Biking
Roads near the Hoosier are where the classic bicycle film "Breaking Away" was filmed - and nearby in Bloomington, Indiana is where Indiana University annually holds the Little 500 bike race so bicycling is a popular sport in this part of the world and bikes frequently share roads and trails.
E-Biking
Outdoor electric assist devices (sometimes called e-bikes) are classified as motor vehicles by the Forest Service and are only allowed where motor vehicles are allowed. They are prohibited on non-motorized trails.
Mountain Biking
The Hoosier has many miles of trails available for mountain biking. Terrain on these trails varies from rolling hills and level ridgetops to some very challenging hills and steep slopes. These are multi-use trails, not designed exclusively for mountain bikes. The trails are shared with horseback riders and hikers. Always wear a helmet and be careful.
Outdoor electric assist devices (sometimes called e-bikes) are classified as motor vehicles by the Forest Service and are only allowed where motor vehicles are allowed. They are prohibited on non-motorized trails.
Trails are open year-round but can be muddy. Riding is best in June, September, and October. Watch for hunters, especially during deer season. A trail permit is required for riders 17 years of age or older to ride mountain bikes on Forest trails. Trail permits may be purchased at any of our offices or from local vendors.
Loose limbs and hazard trees can fall on the trail at any time, be especially careful on windy days. We make an effort to remove hazard trees when we are aware of them, but we need your help. Please report any hazard trees or large limbs across the trail to our offices.
Road Cycling
There are a variety of public roads which provide leisurely scenic rides for bicyclists. Bikers should be cautioned that they may encounter local traffic, large trucks, and dogs.
Recreation areas with a few miles of interior roads suitable for cycling are listed below.
Search for Biking Opportunities
Showing: 1 - 10 of 16 results
Birdseye Trail
Birdseye Trail is an 11.6 mile multiple use trail which allows for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. This trail winds through shady hardwood forests and covers a variety of terrain. Along the…
Brown County D Trail
This multiple-use trail links trails on the Brown County State Park and Yellowwood State Forest to the Hoosier National Forest. The trail ties in with a county road which then has a short piece along…
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is located on Monroe Lake south of Bloomington, Indiana. This recreation area offers six campground loops, two picnic areas and three shelterhouses, two of which…
Hardin Ridge Trail
A 2-mile hiking and bicycle trail runs from the day use area to the various campground loop. This trail roughly follows the main campground road and provides a safe surface for families to hike or…
Hickory Ridge Trail
This 48.7 mile trail designed for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking is made up of a variety of long and short loops that wind through scenic hardwoods providing a chance to get away from…
Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area
Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area is located two miles south of Interstate 64 off Indiana 37. It offers opportunities for both overnight and day use, with two camping loops and two lakes that…
Lick Creek Trail
This 7.1 mile trail available for hiking, mountain bike riding and horse riding winds through scenic hardwood forest. The trail passes through an early 19th century free African American settlement;…
Mogan Ridge West Trail
This 12.3 mile trail is designated for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking and winds through scenic hardwood forests and barrens, past interesting rock outcrops and for hikers- ties in with the…
Nebo Ridge Trail
This 8.6 mile trail is designated for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. The trail offers scenic views from the ridge-top trail and is a bit of a rollercoaster of ups and downs.A downloadable…
Oriole East Trail
This 6.5 mile trail is designated for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. The trail winds through scenic hardwood forests. It connects to the adjacent 7.2 mile Oriole West Trail.Click here for…