Indiana DNR hosts ribbon cutting for Monon Trail expansion in northern Hamilton County

INDIANAPOLIS — Users of the Monon Trail will now be able to travel through Hamilton County all the way to downtown Indianapolis.

According to a news release from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the department, along with the town of Sheridan, hosted a ribbon-cutting for the completion of the extension of the Monon Trail in northern Hamilton County.

The release said that the extension of the trail was constructed by the town of Sheridan with help from a $2,089,850 grant from the department in April 2022.

“The Monon Trail makes important connections to destinations, people, and the great outdoors, and it sets an excellent example of the value that trails provide in communities across Indiana,” said Dale Brier, Indiana DNR deputy director of community grants and trails. “We’re excited to support the growth of trails across Indiana, including the completion of the Monon Trail in Hamilton County.”

Officials said the new trail extends a little more than a mile northwest from Second Street to the Hamilton County/Boone County line. The release said it connects to the existing trail from State Road 47 to Second Street that opened last October.

Officials said the trail now follows the historic railroad corridor through the center of Sheridan. This continues the more than 26-mile trail that goes through Westfield, Carmel and Broad Ripple to downtown Indianapolis.

“This final stretch of the Monon Trail is more than pavement—it’s a pathway to growth, wellness, and connection,” said Silas DeVaney, Sheridan’s town council president. “Residents can enjoy a safe, scenic route from Sheridan all the way to the heart of downtown Indy. It’s a win for sustainability, health, and quality of life. Sheridan is proud to be part of a trail that links small towns to big possibilities.”