Parke Community Rail Trail completes Phase 1

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Parke Trails Alliance celebrated the opening of the first phase of the Parke Community Rail Trail today in Rosedale.

"Hoosiers overwhelmingly tell us that hiking and getting out on trails is their favorite form of outdoor recreation," said Allen Hurst, DNR trails manager. "Trails like the Parke Community Rail Trail provide a great way for Hoosiers to get outside, and at DNR, we're proud to support their construction."

The segment, 2.6 miles of hard-surface trail, was constructed by the nonprofit with help from a $5 million dedicated grant administered by the DNR.

Phase 1 stretches from Big Raccoon Creek, through Rosedale, to the Vigo County line. The section includes a repurposed railcar that was transformed into a cost-effective bridge.

When complete, the Parke Community Rail Trail will add more than 8 miles of trail between the Rockville Depot and the Vigo County line, connecting multiple cities. The project uses portions of the former Vandalia Railroad and will include eight bridges and four trailheads.

"Phase 1 is officially opening! This is the first of four phases of construction in completing the Parke Community Rail Trail," said Parke Trails Alliance board member Mark Davis. "This project is about more than just building a trail. It's about creative use of resources, local partnerships, and developing something that will benefit residents and visitors for generations."

DNR has led the largest infusion of trails funding in state history, with $180 million in dedicated trail funding administered through DNR that facilitates critical trail connections within and between Hoosier communities. A total of 49 of the 89 projects are complete, with another 19 under construction. With this opening, more than 145 miles of trail have been built since the program's inception.