Monon Trail

Who knew that a former railroad line would become one of the most popular bike trails in the Central Indiana area? Originally, the Monon Trail operated as the main Chicago to Indianapolis line of the Monon Railroad. The trail actually runs from 10th street in Indianapolis to 161st Street in Westfield.

The Monon Trail links neighborhoods, recreational facilities and cultural centers. Areas to note include Nora, the White River, Broad Ripple, the State Fairgrounds and the Indianapolis Art Center. Along the way, you can enjoy bridges, art work, restaurants, breweries and ice cream shops. The Massachusetts Avenue shopping area can be reached from the south side of the trail as can the Indianapolis Zoo by using St. Clair Street.

The Monon also connects to the Cultural Trail and provides easy access to the Broad Ripple District from downtown. The best access points for the Monon Trail are at the Broad Ripple and 96th Street trailheads.

The area is flat and a perfect surface for bike riders and rollerbladers. Canoeists and kayakers can access the White River by launching at the northernmost trailhead, or by moving upstream to Keystone Avenue.

The Monon Center is a new area that can be reached from 111th St. It features a water park, fitness center and skate park. The impressive shopping area of Carmel is also accessible from the northern part of the trail.

The Monon Trail is a great place to become active, absorb the sights and sounds of Indianapolis, or to just people watch.

HelloIndianapolis Tip: It can get very busy on the Monon. Stay alert for bikers and rollerbladers who travel at a great speeds. Keep dogs on a leash at all times. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Also, watch for suspicious individuals. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department now regularly patrols, but there have been isolated incidents in 2010.

- by Jim Brown , Indianapolis Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)