Carmel is filled with scenic walking paths and peaceful green escapes, perfect for anyone craving a bit of fresh air and outdoor adventure. Whether you want a stroller-friendly boardwalk, wooded trails for a leisurely stroll, or somewhere your dog can tag along, there’s a trail nearby that fits the bill.
Let’s get to it.
Central Park Boardwalk
Central Park Boardwalk in Carmel offers a variety of easygoing loops without steep climbs. Each circuit covers about six miles: the East Loop and West Loop circle serene woodlands, while the Woodland Garden & Boardwalk Loop threads through wetlands, prairies, and forested areas. Trails remain flat, with surfaces alternating between boardwalk planks, paved paths, gravel, and mulch.
Along the way, you’ll spot waterfowl, a fishing pond, and bright wildflower meadows. Shaded benches appear just when you need a rest, and pet waste stations keep the area tidy. You might pass someone walking a goldendoodle or chasing after a toddler. Dogs are welcome on leash, except in the off-leash dog park section.
Parking is generally plentiful, and restrooms are conveniently located. Almost all paths accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, and warning signs mark any slick boardwalk sections. The park sees more visitors on weekends, but mornings and late afternoons usually offer a quieter experience.
Flowing Well Park
Flowing Well Park has built its reputation on a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Its historic artesian well, known locally as “Old Faithful,” has flowed for decades at the park’s heart. The main trail measures between one and one and a half miles, featuring only ten to fifteen feet of elevation change. Most of the path is compacted dirt, while the front section offers a paved surface that accommodates strollers and wheelchairs. Ample shade under mature trees provides relief on hot days.
Benches and picnic areas appear just when you need a break. The route crosses Cool Creek on sturdy footbridges with safety railings, and spring wildflowers add bursts of color along the way. Visitors often see small birds and squirrels, and leashed dogs are welcome.
Parking can fill up during summer months, but year-round restrooms and bike racks are always available. Shelters with built-in grills invite casual cookouts. Recent renovations keep the grounds clean and minimize mud patches, so you can focus on the steady flow of the historic spring.
Coxhall Gardens
Coxhall Gardens in Carmel strikes a balance between accessibility and scenic variety. The main loop stretches 1.4 miles with only about sixteen feet of elevation gain, making it perfect for strollers and walkers. Wide paved paths pass through prairie wetlands and skirt a shimmering recreation lake complete with a fishing dock. Two towering bell towers rise ninety feet beside the trails. The Children’s Garden features echo walls and peek-a-boo hills that delight visitors of all ages.
The park remains clean, peaceful, and rarely overcrowded. AllTrails users award it a 4.7 out of 5 rating for reliable restrooms and clear signage. Accessible benches sit at regular intervals, and picnic shelters include water fountains. Seasonal restrooms replace usual portable units. Leashed dogs share the paths comfortably, and the surface stays passable even after light snowfall. In spring the prairie blooms with wildflowers, and fall brings a display of colorful foliage. With its mix of prairie, woods, and water features, Coxhall Gardens offers an easy, breezy loop that still leaves a lasting impression.
Prather Park
Prather Park offers a blend of prairie, woodland, and wetland across 62 acres west of Carmel. Trails total just under two miles in combined loops and out-and-back sections, with minimal hills and mostly paved or well-packed gravel surfaces. This layout suits strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers who prefer a gentle route.
Along the path, views of the White River appear at several overlooks. Wildflowers bloom in summer and migratory birds pass through in spring and fall. After heavy rain, some patches near the water may soften, but most paths drain quickly. Benches sit at intervals for rest or wildlife observation.
Facilities include a clean restroom building near the parking area. A playground offers subtle archaeology themes, and river access points serve anglers and paddlers. Organized fields for soccer and baseball lie just beyond the main loop, so weekend games add a pleasant hum rather than obstruct the trails. Dogs remain on leash throughout. Trail signs mark every intersection and maintenance crews keep surfaces clear… no overgrown brush or persistent mud. Prather Park is ideal for anyone seeking a calm outdoor escape with varied scenery and dependable amenities.
Carey Grove Park
In Carey Grove Park, you get a compact yet versatile setting that covers all the neighborhood park essentials. The paved loop measures under one-third of a mile, completely flat, with wide paths for strollers and wheelchairs. Shade trees dot the open grassy fields, and a modern playground with musical play spots stands nearby. A few benches offer seating without competition.
Restrooms are open year-round, and the park features water fountains and bottle-refill stations. Picnic shelters stand ready for group lunches or portable grills. Parking includes ADA spaces, so you never face a long walk just to reach the entrance. Certain sections allow off-leash dogs, making it a popular spot for owners and their pets.
Recent upgrades have refreshed the grounds since the 2020 overhaul. Paths stay clear, landscaping remains tidy, and playground equipment shows minimal wear. You can usually spot families, dogs, or a lone jogger during weekdays. The straightforward layout keeps traffic flowing smoothly… no hidden corners or surprise obstacles. For anyone seeking a clean, fuss-free space close to home, Carey Grove Park hits the mark.
