Looking for a relaxing nature trail to take a bike ride or walk on, or looking for a great date idea? Look no further, Shipshewana is the proud home to the local Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. Spend as little or as long as you would like on this trail, and enjoy the beautiful sights of Shipshewana, and its neighboring towns.
About
The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is a nature trail that is connected to two other trails, the Maple City Greenway, and the MapleHeart Trail. It goes through the towns of Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury, and our town of Shipshewana. The trail totals 25 miles and the surface is asphalt except for a small 1.75 section in Goshen. There are four public parks along the trails that provide parking and restrooms along the way.
Trail Etiquette
Here is a list of trail rules and etiquette that can be found on the Pumpkinvine Website.
- Trail is open sunrise to sunset.
- No unauthorized motor vehicles, mobility assisted devices are authorized.
- Stop and look for cross traffic at intersections.
- Leave plants and wildlife in their natural settings.
- No hunting or trapping.
- No weapons: with the exception of firearms that may not be discharged.
- Horses are prohibited.
- Pets must be on a leash (maximum six feet), clean up pet waste.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
- No littering or disposing of refuse.
- Fireworks are not allowed.
- No fires and camping.
- Stay on the trail and respect the rights and privacy of adjacent neighbors.
- Walk and ride on the right and pass on the left after sounding an alarm.
- Walkers and runners have the right-of-way.
- Be cautious and stay to the right on curves, underpasses, bridges, and intersections.
- Do not block the trail.
Trail Access
The trail can be accessed in a few spots throughout the towns it connects. It can be accessed in Oxbow Park, Fifth Street, Abshire Park, Co. Rd. 33 & 35, Middlebury Trails, Town Hall – Middlebury, Co. Rd. 43, and in Shipshewana.
Rentals
If you’re wanting to bike but did not come to Shipshewana equipped with bikes, don’t worry! There are a few spots in the local area that offer the option to rent bicycles.
- Lincoln Avenue Cycling (Goshen)
- Pumpkinvine Cyclery (Middlebury)
Events
Make sure and check out the Pumpkinvine Website as there is a number of events held each year on the trail. You can even schedule your own event if you wish, just click the link HERE to get started on scheduling your event.
The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is the perfect family friendly activity in Shipshewana! If you are looking to explore the Amish countryside, get some exercise, or just for a fun activity, then this the thing for you! We hope to see you on the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail soon.