Greenways And Trails

Waiting for Spring in Indianapolis.

Although a bit barren right now, soon the trails will be full of people walking, running, riding their bikes, picking wildflowers and the trees will begin to bud. I can't wait!

If you live near Eagle Creek, you already know the beauty of walking the trails throughout the park. Now, westsiders of Marion County have plenty to anticipate with the continued construction of the Eagle Creek Trail. Upon completion, this network of trails will cover more than 16 miles, running from Eagle Creek Park and reservoir to the White River.

As the largest municipal park in Indianapolis, Eagle Creek includes a 1,400-acre reservoir and spans nearly 4,000 acres of land, including a nature preserve. The land was once owned by Josiah Kirby Lilly, Jr., president of Eli Lilly and Company from 1948 to 1953, and later by Purdue University.

The greenway system offers residents of Indianapolis several unique paths...

Historic towpath turned urban oasis.....

The trails, paths and greenways throughout Indianapolis provide homeowners wonderful park features, close to home. If you're thinking about buying a homes or condo in Indianapolis, you might want to consider how close the nearest trail or greenway is. Runners, joggers, bicyclists and even cross country skiers can be seen enjoying the trails and greenways around Indy.

Approved for funding in 1836, the Central Canal was originally intended to extend 296 miles, running through Indianapolis from Peru to Worthington. Construction ended with economic crisis in 1839, leaving only eight miles in downtown Indianapolis that was operational.

Towpaths were the roads or trails along the banks of the canal which allowed teams of horses or humans to pull,...

The state of Indiana has purchased more than 150 miles of abandoned rail line to further the extension of greenways and trails throughout the state. My childhood home was just south of the neighborhood of Broad Ripple. I remember well the abandoned rail line which is now the Monon Trail. The Monon Trail starts downtown at 10th Street, where it connects to the White River Wapahani Trail. This trail has changed the Broad Ripple area, with many wanting to buy a home along the Monon Trail.

If we were to take a trail walk or ride from IUPUI, at New York Street,...