Monon Trail

Activity Overview

The Monon Trail is a popular 18.1-mile rail trail that stretches north from downtown Indianapolis to the nearby city of Westfield. This beautiful trail is located on part of the former Monon Railroad, which used to transport passengers and freight between Indianapolis and Chicago. In recent decades, the railway was abandoned and transformed into a trail used by locals for activities such as hiking, cycling, rollerblading, and cross-country skiing.

If your family loves taking long walks or spending the weekend cycling together, consider a making a trek down all or part of the Monon Trail - it's a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy Indiana's natural beauty.

Things to Do

• Explore the south end of the trail, which starts in the heart of Indianapolis. After passing under interstate ramps and walking through residential areas, you'll reach a stunning bright-red bridge and eventually end up at the Indiana State Fairgrounds!
• Continue along the trail and you'll reach Broad Ripple Village, a cultural district of Indianapolis that is known for its thriving nightlife and wide variety of restaurants and specialty shops. Learn more about all Broad Ripple Village has to offer here.
• Once you've reached Carmel, you'll find a number of informative displays and rest areas that are maintained by community associations before reaching the Monon Community Center. If it's a hot summer day, stop by the waterpark or go swimming in the indoor pool!

Monon Trail Insider Tips

• Check out this detailed trail guide for information on the best places to access the trail, as well as find out where you can park your car.
• Don't visit the trail late in the evening - it isn't safe as there are no lights along the path.
• Feel free to bring along your dog to get it some exercise too, just make sure to keep it on a leash so that it doesn't interfere with other trail users like cyclists and runners.