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Print Friendly MapThe Mishawaka Riverwalk is a multiuse loop trail that winds along both banks of the St. Joseph River for 2.6 miles in the City of Mishawaka.
Pedestrian bridges provide connections between the northern and southern shores. At the trail's western end, there is a well-protected pedestrian walkway on the Logan Street Bridge. Midway along the route, the pedestrian St. Joseph River Suspension Bridge crosses the water between the east edge of Battell Park on the northern bank and the Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park on the south bank, where a second shorter bridge crosses a very small branch of the river that split off from the larger waterway. At the trail's southern end, a boardwalk footbridge crosses the river just before the dam and the Mishawaka Fish Ladder, which helps migratory fish access the lower 63 miles of river.
On the northern bank, the trail begins at its western endpoint on Logan Street, where it connects to Northside Trail. The 3-mile Northside Trail follows the river west to South Bend.
Heading east, the Mishawaka Riverwalk runs between Wilson Boulevard and the river. The route is lined with trees until it reaches Battell Park (301 W Mishawaka Ave), where there are restrooms, drinking fountains, parking, tennis courts, benches, a playground, and rock garden ponds. At the eastern end of the park, you can cross the river via the St. Joseph River Suspension Bridge and continue on the riverwalk in either direction.
This section has a paved concrete surface that somewhat resembles a wide sidewalk. The pathway is likely navigable for those using mobility devices and families with strollers. Winding through the park, the trail continues to head east with continuous views of the river unobstructed by trees and an even wider, smoother surface.
The trail passes the Ball Band Memorial Overlook (115 W Mishawaka Ave) and winds through Central Park (295 E Mishawaka Ave) before crossing the river via the boardwalk footbridge. Now heading west, the route continues to have unobstructed views of the water and a wide, smooth surface. The trail curves through Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park (Riverfront Park, 120 Ironworks Ave), which has picnic tables, drinking fountains, benches, relaxing water features, pretty gardens, parking, and the Ironworks Ice Rink.
Heading west, the route includes the shorter pedestrian bridge, and the Suspension Bridge offers the option to return to the northern bank. Staying on the south bank, the trail actually crosses a thin sliver of the river to wind through Kamm Island Park (600 W Front St). Returning to the mainland, the riverwalk has a small trailhead with public restrooms, parking, benches, and river access (86 Schellinger Square).
The trail passes a small garden with a gazebo—known as Kate's Garden—before reaching the Logan Street Bridge, which crosses the river and completes the riverwalk loop. There are a number of smaller connector pathways that provide connections to the riverwalk from the surrounding area.
Running along the shores of the St. Joseph River, this multiuse trail offers a smooth and enjoyable route with picturesque views of the water. Recent improvements include additional signage, scenic landscaping, and lighting. There are numerous overlooks and benches along the route, where you can rest and enjoy the views.
The riverwalk is easily accessible via South Bend's public transit system. Visit the Transpo website for more information.
Parking is available at Central Park (295 E Mishawaka Ave), Battell Park (301 W Mishawaka Ave), Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park (Riverfront Park, 120 Ironworks Ave), a small trailhead (86 Schellinger Square), and Kate's Garden next to Lincoln Park (1004 Lincolnway W). Visit the TrailLink map for all options and detailed directions.
Located in Mishawaka Indiana, it is one of the most scenic bike rides along the St. Joseph River. From this trail a rider can now ride from Central Park Mishawaka to Niles Michigan or Approximately 16.5 miles.
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