Cycling is a way of life in these towns.
If you’re an avid cyclist, you might be worried about moving out of bike-friendly Indy. With its 200 miles of bikeable trails, Pacers Bike Share program, and iconic events at the Indy Cycloplex, Indianapolis has earned its reputation as a major cycling hub. But moving to the suburbs doesn’t mean you have to give up your active lifestyle. In fact, there are plenty of Indy suburbs where cycling culture thrives. Here are a few of our favorites…
#1. Noblesville
Local cyclists can ride along the scenic White River Greenway from Potters Bridge Park to downtown Noblesville. Once downtown, you’ll find plenty of places to relax with a cup of coffee before hopping back on the greenway (Uptown Cafe and Rosie’s Place are two local favorites.)
But the White River Greenway is just the start. There are tons of other trails in town, like the Deer Creek Loop and Dillon Park Loop. If mountain biking is more your speed, there’s the Hague Road Nature Haven which occasionally offers “Try It” mountain biking programs for kids.
#2. Greenwood
This suburb 15 miles south of Indianapolis is perfect for families who love to cycle. Locals have access to miles of kid-friendly trails in town, like Tracy Trail which connects Summerfield and Woodman Parks. Polk Hill Trail, another popular path in town, is lined with a rotating display of local art that you can ride past.
When your bike needs some maintenance or you just need to pick up some new gear, there’s a Bicycle Garage outpost conveniently located in town.
#3. Carmel
Carmel is one of the most bike-friendly of the Indy suburbs. There are 8 cross-city bike trails and 5 loops throughout the town. The beloved Monon Trail even connects Carmel with downtown Indy. The Bike Carmel group also puts on tons of community events like Coffee of the Monon to celebrate cycling commuters, a Family Fun Ride, the Roundabout Ride, and more.
Grey Goat is Carmel’s own specialized bike shop where locals can go for cycling accessories. If you plan to ride to the Saturday morning farmers market, you can leave your bike with the free bike valet. And there’s InCycle and Cyclebar for indoor cycling classes when the weather isn’t cooperating for an outdoor ride.
#4. Westfield
Freedom Trail Park is a favorite spot for cyclists. This park features crushed limestone trails and plenty of bike racks if you want to hop off and explore on foot. If you move to Westfield, keep an eye on the Central Indiana Bicycling Association calendar. Join one of their Westfield rides to start meeting some other cycling enthusiasts in town.
Grand Junction Brewing Co. is a popular spot for local cyclists to grab a beer after a ride. Insider tip — there happen to be bike racks right outside. Plus, it’s not far from Westfield Cycleshop where residents go to service their bikes or pick up parts and apparel.
#5. Zionsville
Zionsville cyclists enjoy riding along the Big 4-Rail Trail. The town has plans to extend this bike path but for now, it already connects different parts of the city. On one of the Rail Trails, you’ll find Heritage Trail Park which has its own network of bike paths plus a playground and community garden. If you’re moving to town with a four-legged friend, you’ll also want to check out the huge dog run in Heritage Trail Park.
#6. Plainfield
Plainfield locals have access to an excellent bike shop right in town. Gear Up Cyclery offers everything from apparel to bike repair services. It’s also right next to the 3.5-mile White Lick Creek trail cyclists can use to travel north-south through town. For east-west riding, there’s the 5-mile Vandalia Trail.
If you’re looking to meet other local cyclists, keep an eye out for updates on community rides. Local cycling groups often host group rides on the Vandalia Trail and employees from the Gear Up Cyclery occasionally lead rides, too.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or have other must-haves on your list, there’s an Indianapolis suburb for you. Let’s chat about your priorities so we can help you find the town that fits. Schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy Session today to get started.