There’s a saying that goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather – only bad clothing.” The temperatures may be below freezing, but that shouldn’t stop you from bundling up and getting outdoors in Indiana this winter. Put on your thickest socks and a few extra layers and take a winter hike outside.
Here is a list of the best places to take a winter walk in Hamilton County, Indiana – just north of Indianapolis.
Carmel, Indiana
The picturesque lagoon, boardwalk and bridge at Central Park make it a popular spot for winter photography, but it’s also a great place to get your steps in. The paved pathway loops around the water and connects to the Central Park East Woods, with tree trunk carvings of forest animals hidden along the trails.
Westfield, Indiana
With four miles of wooded trails, this is a favorite for families. Explore nature on your own in the great outdoors or visit the Cool Creek Nature Center to learn more about Indiana’s woodlands and the importance of preserving plants and animals in their natural habitat.
Fishers, Indiana
This is the park that remains a “hidden gem” that shouldn’t be any longer. Flat Fork Creek Park opened in December 2015 and features nature trails, a boardwalk, a mountain bike course and three treehouses tucked in the woods. Climb to the top of the 60-foot sledding hill for panoramic views – and if there’s snow on the ground, bring your sled to slide all the way down to the bottom.
Westfield, Indiana
Tucked off of US-31 and Highway 38, MacGregor Park offers three miles of trails ideal for hiking and walking. The paths wind through native prairies, open fields and wetlands, making this a perfect habitat for wildlife such as birds and deer.
Carmel, Sheridan and Westfield, Indiana
This urban trail is open year-round and crews work hard to keep it free of ice and snow in the winter months. Think of the Monon Trail as an urban transportation corridor that doubles as a gym where you can run and bike. If you need to warm up, stop inside Java House Midtown for a cup of coffee or browse the galleries in the Carmel Arts & Design District, both located just steps off the trail.
Noblesville, Indiana
This 750-acre park is a popular destination for endurance athletes, hikers and bikers. But, you don’t need to be training for a triathlon to enjoy the nature trails, wetlands and prairies. Check out Koteewi Run Seasonal Slopes tubing hill, typically open late December through late February, weather permitting.
Noblesville, Indiana
Did you know this paved path takes you from Potter’s Bridge Park, past Forest Park and ends at the Historic Noblesville Square? Noblesville developed the White River Greenway to give visitors a new way to experience its parks. The new riverwalk addition extends the path even further south along the White River.
Where is your favorite place to take a winter walk? Tag us in your photos on social media using #VisitHC, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more winter fun in Hamilton County, Indiana.
