The Best Running Routes In Indianapolis IN

From scenic lakeside views to incredible urban trails, Indianapolis is a runner’s dream. Whether you love jogging through the hustle and bustle of the city or prefer a more peaceful, rural trek, you’ll find the perfect running path for you in Indy.

White River Trail

This picturesque trail gives you the best of both worlds, complete with beautiful nature and city scenery. This path is eight miles (12.8 kilometers) round trip, starts at 38th Street, and ends at Raymond Street. This awesome trail cuts through several scenic spots, including the Indianapolis Museum of Art, White River State Park, and the Indy Zoo.

White River Trail Route

This moderate-to-rugged trail is perfect for a runner looking for a bit of a challenge in a gorgeous setting. Nestled in the beautiful Fort Harrison State Park, this route is roughly 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometers) long and is accessible by either the Lawrence Creek Trailhead or the Walnut Trailhead. If you run this trail, keep an eye out for mountain bikes!

Lawrence Creek Trail Route

Indy Canal Walk

This idyllic urban trail is one of the most unique in the state. Located along the downtown Indy Canal, this walking or running trail is roughly three miles (4.8 kilometers) round trip and is perfect any time of day. The Canal Walk runs from White River State Park to 11th Street and offers a unique and unparalleled glimpse of the city.

Indy Canal Walk Route

Pleasant Run Trail

This charming running trail follows Pleasant Run Parkway along Pleasant Run Creek and is 6.9 miles (11 kilometers), one way. This underrated running path begins on the south side of the city at Ellenberger Park, runs through Christian Park, and ends at Garfield Park. You can also enjoy bonus trails inside each of these three parks.

Pleasant Run Trail Route

Monon Rail Trail

This unique trail was the site of a former railroad and has now been converted into a running space. The entire trail is 26 miles (41.8 kilometers) and extends from downtown Indianapolis to Westfield, but you’ll get 10 miles (16 kilometers) worth of running in the city. It runs through the east end of Mass Ave, the state fairgrounds, Arsenal Park, Canterbury Park, Broad Ripple Park, The Indianapolis Arts Center, Marott Park, and ends in Nora, before connecting to the Monon Greenway in Carmel to continue to Westfield.

Monon Rail Trail Route

The Blue Trail

This trek through the woods lies at Eagle Creek Park, and it was voted the Best Nature Trail in Indianapolis by Indianapolis Monthly Magazine. If you love nature, you’ll love this three-mile (4.8-kilometer) looped running trail that goes through wooded areas, around a bird sanctuary, and around the park’s reservoir for a great sampling of Indiana’s natural beauty.

The Blue Trail Route

The Cultural Trail

If you can’t get enough of urban scenery, then you’ll love this unique eight-mile (12.9-kilometer) trail that passes through some of the best spots in Indianapolis. This path connects the city’s six cultural districts: Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Ave, The Canal and White River Park, and the Wholesale District. A majority of the trail has designated biking or running lanes, a surprising amount of greenery, and incredible public art.

The Cultural Trail Route

Fall Creek Trail

This mostly asphalt trail runs parallel to the Fall Creek Parkway and starts just south of the Children’s Museum at 25th and Meridian and ends on 65th at Skiles Test Nature Park. It spans 9.5 miles (15.2 kilometers) and is an extremely popular route for runners because of the scenic bridges and architecture, charming Indianapolis neighborhoods, and glimpses of the waterway.

Fall Creek Trail Route

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