Highlight • Cycleway
Cycling
5.0
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The Oak Savannah Trail – Hobart Prairie Grove is a popular multi-use pathway stretching approximately 10 miles across Northwest Indiana, connecting the towns of Hobart and Griffith. This scenic trail, which reaches an elevation of about 202 meters, is a significant part of the region's trail network and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. A notable two-mile section of the trail runs directly through the 300-acre Hobart Prairie Grove, a protected area within the expansive Indiana…
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September 5, 2022
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June 12, 2021
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Best routes near Oak Savannah Trail
96.9km
05:45
170m
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14
riders
147km
08:23
230m
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
18
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
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Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Yes, the trail is highly suitable for beginners and those with limited mobility. It features a paved, well-maintained surface and a relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for cyclists, walkers, and even strollers. It is also wheelchair accessible.
While the trail is very popular for outdoor activities, specific regulations regarding dogs within the Hobart Prairie Grove section, which is part of Indiana Dunes National Park, may apply. Generally, pets are allowed on trails in the National Park System but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Always ensure to clean up after your pet.
Convenient access points and parking are available at several locations. You can find parking at the Robinson Lake parking lot off South Liverpool Road in Hobart. Additionally, there is dedicated parallel street parking on South Wisconsin Street in Hobart. The eastern trailhead is located at 4 North Hobart Road, Hobart, IN, and the western trailhead is at 301 South Colfax Street, Griffith, IN.
The Oak Savannah Trail is a popular destination, particularly on weekends and during pleasant weather. To avoid busier times and ensure a more tranquil experience, it is strongly recommended to arrive earlier in the morning. This also helps secure parking, which can fill up quickly.
The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting due to its diverse ecosystems. The Hobart Prairie Grove section alone boasts 343 native plant species, supporting abundant wildlife. Along Lake George, you can observe various waterfowl like geese, ducks, and ring-billed gulls. The rare bur oak savanna and wetlands also provide habitats for numerous species.
While the trail itself is primarily a natural escape, the towns of Hobart and Griffith, which the trail connects, offer various amenities. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these towns. It's advisable to check local listings for specific establishments near the eastern trailhead in Hobart or the western trailhead in Griffith.
The trail is enjoyable throughout the year, and winter offers a different kind of beauty. As a paved trail, it may be suitable for winter walking or fat biking, depending on snow accumulation. However, conditions can vary, and it's always best to check local weather forecasts and trail reports before heading out during winter months. Some sections might be less maintained for snow removal.
Yes, the Oak Savannah Trail is a crucial part of a larger recreational network. In Hobart, it seamlessly connects with the Prairie Duneland Trail, which extends eastward towards Chesterton and Porter. On its western end in Griffith, it links to the Erie Lackawanna Trail and the Chesapeake and Ohio Greenway, offering extensive options for longer rides and exploration.
The Oak Savannah Trail is a 'rail trail,' meaning it utilizes the corridor of a former railway line. Specifically, it follows the path of the old Porter Branch of the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway, which operated from 1888 until 1984, primarily transporting grain, meat, fruit, vegetables, and coal. The Hobart Prairie Grove section was added to the National Park System in 1992.
Absolutely! A notable feature is the picturesque Lake George, part of the Deep River. From a trail bridge, visitors can access platforms that offer unique vantage points overlooking a beautiful lily pad-covered section of the lake. The entire Hobart Prairie Grove section, with its rare bur oak savanna and diverse plant life, is also a significant natural landmark.