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United States
Indiana
Marion County

Crows Nest

The best running trails around Crows Nest

4.4

(5)

834

runners

61

runs

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Crows Nest, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. We promise to save you the guesswork.

Jogging around Crows Nest means immersing yourself in diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and open woodlands to eucalypt forests. The terrain varies from shaded paths along creeks to areas with moderate elevation changes, including ridgelines rising up to 160 feet (49 meters). You'll find everything from easy loops perfect for a gentle run to more challenging, longer-distance routes, offering a mix of forested paths and open views.

For a solid, moderate run that offers varied scenery, we'd start with the Butler University loop from Butler University, a 7.0 miles (11.2 km) path that’s a local favorite. If you're looking for something a bit more challenging and longer, the Broad Ripple Village – Broad Ripple Village loop from Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, at 13.7 miles (22.0 km), leads you through both urban and natural landscapes. With more than 800 runners having used komoot to explore Crows Nest, you're in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite route!

Last updated: May 30, 2026

28

runners

#1.

Running loop from Meridian Kessler

8.42km

00:52

20m

20m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Crows Nest

Hiking around Crows Nest

Road Cycling Routes around Crows Nest

Cycling around Crows Nest

Tips from the Community

Andrew
October 22, 2025, White River Bridge on Monon Trail

Scenic bike bridge on one of Indiana's best bike routes, definitely worth the ride

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Quant bridge as part of the sprawling Monon trail heading north from the heart of the city. Biking the entire way will leave you in pure American farm country.

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Newfields is a 152 acre campus that that includes the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Lilly House, The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, and the Beer Garden. Its a great destination with the Canal Towpath running through the middle of it all.

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Pedestrian and cycling bridge along the Monon Trail that takes you over the White River. This is one of several bridges along the trail.

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Butler University is a private university founded in 1855. The campus sits on the Canal Towpath and is a great destination that is worth a visit.

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The Central Canal Towpath is a 7.7-mile multi-use path that stretches from Broad Ripple Village to White River.

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Built in the late 19th century, although with later modifications, this beautiful bridge over Fall Creek has been maintained and preserved for the community's use. It features an uncommon Double-Warren truss main span. Right here, the USBR 35 route and the Fall Creek Parkway Trail intersect.

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Daniel Krueger
November 15, 2023, Central Canal

The Central Canal in Indianapolis is a historic waterway originally constructed in the 19th century. Stretching through downtown, it offers scenic views and is a great location to go for a run. The canal connects to the White River.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on running routes in Crows Nest?

Jogging routes in Crows Nest offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find everything from rugged bushland with steep-sided gorges and granite hills in Crows Nest National Park, Queensland, to varied topography with ridgelines rising up to 160 feet (49 meters) and deep ravines in Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve, Virginia. Many paths are forested, offering shade, while others follow creeks or open meadows. The region provides a mix of gentle elevation changes and more challenging sections, catering to different fitness levels.

Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners in Crows Nest?

Yes, Crows Nest offers some easier running options. While many routes are classified as moderate, there is at least one route specifically noted as easy. For example, the region features paths with gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for many runners. Overall, the area has 59 routes, with 1 being easy, 43 moderate, and 15 difficult.

What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while jogging in Crows Nest?

Depending on which Crows Nest location you explore, you can encounter a variety of natural features. In Crows Nest National Park, Queensland, highlights include Crows Nest Falls, Kauyoo Pool, Bottlebrush Pool, and the panoramic views from Koonin Lookout. In Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve, Virginia, you'll find extensive mature hardwood forests, tidal wetlands, and the pristine French Creek. The Crow's Nest Preserve, Pennsylvania, also features forests, meadows, and the scenic French Creek. Additionally, some routes in the broader Crows Nest area might pass by points of interest like the Monon Trail Bridge Over Fall Creek or the White River Crossing on Monon Trail.

Are there any circular jogging routes available in Crows Nest?

Yes, many of the running routes in Crows Nest are designed as loops, offering circular paths for your jog. For instance, the popular 96th Street Monon Trailhead loop from Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation is a 8.9-mile (14.3 km) circular route. Another favorite is the Butler University loop from Butler University, a moderate 5.3-mile (8.6 km) path. These loops provide a convenient way to experience the diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Crows Nest?

The running routes in Crows Nest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from several reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, which includes forested paths, creek-side routes, and areas with moderate elevation changes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance runs, making it appealing to a wide range of joggers.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while running in Crows Nest?

Absolutely! Depending on the specific Crows Nest location, you have excellent chances for wildlife spotting. In Crows Nest National Park, Queensland, you might see brush-tailed rock wallabies, platypus, koalas, and various bird species. Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve, Virginia, is critical habitat for nesting bald eagles and migratory songbirds. In Crow's Nest Preserve, Pennsylvania, joggers might encounter fox, raccoon, deer, Wood Ducks, and beavers, as it's part of an 'Important Bird Area'.

How long are the jogging trails in Crows Nest typically?

The jogging trails in Crows Nest vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops, such as the Butler University loop from Butler University at 5.3 miles (8.6 km), which takes about 54 minutes. There are also much longer and more challenging routes, like the Broad Ripple Village – Broad Ripple Village loop from Meridian Kessler, which spans 14.7 miles (23.7 km) and can take over 2 hours. With 59 routes available, you'll find options ranging from quick runs to extensive workouts.

Are there any specific areas in Crows Nest known for waterfalls?

Yes, if you're looking for waterfalls, Crows Nest National Park in Queensland, Australia, is the place to go. The park's walking tracks often follow Crows Nest Creek, leading directly to the picturesque Crows Nest Falls. This is a prominent highlight, especially impressive when the water is flowing well. You can also find 'The Cascades,' a series of steep crevices and slippery rocks in the park.

What are the best times of year to go running in Crows Nest?

The best time to go running in Crows Nest can depend on the specific location. In Crows Nest National Park, Queensland, wildflowers can be enjoyed in spring, and the calls of striped marsh frogs are heard in summer near The Cascades. Generally, for regions with varied climates, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for areas with rugged terrain or potential for heat.

Are there any routes that pass through or near urban or village areas in Crows Nest?

Yes, some routes in the Crows Nest area blend natural landscapes with urban or village settings. For example, the Broad Ripple Village – Broad Ripple Village loop from Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation is a 5.3-mile (8.6 km) trail that leads through both urban and natural landscapes, offering a different kind of running experience. This allows you to combine your run with exploring local amenities or sights in areas like Broad Ripple Village.

How many running routes are available in the Crows Nest region?

The Crows Nest region offers a substantial number of running routes for enthusiasts. There are 59 total routes available, providing a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. These include 1 easy route, 43 moderate routes, and 15 difficult routes.

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