Featured Ride: Brown County State Park, Indiana

This ride and accompany photos come to us from MTB Project.

Many people out west were left scratching their heads when the International Mountain Bicycling Association bestowed “Epic” status on Brown County State Park in southern Indiana. But folks who ride these trails on a regular basis had their own question: “What took so long?”

This 28-mile route showcases much of the Brown County State Park trail system, save for about 6 miles of black-diamond trail that you’re more than welcome to add on. There are actually more than 100 miles of trails in the area to be ridden, though, so don’t stop exploring after this ride.

This featured route has flow and tons of it. The trails have intermediate elevation changes and abound with flowy downhill sections that are nothing if not loads of fun. There’s one big climb up to Hesitation Point but otherwise you’re looking at a lot of up and down to keep you on your toes.

Brown County offers a true cross-country ride, one that singlespeeders reportedly love (or, at least appreciate). When you’re done, visit the nearby towns of Nashville (an artist’s hangout with galleries), Bloomington and Columbus. In all three you’ll find wineries, breweries and excellent places to eat.

Located about 40 miles south of Indianapolis, this state park also hosts the region’s biggest mountain bike festival: the Brown County Epic (October 7-9, 2016), run by the Hoosier Mountain Bike Association, the local IMBA chapter. Look it up if you’re in the area and enjoy the ride!