Indiana’s Next Level Trails Program Just Cut The Ribbon On Its 100th Hiking Trail

Indiana is a magical place with so much to love in the events that you're an avid hiker like I am. I'm always on the hunt for the coolest new trails, and guess what? I found one! The Chesapeake and Ohio Greenway trail just got better; on Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, Governor Holcomb attended a ceremony for the 100th mile of trail built under the wonderful Next Level Trails program (also known as NLTP). Come on out and explore the newest trail in Indiana, which is a nice, quiet wander through some spectacularly peaceful woodlands. Of all the hiking trails in Indiana, this one's bound to become a new favorite.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Greenway - also known as the C&O Greenway - is a nice, quiet hike (more like a leisurely walk).

Extending for 3.3 miles, this trail has a very special distinction: having been recently completed, this trail marks the 100th mile of trail constructed under the new Next Level Trails Program.

The NLTP is a collaboration between the town of Merrillville and Lake County Parks. Together, these folks ensure that Indiana will have hundreds (now literally!) of miles of trails to be enjoyed by countless generations to come.

Some nice, juicy grants received in April 2022 ensured that this project would come to fruition - and we're so glad they did!

You can start at any point, obviously, but the trail officially begins at the old Innsbrook Country Club.

From there, the trail wanders north, and then west, passing some quiet neighborhoods and providing a little bit of stimulation for this leg of the hike. But don't worry - you'll spend most of the trail in the woods.

West of Hendricks Steet, you'll find that the trail continues, well, west.

From here, the trail eventually connects with the Oak Savannah Trail, which is definitely worth doing as well. It's peaceful, idyllic, and makes for a great afternoon.

As of December 2023, more miles of trails have been funded, and are in the works.

One thing I adore about Indiana is our extensive trail system, our amazing state and National parks, and so much more. The pleasant C&O Greenway Trail is paved the whole way through, making it easily accessible for the entire family. It's an excellent member of our trailblazing family!

Best of all, the trail is open year-round. My favorite time to hike is in the spring and summer, but winter isn't bad and autumn can be stunning, too.

It's all up to you - you get to choose your own adventure.

For more information about Indiana's newest hiking adventure, be sure to check out the official details on the official Indiana Dunes website. Hoping to kick your hiking game up to 11? I've got just the thing - check out AllTrails Plus. I have no idea how I ever hiked without it.