Blaze some new trails in Richmond and Wayne County this summer

Summer’s here and the time is right to hit the trail, partner! Fortunately, there are plenty of great options to explore for outdoor fun in Richmond and Wayne County.
Lace up your hiking boots for an al fresco adventure on the leafy wooded walking paths through Hayes Arboretum and the Cope Environmental Center. (And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for bird and wildlife sightings along the way.) The peaceful murmur of running water serves as a pleasant soundtrack for hikers, joggers and walkers as they traverse the Whitewater Gorge Trail past scenic Thistlethwaite Falls. Or, grab a set of wheels — for free! — at the Cycling and Fitness Warehouse at the Cardinal Greenways trailhead if you’re in the mood for a slightly more fast-paced journey.

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Perhaps your interests lie in blazing a trail of a different variety? Stop into the Old National Road Welcome Center and Gift Shop on Richmond’s east side and get acquainted with the selection of themed trails available throughout Wayne County. The Chocolate Trail leads to sweet rewards at a collection of tasty stops that includes hometown candy makers, bakeries, cafes and gift shops. Make sure you charge up your phone ahead of time so you’ll be able to take lots of selfies in front of the more than 80 works of art that comprise the colorful Murals Trail.

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Not one, but two Antiques Trails propose plenty of chances to search for hidden treasures in the shops, malls and storefronts that populate U.S. 40 between Richmond and Knightstown. Little ones love hunting for magical creatures and spying their dwellings along Indiana’s Original Fairy Trail, or gathering ancient artifacts in the gorge as part of the Whitewater Valley Fossil Trail. And as one of the newest local promotions, the Black History Trail traces the lineage, culture and influence of African Americans throughout the settlement and growth of Wayne County.

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For more information about trails you can blaze across Richmond and Wayne County this summer, go to visitrichmond.org.