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Hiking trails & Routes
Monroe County
Bloomington

Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Monroe County
Bloomington

Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop

Easy

Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop

00:52

3.26km

30m

Hiking

This easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hiking loop, known as the Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop, offers a gentle outdoor experience with only 114 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 52 minutes. You'll find yourself on a short, flat, and open path, often winding through pleasant, accessible terrain that might include views near a reservoir. It's an excellent introduction to hiking, providing a relaxed atmosphere away from more challenging routes.

Planning your visit is simple, as the trail is generally accessible from a gravel parking lot. This route is suitable for most times of day, but an early start can help you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Given its short duration and easy difficulty, it's a convenient option for a quick nature escape without needing extensive preparation. Always remember to bring water, especially if you're hiking during warmer periods.

While the name might suggest a connection to the more challenging "Money Trails Loop" for mountain biking, this specific hiking route is curated for beginners, focusing on its easy-rated sections. It's a family-friendly option in Bloomington, Indiana, perfect for those looking for a less crowded alternative to more strenuous trails or simply a peaceful walk in nature. The trail's primary appeal lies in its accessibility and ease, making it a top-rated beginner loop.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

661 m

Wapehani Mountain Bike Park

Highlight • MTB Park

The trails at Wapehani Mountain Bike Park are definitely built to be bike-specific trails, but they are also open to foot-traffic and leashed dogs. You'll need to be aware of other trail users since the trails can be pretty tight and have lots of blind twists and turns. The trails have lots of mountain bike obstacles that you can easily avoid, and there are lots of connecting trails that you can use to make your hike longer or shorter.

Tip by

B

3.26 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.20 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.20 km

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Elevation

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Weather

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Today

Saturday 11 July

26°C

21°C

95 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop?

Wapehani Mountain Bike Park has dedicated parking areas. You can find access points and parking at the park entrance. There are no specific details provided about public transport directly to the trailhead, so driving and parking at the park is the most common option.

Is the Beginner Trail & Money in the Middle loop dog-friendly?

Yes, Wapehani Mountain Bike Park is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all park users.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

Spring is an excellent time to hike this loop, as Wapehani Mountain Bike Park is known for its vibrant display of spring ephemerals. The wooded and grassy landscape offers pleasant conditions during spring and fall. Summers can be warm, and winters may have varied trail conditions.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for Wapehani Mountain Bike Park?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Wapehani Mountain Bike Park or to hike this loop. It is open to the public for recreation.

What is the terrain like on this loop?

The loop combines sections of the 'Beginner Trail' and 'Money in the Middle' (likely 'Malcolm in the Middle'). The 'Beginner Trail' sections are generally easy with straightforward walking paths. 'Money in the Middle' is a singletrack trail that presents a moderate hiking challenge with some elevation changes, including a potential 61-foot climb. You can expect rolling single-track dirt trails with varied surfaces, including logs and roots, and some undulating terrain.

What kind of scenery can I expect on the trail?

You'll experience a mix of wooded and grassy landscapes. A notable feature is a loop around a former lake, now restored to a wetland environment, boasting native and pollinator-friendly trees and plants. The park also features natural attractions like sinkholes and diverse woodland scenery, especially vibrant with spring ephemerals in season.

Is the trail easy to follow, or does it connect with other paths?

While the trails at Wapehani Mountain Bike Park are generally easy to follow, the park has a 'maze-like' quality due to its interconnected trail system. This loop utilizes sections of the Wapehani Mountain Bike Path, Wapehani Moutain Bike Path, Wapehani Path, Wapehani Mountain Bike, Wapehani Natural Surface Trail, Wapehani Mountain Biking Path, and a small portion of the Tapp Road Sidepath.

Since this is a mountain bike park, what should hikers know?

While primarily designed for mountain biking, Wapehani Mountain Bike Park is open to hikers. It's crucial to be aware of and yield to mountain bikers, as they are the primary users. Staying alert and listening for approaching bikes will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Is this loop suitable for beginner hikers?

Yes, this loop is suitable for beginner hikers. The 'Beginner Trail' sections are designed to be accessible, offering straightforward walking paths. While the 'Money in the Middle' section adds a moderate challenge with some elevation, it remains manageable for those new to hiking.

Are there any unique features or landmarks along the route?

The park, Wapehani Mountain Bike Park, holds historical significance as Indiana's first dedicated mountain bike park. While many unique features like log rides and wood ramps are geared towards bikers, hikers can still appreciate the restored wetland environment, natural sinkholes, and the overall diverse woodland scenery. Keep an eye out for an Eagle Scout bridge mentioned in the park's features.

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