Big 4 Rail Trail – Starkey Park

Embark on the Carmel To Zionsville loop, an easy road cycling route that guides you through a pleasant mix of suburban landscapes and local charm. This 21.9-mile (35.2 km) journey features a gentle elevation gain of 347 feet (106 metres), making it a relaxed ride you can complete in about 1 hour and 28 minutes. As you pedal, you will pass through quiet neighborhoods and local businesses, with a notable highlight being the bike and pedestrian bridge over Williams Creek, where you might even spot some local wildlife.

Planning your ride on this loop is straightforward, as it connects downtown Zionsville with Central Carmel using the smooth asphalt of "The 106" multi-use path. Carmel is known as a bicycle-friendly community, offering extensive paths and generally convenient parking options for cyclists. This well-maintained route is suitable for various fitness levels, making it an excellent choice if you are looking for a beginner-friendly road cycling experience.

The Carmel To Zionsville loop stands out for its accessibility and connection to broader cycling networks, including the Monon Trail. The route offers diverse scenic views throughout the year, particularly when the foliage changes color in the fall or when spring flowers are in full bloom. It provides a great way to explore the area's suburban beauty and enjoy a refreshing ride on a well-established path.

The Big 4 Rail Trail in Zionsville offers a delightful road cycling experience, tracing a historic railway line through varied Indiana landscapes. You'll glide on smooth asphalt, passing through open countryside, tree-lined sections, and connecting to local green spaces like Starkey Nature Park. The highlight is undoubtedly the One-hundred Foot Bridge, soaring 60 feet above Eagle Creek, providing a unique vantage point on this easy 20.4-mile (32.8 km) loop.

This route is incredibly accessible, with its gentle 241 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain making it suitable for all skill levels, including family cycling. The trail is designed with safety in mind, featuring reduced street crossings and tunnels in town, and you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way. Expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 36 minutes, making it a perfect outing for a morning or afternoon ride.

What truly sets this trail apart is its rich history as a converted railway line, once part of the Big Four Railroad that even carried Abraham Lincoln. Beyond its historical charm, the Big 4 Rail Trail serves as a central spine for Zionsville's pathway network, linking various parks and providing access to the quaint downtown area with its shops and eateries. It's a fantastic option for beginner road cycling or anyone looking for a smooth, scenic, and historically interesting ride.