Rails to Trails = Happiness

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We just came back from a wonderful ski trip to Boyne Mountain, Michigan. The weather could not have been more perfect!

Several days of skiing in the sunshine, tasty tacos and cold drinks sitting at picnic tables at the base of the mountain, and live music in dark pubs at night. Perfection!

Now that we are home, I’m anxiously waiting for the weather to break (lots of cold and rain right now) so that I can begin enjoying one of my favorite healthy – walking trails with my pup.

Walking the dog on a rails to trails hiking path

What are Rails to Trails?

Many states (not just Indiana) have started to convert old railway trails into walking paths. I LOVE this trend. We have several in our neck of the woods, the most notable being the Monon Trail.

These trails are typically nicely paved so perfect for walking or biking, often have houses and restaurants along the way, and are a great way to get your exercise in a lovely setting.

Rails to Trails Resources

When we travel, I’ll often search out these types of walking trails as they are usually well-maintained and safe. Perfect for getting out and experiencing an unfamiliar area. If you want to enjoy the same, here are a few places to look:

1. Rails to Trails Website

Rails to Trails – a great resource to find trails in your area or wherever you want to travel.

2. Use Google

Do a Google search using the terms “rails to trails” and the city you want to search. For example, for an upcoming trip, I’d type in “Rails to Trails Muncie, Indiana” for my search.

3. Indiana Resources

If you are in Indiana or another nearby state, Indiana Trails is one of my favorite resources for finding new trails near me.

4. Pick up a book!

A fun guidebook I found for locating rails-to-trails is: Rail-to-Trail Hall of Fame

Or, for a more specific version, do a search on Amazon for your state and rails to trails. I found this one for Illinois, Indiana & Ohio in just a few seconds.

Although I do love hiking in State Parks and National Parks, when I want a more social experience, a rail-to-trail is a good bet as they are often used by a wide variety of people and it’s especially fun to stop and get a drink or appetizer along the way when they run alongside urban areas!

stop for a beer after enjoying the Mill Race Trail in Goshen, IN

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