Gene Stratton Porter State Memorial

The Fishing Line Trail offers a delightful journey through Noble County, Indiana, primarily following a historic rail-trail corridor. You'll experience a mix of heavily wooded sections, providing a forest-like atmosphere, interspersed with views of Indiana farmland and rural charm. The trail's proximity to Sylvan Lake, particularly near Rome City, adds a beautiful aquatic element to the scenery, making it a pleasant escape into nature.

This moderate 10.9-mile (17.6 km) hiking route has a minimal 121 feet (37 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes to complete. Parking and restrooms are available near the Gene Stratton-Porter Historic Site, which is a great place to start. While mostly paved, some sections include on-road segments, so be mindful of traffic. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.

This trail is a prime example of a successful rail-trail conversion, repurposing an old railroad corridor to connect communities like Rome City and Kendallville. It's an inspiring local asset, with ongoing development, including recent extensions along Sylvan Lake in 2024. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like birds and squirrels as you explore this community connector.