The B-Line Trail in Bloomington runs for 3 miles between Adams Street (near the railroad tracks) and West Country Club Drive. The trail passes through downtown Bloomington and by a railroad switchyard. The trail features benches, drinking fountains (for both people and pets) and nice landscaping, including energy-efficient LED lights. Two fitness stations, provided with support from IU Health Bloomington, allow you to step up your trail experience.
At the southern end (West Country Club Drive), the B-Line Trail connects to the Bloomington Rail Trail (2 miles of crushed gravel), which then connects with the Clear Creek Trail (2.4 miles of asphalt), for a continuous 7.4 mile trail. In 2-19, the Limestone Greenway, a 1.8-mile paved rail-trail, added to this growing trail system.
Access the B-Line trailhead on the south side of W. Country Club Drive.
We started on the North end of the trail. We parked at the Rev Ernest D. Butler Park. Use the parking lot off of Fairview St on the east side of the park; this is by the playground/swings. There are about 7-8 parking spaces. From there it is a very short ride north to enter the trail (like, coast down the hill and there it is).
From there we rode the three miles of the B-Line. We went on a Sunday and the trail was relatively busy. Along the way we rode through part of downtown but traffic was very light. Vehicles were respectful of the crossings and would stop if they were paying attention.
Along the B-Line we saw a bike repair shop, bike/skate board park, splash pad, playground, dog park, and more. Bloomington has really developed this trail and the amenities on it. Due to COVID the water fountains were covered.
The trail is paved and mostly flat. There was one large incline overpass but nothing too hard. The B-Line section ends at W Country Club Dr where there is another area to park if you wanted to start on the South end and travel north. There are approximately 17 or so parking spaces there with Handicapped parking.
We continued south onto the gravel Bloomington Rail Trail. We actually rode straight south from the B-line and realized we were on a motor path that runs parallel to the Bloomington Rail Trail; to get on the Rail Trail there is a slight jog to the west (by the parking lot). We were not the only ones who did this; but the actual trail is better in that it has tree coverage and it was a really sunny day. We eventually cut over to the proper trail when the motor path ended as we continued south.
We stopped at a large creek bridge that is just south of the roundabout for the Clear Creek Trail. We rested, took some pictures, and headed back North. We had a 9-year old and 12-year old with us and they were worn out at the end of what turned out to be a 10-mile round trip bike ride. It was a great time, though!
I've been on the B-Line Trail a few times. When I was in a group of three walking dogs it was nice with pretty views. The one time my car broke down and I biked the rest of the way to work on the B-Line, two guys started cat calling me and throwing insults in a dangerous and aggressive manner. It also felt like I was being followed at one point when I had to take a walk break.
We ride this trail whenever we can and all the trails that join the B-Line. Well maintained and friendly folks from start to finish. Great Trail!!!
I have ridden this trail many times and is always fun and a decent workout at the same time. Excellent asphalt surface , , sometimes plenty of users
We just rode this trail on vacation. It was a delight. We got on the trail near 11th Street, enabling us to end there at the Upland Brewery for lunch. We went on to the connecting trails and even dirt trails. It was crowded in some areas but not unmanageable for our bikes. There is one place with a very steep hill up to an overpass. However, there is a flat alternative that entails crossing a road.
If you go when the farmer's market is there, you will have a lovely experience. Be sure to look for LePetite French Restaurant near the trail, serving lunch from their walk-up window... We took advantage of a bottle filling station to re-up on our water. Thank you, B-Line. Plenty of parking for various entry points. A highly recommended trail.
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