Hipmunk Hotels: Best Outdoor Hiking & Biking in the Midwest. Wichita, Lansing, South Bend and More.

For the outdoor adventurer looking to explore the USA, the Midwest has a lot to offer. This region of the United States is also known as “America’s Heartland,” a combination of eight states with hiking and biking trails that wind through a diverse representation of landscapes.

There is no better way to explore the outdoors than by taking advantage of the extensive trails on offer here. The following are among the best opportunities for hiking and biking in the Midwest: Wichita, Kansas; Bloomington, Minnesota; Lansing, Michigan; Rosemont, Illinois; and South Bend, Indiana.

Wichita Walking Trails

There are some fabulous walking trails throughout Wichita, all within close reach of the city’s cheapest hotels (consider Wesley Inn or Marriott Wichita).

Chisholm Creek Park is a beautiful spot with trails winding through lush native Kansas trees, plants, and grasses, and you will feel as if you are a million miles from civilization. Starting at the WATER Center, the Hermann Hill Park nature trail is another noteworthy walking spot; it follows a manmade creek down to the Arkansas River.

Photo CC by brick1083

Off-road Trails in Bloomington

Bloomington has a range of off-road trails available for multiple use (hiking, biking, dog walkers, rollerblading). Bush Lake Park has a number of trails that meander through forests and lead hikers past popular fishing piers. Central and Moir Parks hiking trails are also popular, set in a beautiful ravine.

If you plan on traveling with your bike, The Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis Bloomington has secure underground parking where you can store it.

Combine With Rock Climbing in Lansing

Those looking for a trail that combines hiking with a bit of rock climbing will do well in Lansing. The Ledges is a trail that runs for 2 miles and is located near Grand Ledge. This is good for all skill levels, though keep in mind that the path is loose soil.

If you’re spending your time in Lansing outdoors, you don’t need more than a cheap place to crash when it comes to choosing a hotel. Among the cheapest is Motel 6, with rooms around $50 per night.

Running in Rosemont

Rosemont has fantastic running trails, including the Des Plains River trail and Chicago’s lakefront. The trail is across the river from the Cook County Forest Preserve; it’s a dirt path with plenty of shade, and it offers a great opportunity to spot deer and other wildlife. The Chicago Park District’s Lakefront Trail, on the other hand, is paved, running for 18 miles with amenities like restrooms and benches along the way.

Locals, however, run along city sidewalks; the best thing about this is that you can start from the front of your Rosemont hotel (consider booking at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Chicago O’Hare for a prime location close to both downtown Chicago and the airport.)

Photo CC by MichelleBikeWalkLincolnPark

River Trails in South Bend

South Bend has some great options when it comes to river trails. Visitors should consider the 2-mile Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail or the 3-mile Riverside Trail, which winds along the west bank of the St. Joseph River. There are a number of benches along the way for breaks to appreciate the beautiful river views.

Budget hotels in South Bend include the Red Roof Inn Mishawaka-Notre Dame.