The Hawpatch Trail Project
Full Steam Ahead on the Hawpatch Trail!
LaGrange County has a strong affinity for all things historic, homegrown and handmade. From our distinctive heritage to our residents’ commitments to their crafts, to our serene and scenic surroundings, and beyond—life takes on a slower pace.
For nearly 90 years, the railroad connected these uniquely LaGrange County experiences to others across the region. Today, that same rail has a renewed purpose—reconnecting our past with our present by offering a safe path for work, recreation and more.
The line is back on track, and the Hawpatch Trail is full steam ahead.
What’s the Hawpatch Trail?
Built upon one of LaGrange County’s historic rail lines, the Hawpatch Trail is essential, high-quality infrastructure that will provide a safe and reliable path for bicyclists between Wolcottville, Topeka, Millersburg and beyond—increasing opportunities for health, well-being and recreation for LaGrange County residents and visitors.
The 17-mile trail creates a safe path away from the main roads used by semi-trucks, box trucks and farm vehicles. For many residents—especially within the Amish community—bicycling is a primary mode of transportation, yet narrow rural roads can pose serious safety risks. The Hawpatch Trail addresses this need while expanding opportunities for health, recreation and well-being for residents, workers, families and visitors.
By reactivating a historic rail line, the trail honors local heritage, fosters community pride, and lays the foundation for regional growth. As it connects to trail systems in Noble and Elkhart Counties, the Hawpatch Trail will support workforce mobility and help drive long-term economic growth.
Current Condition of the Historic Rail Line
Connecting Our Communities
The Hawpatch Trail is part of a growing trail network in northern Indiana.
- 9.2 miles southeast of the Pumpkinvine Trail (Goshen to Shipshewana)
- 2.5 miles north of the Fishing Line Trail (Wolcottville to Kendallville)
These connections strengthen regional mobility, tourism and economic opportunity.
Together, we’re building a safer, healthier and more connected LaGrange County.
Who Is the Trail For?
It’s for Residents
For many LaGrange County residents—especially within the Amish community—bicycling is a primary form of transportation. The Hawpatch Trail will provide a safe, reliable alternative to narrow, heavily trafficked roads, improving quality of life and offering new ways to explore the county.
It’s for Visitors
The Hawpatch Trail offers visitors a scenic, safe way to explore LaGrange County at their own pace. With convenient connections to neighboring county trails, visitors can easily access uniquely local experiences—from discovering historic towns and shopping small businesses to enjoying lakes, parks and the county’s natural beauty.
It’s for Workers
The Hawpatch Trail will offer a dependable transportation option for employees commuting by bicycle between Wolcottville, Topeka, Millersburg and nearby communities.
It’s for the Economy
By connecting to regional trail systems, the Hawpatch Trail will support workforce development, strengthen property values, and catalyze future development and collaboration, boosting economic growth across our region.
Get Involved!
The Hawpatch Trail is a community-driven project, and your support matters.
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How Hawpatch Got Its Name
The name “Hawpatch” comes from an area in Noble and LaGrange Counties near Topeka, originally covered with tall timber like walnut, sugar and elm, with flowers and black haw bushes on the ground. Early writers described it as similar to northern LaGrange County’s prairies, but forested. Black and red haw bushes, along with hawthorn trees, grew among the hardwoods, giving the area its name. Since it was unique to Indiana and known early on as Hawpatch, we chose this name for the trail to honor our history and native ecosystem.
Like to learn more?
If you would like to learn more or have questions about the Hawpatch Trail, we would love to hear from you.
