Explore Nearly 30 Miles Of Indiana Countryside On The Epic Monon Rail Trail

Editor's note: Since the original time of publication it has come to our attention that there have been multiple deaths along the Monon Rail Trail in Indiana; we apologize for any overly casual language regarding the trail's history.

The Hoosier State is home to more than 4,200 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and walking, and every mile has its own special appeal that makes each hike one of a kind. Today, we're taking a look at a trail that extends nearly 30 miles across Indianapolis and beautiful countryside. The Monon Rail Trail is one of the best long hikes in Indiana, and it's accessible by the vast majority of interested hikers.

Lace up those walking shoes - we're going on an adventure!

The Monon Rail is 26.4 miles of well-maintained, nicely paved trail.

It runs from Sheridan, Indiana, almost due south through Indianapolis, ending at the eastern end of Mass Ave. Along the way, you'll go through several types of environments, from the busy hustle of city life to the quiet solitude of the country.

Hikers, walkers, runners, and bicyclists are all welcome on the Monon, and there are several areas to park bikes for free along the way.

There are numerous areas along the length of the Monon Rail Trail to park your car (also for free!), so there's an array of potential starting and ending points.

Create your own adventure! Start in Sheridan and do the entire thing from north to south, or simply hop on at any point along the way and exit whenever you feel like it. Either way, you're in for a treat.

In days gone by, the Monon Railroad was one of the major train lines connecting Indianapolis to Chicago.

Eventually, the popularity of rail travel waned, and it was gradually abandoned. In the late 1990s, it was decided to convert the line to a walking trail, and over the decades, additional miles of pathways have been paved.

Should you choose to do the entire thing, you'll pass some notable points of interest, like the Carmel City Center in beautiful Carmel, Indiana, and the Indianapolis Art Center.

You'll cross over creeks and a river, and you'll be dazzled by beautiful, dense forests surrounding the trail on all sides at many parts. During the late spring and early-to-mid summer, the wildflowers surrounding the trail are a major attraction. Hoosiers come from all over to walk the trail and take in the natural beauty.

We certainly feel that the Monon Rail Trail is one of the best long hikes in Indiana; if not for its length and accessibility, then definitely for the perfect ratio of city-to-nature you'll experience along the way.

Currently, there are numerous places you can park to start your journey just about wherever you want. A few of the starting points with free parking include those on 91st Street, 86th Street, and so forth down to 49th Street. There are also free lots at Westfield Boulevard, Broad Ripple, and the state fairgrounds. Come see why we feel it's one of the very best long hikes in Indiana!

What are your favorite hiking trails in the Hoosier State? Send us your ideas and you might see yours featured someday!