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Print Friendly MapThe Wabashiki Trail sits on the traces the perimeter of the Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area, leaving travelers with the dual experience of nature and suburbia on either side. Great for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, the Wabashiki wetlands are an oasis in West Terre Haute. The trail begins at the Dewey Point trailhead along US 40, and then travels south before bending northwards, forming a U-shape around the nearby neighborhood. For the initial stretch of trail, you are in very close proximity to people's backyards, this is a safe place to be on the trail and dogs are fenced. The next several miles wind through the woods, and this is easily the best part of the trail. However, after 5 miles or so, the trail emerges into a trailer park and ends abruptly, leaving a person confused as to where they are and in a neighborhood with unfenced dogs. This part is not recommended for lone runners or walkers, and you'll see that most cutting through this neighborhood are in groups. It is best to turn back around here and do the 5 miles back the way you came to Dewey Point. Otherwise, you're forced to cut through the neighborhood, then walk along US 40, which is a 4 lane road with no shoulder. There is a foot long strip of grass along the lefthand side on the side of the guard rail that can be walked along, but it drops steeply into the water and is covered in weeds and litter. Walking here is NOT recommended until the city finishes this trail. Count on getting in a good 10 miles and turn around when you reach the trailer park.
Parking is available at the Dewey Point trailhead (110 E National Ave).
The trail is well maintained and offers a relaxing ride through the wetlands outside of West Terre Haute. Plenty of wildlife encountered on the trail from rabbits to turkeys to deer. Even better is that the pedestrian walkway adjacent to US 40 is now open. This creates a loop completely safe from traffic. The only road riding is though a sleepy little neighborhood. The “no trespassing” signs seen on the trail are on private property. Most likely to keep people from cutting through yards to get to the streets. Mosquitos, when stopped, are the main downside this time of year.
My daughter and I took a quick walk down the trail from parking at National to the other parking area where the new trail may start at move east. My question is why are the No Trespassing signs still up on the levees? Trail conditions where great but it leads one to wonder if it’s really an open trail. I will be photographing in this area and look forward to more access into the area.
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