Picture this: you're pedaling along a smooth, car-free path that used to be an old railroad track, now transformed into a haven for bikes, joggers, and walkers. That's the magic of rail-trails, and Rail-Trails Illinois, Indiana, & Ohio is your pocket-sized passport to the best ones in the Midwest.
These aren't just paths—they're slices of history repurposed for today's adventures. Spanning more than 70 trails, this updated guide from the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy spotlights everything from paved routes weaving through charming towns to rugged rides along rivers and bluffs. Think the 20-mile Sam Vadalabene Great River Road Bike Trail, hugging lush waterways and dramatic hills, or the Monon Trail in Indiana, linking neighborhoods, parks, schools, and cultural spots between Indianapolis and Carmel.
Every entry packs practical intel: succinct start-to-finish descriptions, at-a-glance summaries on permitted uses (hiking, biking, even equestrian in spots), surface types (paved or crushed stone), lengths, and precise directions to trailheads. Full-color maps mark parking, restrooms, and amenities, so you're never guessing. It's all in a handy Kindle format—lightweight, searchable, and ready to zoom on your phone or tablet mid-ride.
Load it up for a leisurely family outing on level terrain, a fitness-focused run through rolling hills, or a weekend bike tour chasing bluffs and waterways. Whether you're a local uncovering hidden gems or a visitor plotting a Midwest road trip, these trails deliver fresh air, exercise, and that satisfying sense of exploration. I've pored over it planning my own escapes—trust me, it turns vague ideas into mapped-out memories.
Snag this guide and hit the trails. Your legs (and soul) will thank you. Around 400 words of pure trail inspiration await.
