The ICV trail was one of the first rail-trails I rode back in 2008. The Jones Mills Extension had not been completed at that time, so with these short daylight hours, I thought it a good subject for a close trail only 22 miles from home. Yes, the two small Somerset Trust Bank lots in Champion are about the ONLY place to park near the north end of the trail. The 1.3 mile extension north of Champion is very crude, just two narrow tracks of crushed limestone, with lots of weed growth. Nevertheless the trail is smooth enough, and, south of Champion, most of the limestone cover is long gone. The JM Extension makes it right up to the south end of Jones Mills, and accessible to town at PA-31. There is a nice pizza shop on 31 at the west end of town. The trail can't go any further north, as the concrete piers are all that is left of a large bridge at the trail's northern terminus. That's a shame, because there is an interesting railroad tunnel at the railroad's former underpass of Route 31. Timber forested off Laurel Mountain exited to the B&O main via the ICV, southward, after the PW&S/Ligonier Valley RR outlet to the north closed in 1916. Heading south from Champion (We'll call that Mile 1.3), the trail is a "mild rollercoaster", but the ruling grade is definitely downhill from Champion. This trail offers a very beautiful overlook of the Indian Creek valley on its west side, with lots of interesting homes and backyards to either admire or mystify over. Classy homes, a gaggle of abandoned pickup trucks, and lots of summer camps down there. 2.8 miles south of Champion, the first railroad relic appears. The substantial, curved, steel plate girder Melcroft Trestle carries a 0.2 mile westward trail spur over to a decent-sized trail parking area on the west side of PA 381 / 711. For supplies or a snack, there is a general store just north of this highway crossing on 381 / 711. This is the most logical parking and access spot to the northern section of the trail. The ICV IS a nice, "friendly" trail, indeed a very "pleasant ride" in an unspoiled and quiet natural setting. -Rich Ballash 11/13/11

Another reviewer described the ride as "pleasant." That's exactly the word for it. The ride parallels the Indian River Creek, and is just nice. One note, the trail head off county road is easy to miss. It is directly across from the bank, immediately after the bridge. You can park at the bank during non-business hours.

"Found this delightful ride after joining a camping resort nearby. One of the nicest rides for its size I've done. Scenic, peaceful, and even well landscaped in spots. Above average! Would be nice to see it all the way to the river!"