Hiking in nature is one of my favorite ways to unplug and connect with my family. For our family, and many others, a trail with a path is important, as we have a son in a wheelchair and an infant who uses a stroller. Accessibility is important, but walking around the neighborhood on the sidewalk gets old quickly! Here are 10 great trails to take your kids while using a stroller or wheelchair.
Need more suggestions for places to play with your baby around Indy? Check out 50 of our favorites!
Flat Fork Creek Park
16141 E 101st Street, Fishers 46040
This 60-acre park features a lake, nature trails, a sledding hill, a mountain-biking course & more. Flat Fork Creek offers a large paved trail with plenty to see and do!
Nickel Plate Trail
106th Street/ I-69, Fishers 46037
The Nickle Plate Trail is a large project underway in Fishers, which is replacing a section of railroad tracks with a hiking trail. The trail is currently open between 106th and 146th Streets, with a large pedestrian tunnel leading under busy 116th street. Walk through peaceful natural areas, community-oriented plazas, and the lively Nickel Plate District with all of its restaurants and shops. Future plans for the Nickel Plate Trail include a continuation of the path further south to 96th Street.
You might also like the paved trail at Bee Camp Creek Trailhead in Fishers.
Monon Trail
Multiple Access Points
The Monon Rail Trail is unique, as it provides 26 miles of continuous trail through multiple parts of town. It stretches from Sheridan in the north, and extends south through Westfield, Carmel, Broad Ripple, and passes by the Indiana State Fairgrounds before intersecting with the Indianapolis Cultural Trail on the east end of Massachusetts Avenue. There are multiple access points with free parking at the following streets: 91st Street, 86th Street, 75th Street, 67th Street, 65th Street, 62nd Street, 56th Street, 54th Street, 49th Street, Westfield Boulevard, Broad Ripple Avenue, and the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Multiple Access Points
In addition to the Art and Nature provided on this 9-mile trail, there is also an adaptive bike program, with handicap-accessible bikes available for rent. For a comprehensive list of entry points, visit the Indy Cultural Trail site.
Northwest Park
1300 W. Fry Road, Greenwood 46142
Northwest Park features 12 acres, mature trees, and Pleasant Run Creek, which makes this park a great place to walk and submerge yourself in nature. Free parking and restrooms are also available.
Harrison Trace Trail
6000 N Post Road, Indianapolis 46216
The Harrison Trace Trail at Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park is a great option for walking. Plenty of scenery, multiple playgrounds, and a beautiful pond to enjoy. The park also has multiple bathrooms available throughout the trail for the public to use. If you are looking to make a day at the state park, there are a variety of amenities for the whole family to enjoy, all listed on the park website.
Dillon Park
6001 Edenshall Lane, Noblesville 46060
Dillon Park has a beautiful scenic trail, as well as a unique playground and a splash pad for the summer months. This is a great option for a nice walk, as well as a place to run and play for the kids!
Potter’s Bridge Park
19401 N Allisonville Road, Noblesville 46060
Potter’s Bridge Park features the only remaining covered bridge in Hamilton County, surrounded by a 66-acre park. This makes for a unique option, and beautiful views to get a much-needed change of scenery. Mature trees provide ample shade. There are also fishing opportunities and a playground for multiple options to connect as a family.
White River Greenway Trail (Noblesville)
1 N 8th Street, Noblesville 46060
This trail begins behind the Hamilton County courthouse in downtown Noblesville. The trail continues all along the White River up to Morse Park on Morse Reservoir. There is plenty to look at and enjoy on this trail. It is even connected to Forest Park, for a play and bathroom break, if you so choose.
White River Greenway Trail (Carmel)
13410 River Road, Carmel 46033
The mile-long path winds through wooded acres alongside the White River. This trail is complete with great scenery and shade for hot summer days.
Morgan-Monroe State Forest
6220 Forest Rd, Martinsville, IN 46151
There are a variety of trails available at Morgan-Monroe State Forest for most skill levels and abilities. The Hike-Bike trail is a longer loop at 5.2 miles, but it is an ADA-accessible trail and is paved the whole way.
Go adventuring in confidence, knowing you and your wheels can safely travel on trails.
Looking for more accessible ideas? Check out my list of favorite handicap-accessible parks and playgrounds.
If you are exploring with a baby, here are our 50 favorite places to play!
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