Looking for some beautiful natural areas to satiate your wanderlust craving this weekend without venturing too far from home? Check out this list of hiking trails near Indianapolis, IN we put together just for you and the family to get out there and enjoy quality time with mother nature.
3 Amazing Hiking Trails in Driving Distance of Indianapolis, IN
South Overlook Waterfowl Sanctuary – A Trail the Whole Family Will Love
Located at 6485-6243 Delong Rd, just 20 minutes west of the city, this 2.4-mile loop trail is an easy route that every member of the family can enjoy during a weekend outing, including the family dog as long as he/she stays on a leash. Look out for diverse wildlife and birds to snap photos of or show the kids, especially near the edge of the lake. Birdwatching is popular here and diverse species abound including redheaded woodpeckers. Be prepared to pay the $5-$6 fee to get into the park.
Schoen Creek – A Moderate-Level Adventure That Still Gets You Home at a Decent Hour
It takes about an hour to complete this 3.1-mile loop located at Lawrence Creek Trailhead Parking, VX8G+JG in Fort Harrison State Park. This trail is also kid-friendly, and popular with hikers and mountain bikers so expect to encounter other nature enthusiasts enjoying the outdoors during your trip, unless you venture out in the evening when it’s less popular. Schoen Creek trail is rockier and holds up to moisture better when it rains compared to other trails in the area.
Fort Benjamin Harrison MTB Loop – For a Longer More Vigorous Hike
This 7.7-mile loop takes about 2 and a half hours to complete on average and is a great choice for those looking to spend a longer chunk of time outside, to cover more distance or those training for a thru-hike who don’t want to drive too far outside the city. The scenery is lovely and green with many patches of wildflowers to be found May through September. Just look out for muddy conditions after it rains or make sure you have hiking shoes with enough tread to prevent slips.
Whatever your level of hiking experience, one of the spots listed above will be a perfect fit for a short day trip out in nature and all 3 are close enough to get you back in time to enjoy an evening with loved ones or prepare for the work week ahead. If you’re looking for the perfect vehicle to transport you from city-dwelling to the outdoor adventures that await, come visit us at Tom Obrien Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram – Indianapolis and test drive the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Lux 4X4, with heated seats for winter hikes and a cooled driver’s seat for those sweltering summer months.
Connect with us
