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5 trails and more to explore after watching ‘The Hoosier Way: Trails of Indiana’

Posted February 25, 2022

So you just finished watching the premiere of “The Hoosier Way: Trails of Indiana” and you’re ready to explore…we've got you covered! 

As mentioned in the new documentary, there is an Indiana state park within an hour’s drive of everybody that lives in the state of Indiana. With 24 state parks in all, there is plenty to explore! From the well-planned Indianapolis Cultural Trail to the natural trails of Turkey Run State Park, explore our interactive map and a few highlights of Indiana’s trails.

Along with each trail you’ll see a few suggestions of nearby restaurants, wineries and more to enjoy. They’re all participating merchants of the WTIU MemberCard, a member benefit that gives you access to 2-for-1 offers and more. But these aren’t the only nearby offers, so be sure to bring your MemberCard or download the MemberCard app on your trail day.

Watch or stream “The Hoosier Way: Trails of Indiana” starting February 28, 2022. 

Become a member of WTIU and support local, independent films like this. Your gift makes a difference. Give Now >

Indiana Trails Highlights

 

Monon Trail 

The Monon Trail follows the path of what was once the Monon Railroad. The railroad originally linked Chicago, Indianapolis, and Louisville. Today, you can follow the trail over 20 miles from Indianapolis to Carmel, through Westfield, and all the way to Sheridan.

Need a bite? Greek Tony’s Pizza & Sub Shop is just a block away from the trail at the intersection of 116th St and Westfield Blvd. Bring your WTIU MemberCard to enjoy an exclusive offer!

Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park, located in south central Indiana, is home to 18 miles of hiking trails and nearly 30 miles of mountain biking trails. Founded in 1929, there are plenty of vistas and trails to explore. You can even climb the fire tower on one of the trails!

While in the area, visit Brown County Winery or the Nashville General Store & Bakery. Both businesses are featured on the WTIU MemberCard, a benefit of your WTIU membership.

The Indianapolis Cultural Trail 

The Indianapolis Cultural Trail, soon to be 10 miles, runs through the heart of the state’s capital. Walk the trail to Lugar Park and enjoy live music and public events or even find all of the public art along the trail. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail also includes a combined 5 acres of beautiful gardens. Get out and enjoy the budding flowers and greenery this spring!

Just a few steps from Monument Circle and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, visit Rhythm! Discovery Center. Further south on the trail, stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at Milktooth. Both this restaurant and museum are featured on the WTIU MemberCard! 

Turkey Run State Park

With over 2,000 acres of land, there is plenty to explore at Indiana’s second state park. Discover how Turkey Run State Park got its name and learn about the history of the land while you roam the trails.

Combine your day of exploring with a visit to the General Lew Wallace Study & Museum in Crawfordsville or enjoy a slice of pie at Grand Traverse Pie Company in Terre Haute. Both are featured on the WTIU MemberCard, a benefit of your WTIU membership.

Pumpkinvine Nature Trail 

The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is a part of a network of trails including the Maple City Greenway and the MapleHeart Trail. The trails stretch from Goshen to Shipshewana, Indiana. Good news for fans of this trail – the annual Pumpkinvine Bike Ride is back this June!

Make a stop on the way in Fort Wayne for new gear or a rental at Earth Adventures Unlimited, a featured business on the WTIU MemberCard, a benefit of your WTIU membership.

More to Explore

These are just a few of the trails featured in "The Hoosier Way: Trails of Indiana” that you can explore on your own. Find even more of what Indiana trails have to offer plus photos and bonus videos from the documentary at wtiu.org/indianatrails.

About The Program

With nearly 6,000 miles of hiking, pedestrian, and biking trails within its borders, Indiana boasts a wide range of recreational trails. “The Hoosier Way: Trails of Indiana” takes viewers on a tour of some of Indiana’s finest outdoor nature trails, hikes, rails-to-trails conversion projects, and urban trail systems, revealing the beauty and wonder of our natural habitats. Learn more at wtiu.org/indianatrails.