Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN INDIANAPOLIS
Planning a biking vacation in Indianapolis? You're in for a smooth ride. The city blends flat Midwestern terrain with creative trail design, offering cyclists an amazing mix of greenways, cultural loops, and adventure-ready day tours. Whether you're a casual cruiser or a touring fanatic with panniers packed, Indy has something for every pedal-powered traveler. In this guide, we’ll roll through the city’s top routes and share tips for exploring the Circle City on two wheels.
Best urban trails for easy exploring
Indianapolis is home to some of the most rider-friendly urban trails in the Midwest. These smooth, well-signed paths are ideal for vacationers looking to mix city sights with laid-back pedaling. Many trails connect directly to downtown, making them perfect for bike-based sightseeing with stops for coffee, museums, or a picnic in the park.
The Indianapolis Cultural Trail
This 8-mile, world-class urban trail loops through the heart of downtown and connects five cultural districts. It's beautifully landscaped, easy to follow, and dotted with public art, gardens, and bike-friendly cafes. Rent a bike or bring your own—it’s perfect for a leisurely roll through Indy’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Length: 8 miles loop
Surface: Smooth, separated lanes
Highlights: Mass Ave, Fountain Square, public art
Best for: Casual riders, families, city explorers
White River Trail
Want a more nature-focused ride while staying close to the city? The White River Trail runs along the riverfront through lush green spaces, White River State Park, and near major attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo. It connects with the Cultural Trail for an extended loop option.
Length: ~6 miles (connects to more)
Surface: Paved multi-use path
Highlights: River views, downtown parks, sports venues
Best for: City-meets-nature rides, sightseeing
Together, these urban routes make Indianapolis extremely bikeable—especially for first-time visitors or travelers short on time who still want to ride and explore.
Day tours and scenic loops around Indy
Ready to put in a few more miles? These mid-range rides are perfect for a full-day adventure. Expect a blend of trail riding, neighborhood cruising, and light road sections. Ideal for riders who want to stretch their legs while still having access to amenities and stops along the way.
Fall Creek Trail to Fort Harrison State Park
The Fall Creek Trail is a shady, tree-lined path that stretches northeast from downtown, following the creek to Fort Harrison State Park. Once you reach the park, explore its bikeable paths, wooded roads, or take a picnic break. The route is smooth and mostly flat, making it a top choice for intermediate riders looking for a peaceful ride with forest vibes.
Distance: ~12 miles one way
Surface: Paved trail
Highlights: Creekside views, Fort Ben trails, forest rides
Best for: Scenic day trips, casual tourers
Eagle Creek Park Ride
This popular loop takes you northwest toward Eagle Creek Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. You'll pedal through quiet neighborhoods, rolling terrain, and eventually hit the lakeside trails and scenic overlooks of the park. There are both paved and gravel options depending on your setup and vibe.
Distance: ~20–25 mile round trip
Surface: Mixed (paved roads, trails, some gravel)
Highlights: Eagle Creek Lake, forest roads, birdwatching
Best for: Active riders, light touring, nature lovers
These longer day rides combine convenience with adventure. Bring water, snacks, and a backup battery for your phone—you’ll want to snap a few pics along the way.
Multi-day touring routes from Indianapolis
Got the gear and the legs for something longer? Indianapolis is well-placed for multi-day touring loops and linear routes, thanks to Indiana’s growing trail system and bike-friendly secondary roads. These trips offer a deeper dive into Indiana's small towns, rural backdrops, and lesser-known gems.
Indy to Bloomington via the B-Line
One of the most popular bike touring options is the route from Indianapolis to Bloomington. You’ll start by heading southwest on low-traffic rural roads or portions of the White River and Wapahani trails before transitioning to scenic backroads. Once in Bloomington, explore the famous B-Line Trail, bike around Indiana University, and enjoy a relaxed overnight stay with good food and plenty of bike racks.
Distance: ~55–65 miles one way
Best for: Intermediate+ tourers, overnight trips
Highlights: IU campus, Hoosier hills, B-Line Trail
Route type: Mixed roads and trails
Cardinal Greenway + Richmond Loop
If you’re up for a real adventure, drive or ride to the Muncie area and start a 2–3 day loop using the Cardinal Greenway, Indiana’s longest rail-trail at over 60 miles. From there, connect through farmland and charming small towns to Richmond and circle back. This is a low-stress route thanks to the rail-trail backbone and predictable terrain.
Total mileage: 120–150+ miles (loop or out-and-back)
Surface: Mostly paved trails
Best for: Multi-day tourers, long weekend riders
Top stops: Muncie, Richmond, small-town diners
Multi-day routes around Indianapolis offer that perfect Midwest touring balance: smooth riding, friendly towns, and enough open space to feel like a real adventure without being remote or overwhelming.
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