a peaceful and scenic experience through rural landscapes, quiet roads, and diverse terrain. Located just north of Indianapolis, with the burgeoning flagship city of Carmel, Indiana at its core, the county features well-maintained gravel routes that wind through charming farmlands, forests, and alongside rivers like the White River and Cicero Creek. The terrain is a mix of rolling hills, flat sections, and occasional rugged paths, providing challenges for cyclists of all levels. Popular routes also surround its city of Noblesville and lead into nearby rural areas, including peaceful nature parks like Potter's Bridge Park and Morse Park. These routes offer stunning views of farmland, waterways, and woodlands. Gravel roads are generally less trafficked, making it a great destination for quiet, safe rides. With easy access from Indianapolis, Hamilton County is an ideal spot for cyclists seeking a relaxed or more adventurous gravel riding experience amid picturesque countryside.
Mountain Biking Trails
For mountain bikers looking to experience the thrills of off-road cycling, Central Indiana boasts a few incredible locations with well-maintained trails that vary in difficulty. These trails are perfect for riders looking to test their skills on technical singletrack or enjoy flowy sections.
Brown County State Park
Distance: Over 25 miles of singletrack
Location: Nashville, Indiana
Surface: Singletrack, dirt, and rock
Difficulty: Easy to Advanced
Description: Brown County is often considered the mountain biking capital of Indiana. The park offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, with over 25 miles of purpose-built singletrack trails that offer a variety of challenges. Riders can experience everything from smooth, fast descents to technical climbs and rocky sections. The park also hosts annual mountain biking events and races such as the Brown County Epic, making it a must-visit for mountain bikers.
Fort Harrison State Park
Distance: 10 miles
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
Surface: Singletrack, dirt
Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
Description: Located just outside Indianapolis, Fort Harrison State Park offers over 10 miles of mountain biking trails that wind through woodlands and across rugged terrain. The trails here cater to riders of all skill levels, with options ranging from beginner-friendly loops to more technical sections. It's a great option for mountain bikers looking for a quick ride without venturing too far from the city.
Town Run Trail Park
Distance: 7 miles
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
Surface: Singletrack, dirt, rocky sections
Difficulty: Easy to Advanced
Description: Located in the northern part of Indianapolis, Town Run Trail Park is a highly regarded mountain biking destination, offering over 7 miles of well-designed singletrack trails. It is a popular choice for local cyclists and is known for its well-maintained trails and supportive mountain biking community. Meticulously managed through a partnership between Indy Parks and Hoosier Mountain Bike Association (HMBA), these trails traverse a mix of wooded areas, creek crossings, and rocky sections, providing riders with a fun and challenging off-road experience. The trail system caters to intermediate and advanced riders due to the technical nature of many sections, but it also has plenty of long easier sections for beginners and those who are still building their skills. Riders can expect a variety of terrain, including flowy, fast sections and more rugged, challenging parts that will test their bike handling abilities.
Mixed Use
For multi-sport and racing enthusiasts, there’s one Indianapolis venue that’s a must visit: Indy Cycloplex! From paved banked track racing to cyclocross, bmx to skate, there’s plenty of action to keep you occupied for a full weekend (or season). The world class track boasts of a large grandstand and lighting, perfect for those who would rather spectate than participate.
Indy Cycloplex
Distance: Variable
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
Surface: Paved banked oval, smooth enclosed bmx course, cx mixed-surface course
Difficulty: Easy to Advanced
Description: The Lake Sullivan Sports Complex, operating as the Indy Cycloplex located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a multi-purpose recreational facility primarily known for its focus on cycling and BMX sports. The public friendly facility features the Major Taylor Velodrome, a premier outdoor cycling track that attracts both professional and amateur cyclists, and is home to nationally ranked and decorated Marian University Cycling. The complex also features a full BMX track, a cyclocross course, and various other cycling-related amenities. In addition to its track and racing areas, Indy Cycloplex often hosts events such as races, training sessions, and community activities for cyclists of all skill levels. It provides a welcoming environment for both competitive athletes and recreational riders. With its diverse offerings, Indy Cycloplex is not only a center for high-level training and competition but also a community space for anyone interested in cycling.
Conclusion
Central Indiana is a fantastic place for cycling enthusiasts, with a variety of trails suited for road cyclists, gravel riders, and mountain bikers. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely ride along the Monon Trail or seeking the thrill of technical mountain bike trails at Brown County, this region offers diverse terrain for cyclists of all types. So grab your bike, pack your gear, and get ready to explore some of the best cycling routes Central Indiana has to offer. Happy riding!
Pro Tip
Cyclists around Indiana like to cross trails and disciplines for added variety and difficulty. For example, Town Run Trail Park, primarily known as single track mountain bike course, is frequented by cyclists on gravel and cyclocross bikes looking for an added challenge to their training regime. During colder months, especially inclement weather, mountain bike riders like to venture onto paved trails like the Monon for an outdoor refresher and long off-season training ride.
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For more detailed information about cycling in Indiana, including trail maps and events, visit these resources: