Bloomington is known for its top-notch outdoor recreation, including parks and hiking trails with stunning views. If you live on the south side of Bloomington at Hayden Flats, you’re right next to Clear Creek and the B-Line Trail, and you have quick access to many of these areas that are perfect for a spring or summer picnic. Here are five parks that are just a short walk or drive from Hayden Flats.

Switchyard Park
With kid-friendly amenities including a skate park, playground, and splash pad, this park is sure to be a hit for all ages. It’s right on the B-Line Trail just a mile from Hayden Flats so you can bike there or take a stroll along the paved path.

Winslow Woods Park
Less than two miles from Hayden Flats, this park features a nature trail through the mature trees of Winslow Woods, playing fields, and a new accessible playground, making it an ideal spot for individuals and groups alike. Shelters are available for rental from April through October, but there are plenty of free spots to spread a blanket as well.

Sherwood Oaks Park
Sherwood Oaks Park only has one picnic shelter, but it does have an open grassy playfield perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and relaxing in the sun. Follow the .6 mile Jackson Creek Trail to adjoining Olcott Park, home to 41 acres, a playground, and more wide open green space.

Indiana University Cox Arboretum
The Jesse H. and Beulah Chanley Cox Arboretum is home to 11 acres of green space with a stunning collection of trees and plant life, a pond, the Metz Carillon Tower, a gazebo, and many walking paths. Stroll across campus and lay a blanket on the grass for a perfect sunny picnic.

Karst Farm Park
Karst Farm Park has almost two miles of walking trails, a splash pad, a playground, and a sports complex with tennis and basketball courts and playing fields. The park offers 10 shelters, but you may also want to pick a more secluded spot near the pond or creek.

Upper and Lower Cascades Parks
These parks, just adjacent to one another off of Old Highway 37, offer golf, hiking, picnicking, playgrounds, and more. Follow the creek to the small waterfall!

The Cutouts
An area called The Cutouts near the spillway on Lake Monroe is a little bit farther of a drive from Hayden Flats but well worth the effort. Acres of flowery grassland, picnic tables, and two fire pits make it a perfect spot for a day trip, picnic, barbecue, or just throwing a Frisbee.

Local Live Music
In addition to outdoor recreation, Bloomington is also known for its vibrant music scene, and if you’re looking for an outdoor picnic spot and some live music, there are plenty of places for that, too. The annual performing arts series provides live music and other entertainment at area parks throughout the summer, and it’s a perfect place to spread out and enjoy the local atmosphere.

If all this outdoor fun has you eager for a fresh start this spring, take a look at Hayden Flats apartments for rent - Bloomington, Indiana. With access to the B-Line Trail, you can enjoy all the outdoor activities Bloomington has to offer, as well as a charming community, upscale amenities, and spacious apartments right here at home. Call for a tour today: (812)906-5870