Erie Lackawanna Trail and Cedar Lake Loop

The full route, combining the Erie Lackawanna Trail and the Cedar Lake Loop, is approximately 59 kilometers (36.8 miles) long. For a racebike, it typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace.

Yes, the route is generally considered moderate and suitable for various skill levels. The Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail section is asphalt-paved and relatively flat, making it accessible. While some sections might have minor bumps, it's a good option for those new to road cycling.

The Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail portion is primarily asphalt-paved and known for its flat profile, following an old railway corridor. The Cedar Lake Loop sections, where paved, also offer smooth surfaces. While generally flat, some parts of the Erie Lackawanna Trail may have minor bumps and dips, and the Cedar Lake Loop might have gentle grade changes.

The route offers diverse scenery. Along the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail, you'll pass through wooded corridors, open prairies, wetlands, and urban areas, with both shaded and open grassy fields. The Cedar Lake sections provide picturesque views of the lake itself, often with opportunities to see urban wildlife and native plants.

Along the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail, especially near natural areas like the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve and Oak Ridge Prairie County Park, you might spot bald eagles, deer, and herons. The Cedar Lake areas also offer chances to observe various bird species.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best times for cycling this route. The diverse scenery, including wildflowers and changing leaves, is particularly enjoyable. While winter cycling is possible, be aware of potential snow and ice conditions on the paved surfaces.

Parking is available at multiple access points along the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail. Specific parking areas can be found at various trailheads along its length. For the Cedar Lake Loop, access points often have dedicated parking, such as on Shaver Road NE for some Cedar Lake trails.

Generally, dogs are allowed on the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail and similar paved multi-use paths, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check local regulations for specific sections, especially around the Cedar Lake areas, but most paved trails are dog-friendly with proper etiquette.

No, typically there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail or the paved Cedar Lake Loop sections. These are generally public access trails.

Yes, the route is part of Indiana's expanding trail network. The Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail connects with trails like the Monon Trail, Little Calumet River Levee Trail, and Oak Savannah Trail. It also forms part of the vision for the 3,700-mile Great American Rail-Trail. This specific komoot route also passes through sections of the ADT - Indiana (North) - G - Seg 3 and 37 (Indiana).

The Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail follows the corridor of the former Erie Lackawanna Railway, an important freight route. You can see historical sites like the Griffith Historical Park, which features a preserved 1911 Grand Trunk Western Railroad depot and a 1924 brick interlocking tower.