Founders Park
At Founders Park in Carmel, you find a straightforward 37-acre neighborhood park with playgrounds, sports fields, wide-open meadows, and easy trails. The Nature and Park Loop is 1.2 miles long, part paved and part dirt, with only 22 feet of elevation change, so there are no steep hills to slow down a leisurely walk or a stroller. Along the path, a fishing pond comes into view, squirrels dart across the trail, and benches appear just when you need a break. Dogs on leash are welcome, and you rarely encounter more than a few speed-walkers or geese.
Park maintenance is reliable. Restrooms stay stocked, trails remain free of mud, and parking is available unless a youth league fills the lot. Benches line the meadows and sports fields, making it easy to pause and watch a pick-up game or enjoy the view.
For more distance, try the 4.3-mile Founders Park to Plum Creek Golf Course loop. It is fully paved with a handful of street crossings but no chance of getting lost. The bike lanes merge smoothly with the path and the grounds never feel crowded. Families, walkers, and solitude seekers each find a quiet corner here.
Cool Creek Park Nature Center
Cool Creek Park Nature Center provides more than four miles of easy-to-navigate trails. The paved Beech Trail measures 0.9 miles, so strollers and wheelchairs move comfortably. Benches and picnic tables appear at regular intervals near the creek banks, offering spots for snacks or brief breaks.
The Tulip/PawPaw Trail Loop threads through shaded forest alongside a flowing creek. Leashed dogs and early-morning walkers appreciate the solitude here. Well-maintained footbridges and short boardwalk segments cross small streams, while interpretive signs explain the surrounding habitats. Birdwatchers often record sightings of songbirds, woodpeckers, and waterfowl.
The Nature Center sits at the trailhead with educational exhibits and year-round restrooms. Bike racks and nearby parking make arrival and departure smooth. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the path edges, and in autumn the canopy shifts to fiery reds and golds. With its clean grounds and accessible routes, this park delivers a rewarding outdoor visit for all ages.
Lawrence W. Inlow Park
Lawrence W. Inlow Park packs a lot into its compact 16-acre space. A 0.4-mile loop winds through mostly paved terrain with sections of soft rubber mulch that evoke a woodland setting. With only about three feet of elevation gain, this path serves strollers and walkers of all ages.
Three treehouse-style playgrounds sit alongside the trail, and a splash pad entertains children from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors can also challenge friends on the pickleball courts or try the disc golf targets. Shaded picnic shelters include electrical outlets for charging devices, while benches scattered around the park offer restful spots.
Regular maintenance keeps the grounds spotless, and the pathway remains smooth and accessible year-round. Leashed dogs are welcome, and early mornings may even reveal a few running off-leash in quieter areas. Parking fills quickly on summer weekends, but arriving early secures a spot. Restrooms stay open all year, making this park a reliable choice for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
River Heritage Park
Opened on the banks of the White River, River Heritage Park surprises with thoughtful design that outshines many urban green spaces. The main trail forms a one-mile loop that remains accessible for most visitors. The surface alternates between soft rubber, smooth asphalt, and elevated boardwalks that extend over river views. The wide path could accommodate a golf cart… though it remains open solely to foot and bike traffic.
Benches line the route at regular intervals, and the grade never exceeds 3%, making the trail easy for strollers and wheelchairs. The inclusive playground features a universally accessible zip line, encouraging participation from all ages and abilities. Off-leash areas allow dogs to roam under supervision, and trash cans and restrooms stay well-stocked and clean. Even on busy weekends, the park rarely feels crowded, and picnic areas offer plenty of space. October’s fall foliage adds seasonal color to the woods, providing memorable river lookout spots.
Meadowlark Park
Meadowlark Park provides 19 acres of compact outdoor space featuring a 1.2-mile loop around a stocked fishing pond. The paved trail gains roughly 16 feet in elevation, making it easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual walkers. A boardwalk extends over wetlands, keeping any gravel off the path and offering a close-up view of marsh plants.
Along the loop, rubber-turf playgrounds stand near benches and a fishing pier. Courts for basketball and pickleball sit just off the main path, ready for quick games. Family restrooms include changing tables and water fountains with bottle refill stations.
Parking is available near the entrance, and designated off-leash areas let dogs stretch their legs under supervision. Trail repairs remain fresh and the boardwalk looks recently resurfaced. Ducks and geese gather near the shoreline without overcrowding the space. Most afternoons see moderate use as families arrive for fishing or court sports, but weekday visits can feel nearly empty. Meadowlark Park stays tidy and offers just enough variety for short visits or extended outings on paved paths.
West Park
West Park presents 120 acres of recreational options in Carmel. The main loop runs 2.1 miles with about 16 feet of elevation change. Paved paths accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, while dirt and wooden boardwalk trails lead through the marsh and meadows.
At the park’s center, a pond features a fishing pier and benches along the shoreline. Playgrounds and a splash pad activate in summer months, while Jill’s Hill offers sledding in winter. Wildflowers edge many trails and songbirds frequent the marsh boardwalk.
Restrooms stay open year-round and parking is plentiful. Trail markers help visitors navigate intersections and picnic tables beneath shade trees invite outdoor meals. On weekends the park can become busy, especially around the playground and splash pad, but weekday mornings remain peaceful. Dogs are allowed on certain trails without a leash, depending on signage. Ample bike racks and clear maps at trailheads add to convenience. Recent renovations improved trail surfaces, signage, and seating areas. West Park combines open fields, water features, and play zones into one accessible setting for casual visitors and active families alike.
