Did you know part of Indiana’s longest rail trail runs through Grant County?
The Cardinal Greenway Trail, a 62-mile, hall of fame trail, is Indiana’s longest rail trail. Spanning from Marion through Muncie to Richmond in East Central Indiana, Cardinal Greenways showcases fascinating and picturesque Indiana sights. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Therefore, hiking, biking, jogging or strolling are peaceful and interesting along this paved path, which was once a railroad track. Discover the charming communities along the way, each with their own classic-cool style and destinations.
Sites Along The Cardinal Greenway Trail
To enhance your hike along the Cardinal Greenway in Grant County, stop by the Cumberland Covered Bridge in Matthews at the southern edge of Grant County, experience the James Dean sites in Fairmount and Marion, or enjoy the 3200+ acre Mississinewa Lake and its surrounding recreation areas.
If you travel west of Marion, the Sweetser Switch Trail connects to the Cardinal Greenway and features a stationary 1916 wooden caboose and two restored train cars. Climb aboard and explore, getting a glimpse Sweetser’s early days when eight passenger trains came through town daily.
When walking the trail in Fairmount, take a short detour and check out the James Dean cut-out mural at the James Dean Gallery. The larger-than-life cut-out was created by famous muralist, John Cerney. While in Grant County, see the other two James Dean murals. One is located in Marion, and the other is at the Fairmount town entrance.
During your trek along the Cardinal Greenway Trail, be on the lookout for the lasagna-loving fat cat. Fairmount is the hometown of Jim Davis, the creator of the comic strip, Garfield. You’ll find the “Rails to Trails” Garfield statue on the Sweetser Switch trail. These statues are part of the Garfield Trail, a series of fourteen different statues of America’s favorite cat in Grant County.
Convenient Trailheads
Hop on the trail anywhere. However, if you are looking for safe and ample parking, trailheads on the Cardinal Greenway in Grant County are listed below.
Miller Avenue Trailhead in Marion at 380 South Miller Avenue
Hogin Park Trailhead in Marion at 1460 S. Valley Avenue
Jonesboro Trailhead at 215 North Water Street in Jonesboro
Sweetser Trailhead in Converse at 1281 North 700W
Explore Grant County via the extraordinary Cardinal Greenway Trail! Take in the scenery and greenery while visiting some of the classic cool attractions Grant County is known for. Located just 90 minutes north of Indianapolis, Grant County is a quick exit off I-69 in East Central Indiana.
Classic cool attractions in Grant County.
To learn more about outdoor adventures in Grant County, click here.
