St Joseph River bridge

The Howard Park Path offers a delightful urban escape, tracing the banks of the St. Joseph River in South Bend. This easy, paved route provides continuous picturesque views of the river and the city skyline, making it a refreshing stroll. You'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant park setting, with features like the interactive Rask Family Fountains adding a dynamic touch during warmer seasons.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is part of the larger Howard Park, a hub of activity. It's an ideal choice for families and is wheelchair accessible, with minimal elevation changes over its 0.8-mile (1.3 km) distance. Expect to spend about 20 minutes enjoying this route, which is accessible year-round, even transforming into a winter wonderland with an ice trail.

Beyond just a path, Howard Park is a destination with diverse amenities, including a state-of-the-art playground and dining options like the Howard Park Public House. The trail also connects to a wider network, including the Riverwalk/Northside Trail, offering opportunities for longer explorations of downtown South Bend's green spaces and viewpoints.