Pump the pedals over to these great Richmond bike trail stops
Get ready to saddle up and ride! The Richmond Bike Loop offers a whole new way to see the city on two wheels via a paved and protected path that runs through downtown and the Historic Depot District, connecting to the Whitewater Gorge Trail and the Cardinal Greenway beyond. Parks and green spaces, charming restaurants and local attractions line the route, laying the groundwork to make each outing feel like a different adventure.
Pit stop to catch your breath, enjoy the scenery and learn something new about Richmond’s musical history at the Gennett Records Walk of Fame in the Whitewater Gorge on the old Starr Piano factory site. Just to the north, the Wayne County Veterans Memorial Park maintains a collection of dedicated war monuments, tanks, a mounted Huey helicopter, naval guns and other tributes in meaningful remembrance of our nation’s heroes.
You’re guaranteed to work up an appetite with all that pedaling. Happily, the Richmond Bike Loop passes directly by a number of local eateries where cyclists can take a break and refuel. The Historic Depot District is home to delicious choices like Little Sheba’s, Firehouse BBQ & Blues, the Cordial Cork and Bad Dad Pint and Slice, in addition to a handful of bakeries for a sweet quick-energy sugar rush.
If you feel like really stretching your legs on a further-flung route, the Cardinal Greenway is the longest paved rails-to-trails path in Indiana, running 62 miles north from Richmond all the way through Muncie and on to Marion. The mountain bike trails at Hayes Arboretum propose a different, but equally thrilling workout over rugged terrain.
Need to borrow a set of wheels? The Cycling and Fitness Warehouse at the Cardinal Greenway trailhead lends complimentary bikes on a first-come, first-served basis, and also carries helmets and locks.
To learn more about the biking journeys through Richmond and other fun family-friendly activities to enjoy this summer in Wayne County, go to visitrichmond.org. And look for the Richmond/Wayne County Visitor Guide publication on racks now with great local trip ideas, itineraries, activities, events and attractions.
