Built on the former Norfolk Southern railbed, the Nickel Plate Trail will someday stretch 18 miles from Indianapolis through Fisher to Noblesville.
Currently, the 12- to 14-foot-wide paved pedestrian trail is about 8 miles long as it runs between Pleasant Street in Noblesville and almost to 96th Street in Fishers. Construction for a pedestrian bridge at 96th Street is expected to begin in 2024. Benches, pet waste stations, trash bins, and informational signage will continue to be added along the route in Fisher, as well as additional trail connections.
The Noblesville portion of the continuous trail runs south from Pleasant Street to 146th Street, where it seamlessly connects to the Fishers' section. There are two former railroad bridges converted into pedestrian bridges, as well as benches and trash bins located along the Noblesville portion of the route.
The Fishers section of the trail continues south from 146th almost to 96th Street, where a pedestrian bridge will provide a connection the portion that will be constructed in Indianapolis. There is a crossing with a warning signal at 141st street and a tunnel under 116th Street that allows trail-users to avoid waiting at the intersection. Enjoy the Blazing the Trail mural by artist, Becky Hochhalter. The mural features local landmarks and there 15 butterflies hidden within the scene—see how many you can spot. Leave the trail to explore the historic Nickel Plate District where you can grab a bite to eat, shop, and more. The Fishers YMCA and Fisher Parks' Maker Playground
Fishers has big plans for the landscaping and programming of the trail, including new public plazas, street furniture, public art and connections to downtown businesses.
The Nickel Plate Trail offers an enjoyable walk or ride on the path of the historic railroad, while promising even more to come. Together with the Midland Trace Trail and the Monon Trail, it will eventually form a 41+ mile loop of multiuse connected trails.
There is a smaller gravel parking lot on E 106th Street to the right of side of the trail. That lot also acts as a trailhead for the Cheeney Creek Natural Area. There is also a drinking fountain, bike racks, and benches.
Visit the TrailLink map for detailed directions.
The trail in Noblesville is now open from 146th ST to Pleasant Street. To cross 146th ST, do so at the cross walk light at Herriman Blvd, which is just east of the Nickel PlateTrail (NPT). This short section of the NPT is also quite nice, wooded and feels remote as it parallels the White River. The two repurposed train bridges cross Allisonville Road and Stony Creek.
The trail now goes does Close to 96th street. So the length is 96th to 146th street. Now the distance is just short of 6 miles
Update (4/23) – construction of the Noblesville section has commenced! according to the Noblesville government update, an anticipated completion date iwill be November 2023. This will be a great connector between Indy, Fishers and Noblesville. The trail will ultimately tie into the Midland Trace Trail to the north and the Fall Creek and the Monon Trails in Indianapolis to the south.
5 miles and counting we began at 106th street and rode up to 146th Street, on the way back rode through Downtown Fishers and to the top of the parking garage, good fun, split off of the main trail and headed Back North on the old trail that follows the creek with lots of twists and turns. Great ride. Smooth all the way and very well maintained.
Love our Nicole Plate Trail here in Fishers. No interruptions at 116th due to the new tunnel. The tunnel is short and full of light. You can take stairs up to swings on the former trains “Boarding” area. A fun environment
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