Monon Greenway

The Monon Greenway Trail is a 17-mile path that runs from Indianapolis all the way to Westfield, Indiana. Most visitors just hike a portion of this trail, as walking the entire length would take around eight hours. Your dog is welcome to join you on your walk on leash. Visitors must also provide their own doggie bags and clean up after their pets.

Beginning in the 1850s, Indianapolis was a transportation hub in the state, and this was primarily thanks to its railway lines. Today, the Monon Greenway Trail runs along what was once the Monon Railroad. This trail is one of 1,600 trails that's part of the Rails to Trails Conservancy, which creates public pathways out of former railway lines.

Starting in Indianapolis on 10th Street near Lewis Street, the Monon Greenway Trail's asphalt surface means it can be used for a variety of activities. In addition to dog walkers, you'll spot inline skaters and cyclists on the path, and it's also wheelchair accessible.

If you trek the portion of the Monon Greenway Trail that runs north through Indianapolis, you'll mostly go through urban areas where you'll see a variety of eclectic artwork and unique stores and cafes. From there, the trail takes you to Broad Ripple, a vibrant Indiana community. After that, you'll head into Carmel, and past the Palladium, a villa inspired by 16th-century Italy. Your trek will also take you past a variety of green spaces, beautiful and unique plant and wildlife species, and pawlenty of other things your dog will want to stop and sniff. There are water stations and washrooms all along the trail, but you're encouraged to bring a bowl to fill up for your pup. The trail's northern trailhead is in Westfield, at the roundabout of Wheeler Road and Grand Park Boulevard.

No matter where you begin your journey on the Monon Greenway Trail, you and your dog will experience a delightful blend of urban and rural environments and plenty of scenery along the way.