HEADWATERS ROUTE INFO
If parking at the State Bank of Lizton, please only park in spaces in front of the bank, if available. Do not park in back.
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Download or view Headwaters route here:
Bluegrass Big Walnut Creek Gravel Route
BLUEGRASS HILL ROUTE INFO
MapMyRide - Short Route
MapMyRide - Long Route
Bluegrass Hill Climbing Route
The Bluegrass Headwaters Route skirts the edges of the headwaters of the Big Walnut Creek and Grassy Branch Creek which provide just enough gently rolling hills to keep things interesting on the legs and the eyes. The route begins in Lizton, IN and it traverses through portions of Hendricks and Boone County.
The 23-mile route alternates pavement and gravel throughout giving welcome sections of respite from the harder-to-pedal and slower gravel sections. The terrain is somewhat rolling for this area of Indiana and consists of 11 miles of gravel and 15 miles of pavement. The pavement portions are in excellent condition while the gravel is a loose, round type that can be somewhat challenging at times.
This is an excellent route for gravel-riding enthusiasts. We recommend stopping in for great food and beer at the Rusted Silo BBQ post-ride!
HOMEGROWN ROUTE INFO
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Google Maps
Bluegrass Big Walnut Headwaters Route
Climbing anyone? Contrary to popular belief, there is more than corn in Indiana, and hills can be found even in the flat Indianapolis metro area! We have put together our favorite hill climbing route (with both an easy and hard option) on Indy's northwest side. Ride it one direction for a great workout or turn around and ride it the other and double your mileage (and elevation) for the day. The Trader's Point Creamery makes an excellent lunch stop or pop in and enjoy a fresh made smoothie at their upstairs Dairy Bar.
The Bluegrass Big Walnut Creek Gravel Route crosses over scenic Big Walnut Creek six times, passes over three historic covered bridges, one historic iron truss bridge, past three state nature preserves and past two historic cemeteries! A little more than half of the route (17.5 miles) is gravel and the rest is a mix of smooth and rough pavement. Be sure to stop in to the Bainbridge Dari-ette for a mid-ride rest and refuel. We highly recommend the breaded tenderloin and raspberry milkshake!
The Bluegrass Homegrown Route passes a number of fresh produce stands along the way. Stands may or may not be open depending on season, time of day and weather. Bring a bit of cash and a way to carry some fruits and veggies or stop to enjoy a fresh peach along the way!
Bluegrass Homegrown Route
Bluegrass Bicycle Company
BIG WALNUT ROUTE INFO
After entering McCloud Nature Park, drive down the gravel road and park in the first parking lot on your right at the bottom of the hill. There are restrooms and a water source available nearby the parking area. Be aware that if you put "McCloud Nature Park" into your smart phone or GPS it may take you to the wrong side of the park with no access.
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Download or view Headwaters route here: