It’s not every day that you have time to travel to Brown County or Turkey Run for a serious hike, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get a nice walk or hike in. There are plenty of trails and state parks around Indy that make for a quick trip to get some exercise and fresh air in.

Fort Harrison

Fort Harrison State Park is a personal favorite of mine, and a hike I frequent often. It’s the perfect quick escape to nature without having to actually get dirty. Fort Harrison offers numerous trails of differing difficulty and length. They have dirt trails that border the water to really dive into nature or you can take the paved path for a solid 3-mile walk while still enjoying the natural beauty around. Bonus: It’s a great place for bird watching.

Monon Trail

The Monon trail connects major cities in Indiana and goes on for miles and miles. It’s the perfect way to see some local nature but also have the opportunity to stop for a drink or bite to eat. It passes right through the heart of Carmel and Broad Ripple, so no matter where on the trail you start there is something to do. I personally love to stop by the awesome outdoor patio at Sun King in Carmel or grab an ice cream at Brics in Broad Ripple.

Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek is the largest park in Indianapolis offering vast land to explore all around the stunning reservoir at the center. There are about 10 miles of paths within it, so you could keep coming back with a new one to try out.

Cultural Trail

The cultural trail weaves throughout Indy all the way through downtown. It passes by tons of shops and restaurants on Mass Ave and Fountain Square, so it’s a great way to spend your day getting to know Indy. You can enjoy the beautiful plants that are maintained throughout the trail but also get some urban walking in and have a few snacks throughout the day.

Holliday Park

Holliday Park offers a few short trails to cover along the White River. Beyond its gorgeous trails through the woods, it also has tons of open land to wander and enjoy. Home to an incredible playground and nature center, it is a great option for families who want to get a walk in but need to entertain the kids as well.