Grant County is the home of “Classic Cool” sports cars, motorcycles, a comic strip cat and an iconic movie star. But the coolest thing that you can do today is to help flatten the curve. With that being said, there still is a cure for cabin fever and that is to enjoy nature! Visiting a park or hiking trail is allowed during Indiana’s current travel and “shelter in place” restrictions.
Springtime is here and that means warmer weather is right around the corner. Go take a big breath of fresh air and enjoy the outdoors right here in Grant County. Below is our list of fun outdoor activities to enjoy this Spring.
Garfield Trail
Marion, Indiana
One of the most unique outdoor experiences in Grant County is the Garfield Trail. Fairmount, Indiana is the hometown to Jim Davis, the creator of the comic strip Garfield. The Garfield Trail has 14 unique statues in honor of everyone’s favorite, lasagna-loving fat cat.
This is the perfect time to get out of the house and enjoy a breath of fresh air, while snapping a selfie with Garfield to share with all of your friends.
Matter Park
Upland, Indiana
Open year-round, Matter Park is the oldest and largest park in Grant County. Possessing a strong naturalistic character, this park is the perfect place to enjoy nature on a sunny day. Take a stroll down the winding trails and discover playful statues, gurgling waterfalls, spraying fountains, a koi pond, and a butterfly garden that fosters the livelihood of Monarch butterflies, all nestled in the center of the century-old park.
The Gardens of Matter Park are rich with over 7,000 colorful annual plants. Matter Park is a Proven Winners Signature Garden, a prestigious designation awarded to only a handful of gardens nationwide.
Cumberland Covered Bridge in Matthews
Upland, IN
Built in 1877, the Cumberland Covered Bridge in Matthews is the last remaining covered bridge in Grant County. This is a serene spot for a homemade picnic on a warm spring day. Spanning the Mississinewa River, the Matthews Covered Bridge boasts a beautiful and scenic view.
Traditionally, the bridge is the site of the annual Matthews Covered Bridge Festival on the weekend after Labor Day. Come daydream of brighter days ahead, while enjoying the beautiful springtime weather.
Cardinal Greenway
Marion, Indiana
Get out of the house and experience miles of hiking, biking or jogging along a portion of the Cardinal Greenway located throughout Grant County. The trail used to be a railroad line, but today it’s a wonderful paved pathway for everyone to utilize for fitness and recreation. You’ll feel refreshed by the beautiful scenery that the trails have to offer, and taking a walk or a ride is the perfect way to get some exercise.
While enjoying the great outdoors, be sure to stay safe and practice six-foot social distancing when it matters most! To learn more about outdoor activities in Grant County, click here.
While enjoying the great outdoors, be sure to stay safe and practice six-foot social distancing when it matters most! To learn more about outdoor activities in Grant County, click here.
