Spring into Training
Winter is on its way out. With sunny spring days on the horizon, it’s time to leave the treadmill and tired running routes with the last snowflakes of March. Seasons change and so do running hot spots – Hoosiers need not travel far to indulge in the spring fever!
Treat yourself by making your run more than a routine task. Find an Indiana running destination near you!
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North:
- Indiana Dunes State Park – Indiana’s Lake Michigan Shoreline is nestled among historic sand dunes and a network of running and hiking trails. Aside from the scenic 3-mile stretch of beach, Indiana Dunes Beaches & Beyond highlighted the Top 10 Fitness and Fun Challenges within Indiana Dunes State Park and throughout northern Indiana.
- Cowles Bog Trail System – Visit a National Natural Landmark while exploring the diverse 4.7-mile Cowles Bog Trail System. This loop trail features abundant plant and wildlife while the view of Lake Michigan rounds out the scenic journey.
South:
- Clifty Falls State Park – A 4.5-mile, rugged trail runs parallel to Clifty Creek and along the rim of Clifty Canyon. Its steep switchbacks present a challenge, but if you choose to visit in spring, the run will highlight the park’s waterfalls at their peak!
- Hoosier National Forest – With a view of Indian and Celina Lakes, The Two Lakes Loop Trail takes the scenic route through the Hoosier National Forest. The main trail extends for 15.7 miles and includes spur trails that provide options for shorter hikes.
East:
- Whitewater Memorial State Park – The Lakeshore Trail is a 2.7-mile hilly loop that hugs the Whitewater Lake shoreline. The Memorial and Veterans Vista Loop trails are additional options available within the park for tacking on extra miles.
- Brookeville Lake State Park – With more than 25 miles of trails within the park, the options are endless. Indy Mini participants might be most interested in the Wolf Creek Trail, a 16.5-mile primitive trail with beautiful lake views.
West:
- Turkey Run State Park – A network of over 10 trails weave in and out of diverse terrain and scenic views. A 200-foot-long suspension bridge over Sugar Creek links the developed area of the park to the remote trails.
- McCormick’s Creek State Park – Ten miles of trail, ranging in difficulty, wind through McCormick’s Creek limestone canyon.
Central:
- Yellowwood State Forest – The Tecumseh Trail spans 42 miles through Yellowwood State Forest and incorporates existing trails for a variety of mileage options.
- Morgan Monroe State Forest – The Low Gap and Three Lakes Trails are high mileage trails that follow the ridges and valleys of the forest’s lakes and backcountry.
Less than two months of Mini-Marathon training remain before that magical day in May. Whether your next running destination is right outside your door or calls for a weekend excursion, Indiana is your playground for Mini miles!
Grab a running buddy and go enjoy your training as you prepare for May 5 in Indianapolis!
Interested in running or walking the 13.1 miles of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon?
Register here!