Allen County and Fort Wayne, Indiana are full of wonderful trails offering a wide variety of walking and hiking options.

Of course, in warmer months these trails are full of color and lively plants. But winter is quite an exciting time to get out and explore the trails. A covering of snow makes it all the more magical.

Check out my recommendations below for winter trail exploration!

Plan a Winter Adventure in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Winter Walks and Hikes in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Peaceful, Smooth Walks

The city of Fort Wayne does a great job clearing the Rivergreenway of snow and ice. I love the St. Marys Pathway! Start at beautiful Promenade Park in downtown Fort Wayne and head south along the river, or walk a loop around Foster Park just south of downtown. Since the snow is cleared from this trail, you can even ride your bike!

Promenade Park in Winter

If you are looking for some seasonal flair, the trail loop around Solomon Farm Park is often decorated for the season. 

Hikes to Explore Nature

On the trails at Lindenwood Nature Preserve, you will feel like you are in the deep woods, but you are only minutes from downtown.

Eagle Marsh

If you want to get out a little further, lace up those hiking boots and grab your binoculars. Just off Lima road is a little-known park called Payton County Park. For a larger more established park, try Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve. It offers great wildlife viewing and miles of open trails.

Bicentennial Woods

ACRES Land Trust has a pair of preserves in Northern Allen County that should not be missed. Bicentennial Woods has 2.6 miles of trails through woods that include trees over 200 years old.  Nearby Dustin Nature Preserve has 1.8 miles of trails along Cedar Creek, one of only three designated Indiana Natural, Scenic, and Recreational Rivers. Find more winter hikes at ACRES nature preserves here.

Cross-Country Skiing Opportunities

Skiing in the Park

Looking for a more urban backdrop? Bring your own cross-country skis and take to the trails at Headwaters Park! Located in downtown Fort Wayne, Headwaters Park offers open spaces for skiing just steps away from delicious dining, attractions, and even the outdoor ice skating rink.

Insider Tips:

Be sure to dress in layers and bring your phone and water bottle.  

  • You might be warm while you are walking but when you get in the shade, or a breeze picks up things can get cold.  
  • It gets dark earlier in the wintertime and you don’t want to be caught out in the dark.  Most phones have a flashlight feature and will allow you to look up where you are on a map to get you home safe and sound. 
  • Many places do not have their facilities open in the winter. Be prepared to not have restrooms or drinking water available.
  • Explore other winter activities Fort Wayne has to offer!