Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana and the largest city in the state. It is known for having a prolific sports scene, including the world’s largest single-day sporting event, the Indianapolis 500, and the nation’s largest half marathon.
Indy is also unofficially known as the leading Amateur Sports City. Sitting on the White River, the city boasts terrific riverside views with many amazing trails to explore. If there is a city made for running, then it most certainly is Indianapolis.
Are you in Indy, growing tired of running the same old loop around your block, wondering, “What are the best places to run near me?” Keep reading and learn about the top 9 Indianapolis runs.
1. White River Trail
The White River stretches all through Indianapolis and, coincidentally, is one of the iconic running trails in Indiana. The path covers 4.75 miles between Lilly Recreation Park and White River Parkway.
This paved trail winds along the riverside, crossing many parks and scenic areas of Indy, as well as some fantastic running trails nearby, including Central Canal Towpath, Riverside Park, Fall Creek Trail, Eagle Creek Trail, and the Pleasant Run Trail. It also has many cultural and educational attractions, such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Lake Sullivan Sports Center, IUPUI, the Downtown Canal Walk, White River State Park, and the Indianapolis Zoo.
Why is it great?
- Iconic waterside trail.
- Paved path.
- Flat course.
- Well-lit at night and shaded during the day.
- Many sights along the way.
- A plethora of opportunities to extend the run.
2. The Zoo Loop
This popular route starts near the Indianapolis Zoo. You will take the White River Trail and turn right, passing the river at West New York St., continuing for about two miles. When you reach North Capitol Ave., you take a right, strolling past Indiana Supreme Court. From there, turn right at West Washington St. and find your way back to White River Trail, completing the 3.5-mile loop.
This loop combines the terrific views of the White River Trail and the fantastic architectural wonders of downtown Indianapolis.
Why is it great?
- Well-lit at night and well-shaded during the day.
- Paved path.
- Flat trail.
- Good mix of waterside views and architectural landmarks.
3. The Canal Walk
The Canal Walk is one of the top running spots in Indianapolis. It is safe and quiet, without traffic in sight. It’s a popular attraction for walkers, tourists, and bikers, so be mindful of them on your run.
Why is it great?
- Great waterside run.
- Well-lit at night.
- Flat course.
- Paved path.
4. The Cultural Trail
The Cultural Trail is the prime pick for urban exploration. The trail stretches for 8 miles, offering unique sights to bikers, walkers, and runners alike. The route has separate walking and biking trails, so you will not have to bother with those pesky bike riders raining on your parade.
The trail connects to the six cultural districts, including Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Avenue, The Canal & White River State Park, and the Wholesale District.
Why is it great?
- Well-lit at night.
- Split lanes for bikers and walkers.
- Connects to 6 cultural districts for possible run extensions.
- Amazing architectural landmarks along the way.
5. Fall Creek Trail
Stretching between Skiles Test Nature Park and George E. Kessler Park, this 9.5-mile paved trail closely hugs the scenic Fall Creek, providing some of the most terrific waterside views. The course is specifically designed for runners, with mile markers every 1/4 mile.
The trail will lead you through some of the most scenic neighborhoods, age-old bridges, and great creek views.
There is also a Starbucks down the road at 56th St, so you can rest and recoup after your run.
Why is it great?
- Terrific waterside views.
- Flat course.
- Paved trail.
6. Eagle Creek Park
Eagle Creek Park is an iconic park in Indianapolis with 3,300 acres of woodland and 1,300 acres of water. The park features 5K, 8K, and 10K certified courses and an uncertified 7K course, all beginning at the nearby beach parking lot.
Eagle Creek Park is the prime Indiana trail running spot. In addition to the paved paths, there are over 10 miles of interior rugged rolling dirt trails. The most popular trail is the 6-mile Blue Man Trail, named after the specific marking of the trail.
The park also has other facilities, including a beach, marina, nature center, and ornithology center.
Why is it great?
- Flat and rolling trails.
- Paved and rugged dirt paths.
- Wide variety of trails.
- Iconic woodland and waterside views.
- Well-shaded during the day.
7. Monon Trail
If you are looking for the best places for a long run in Indianapolis, you cannot go wrong with Monon Trail. It spans over 25 miles, starting in downtown Indy and heading up to Sheridan, connecting multiple trails along the way.
This paved course is relatively flat, with a smooth, gradual incline going northward. It is also well-marked and has many maps along the path. The trail combines terrific urban, suburban, and pastoral views, giving you a taste of all the spices of Indianapolis.
Why is it great?
- Perfect for a long run.
- Paved path.
- Flat route with a slight incline.
- Good combination of urban, suburban, and pastoral views.
- Well waymarked.
- Has maps along the route.
- Well-shaded during the day.
8. Pleasant Run Trail
Pleasant Run Trail is the perfect opportunity for exploring the eastern and southern edges of Indianapolis. This 6-mile trail stretches between Ellenberger Park and Garfield Park, crossing Pleasant Run Creek, Christian Park, Orange Park, and the Cultural Trail.
The trail mostly hugs Pleasant Run Creek but sometimes winds into the scenic neighborhood areas.
Why is it great?
- Good combination of residential and waterside views.
- Paved path.
- Flat course.
- Crosses many parks and trails.
- Well-shaded during the day.
9. Central Canal Towpath
Central Canal Towpath is one of the iconic trails at Broad Ripple. It is a 3.45-mile dirt and crushed limestone trail running alongside the White River. This spot is popular for its historical and architectural landmarks, including 19th-century bridges, the Museum of Art, the Butler Campus, and other attractions. There is also a 127-foot elevation gain, perfect for cardio.
Why is it great?
- Dirt and crushed limestone path.
- Slight elevation gain.
- Amazing waterside views.
- Well-shaded during the day and well-lit at night.
- Many architectural and historical landmarks.
Conclusion
As you can see, Indianapolis trails vary greatly in the distance, incline, and setting, giving everyone something they might like. Whether you are a fan of grand architecture or serene waterscapes, Indy will have something for you.
This concludes our top running spots for Indianapolis. Did we miss any good running trails? Let us know in the comments!
