The MapleHeart Trail travels nearly 5 miles from the city of Elkhart south to the outskirts of Goshen. A planned extension will continue the trail another 3 miles into downtown Goshen and connect it to the
Pumpkinvine Nature Trail.
The trail parallels County Road 45 and the Norfolk & Southern Railroad through residential and commercial areas.
Mid-trail, you'll arrive at Ox Bow County Park, named for the u-shaped bend in the Elkhart River. Enjoy the natural plant and wildlife habitats here, as well as the wide range of recreational amenities offered, including athletic fields, horseshoe pits, a disc golf course, playgrounds, an archery range and a canoe launch.
Parking lots and trail access are available in Ox Bow County Park (23427 County Road 45, Elkhart). From US 20, turn south onto US 33 and proceed about 2.5 miles to Ferndale Road. Turn left (east) across the railroad tracks to arrive at the park entrance.
In October 2011, the MapleHeart, which connects to the Maple City Greenway at the Goshen city limits, was connected to the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail on Goshen's north side. As a result, you can now ride off road for about 15 miles starting at Hively Ave. ...