Leonard Springs Nature Trail Parking Lot - Bloomington, IN
Leonard Springs Nature Trail: A Pet-Friendly Escape in Bloomington, Indiana
If you’re searching for scenic dog-friendly hiking in Bloomington, Indiana, Leonard Springs Nature Trail is a true local gem! Located at 016 35440-00 on the southwest side of Bloomington, this petite but diverse nature spot is perfect for pet owners and families alike. Featuring a delightful 1.1-mile loop trail, the park winds through hardwood and pine forests, wetlands, two caves, historic dam remnants, and not one—but two!—picturesque waterfalls. Educational signs dot the trail, making it a great outing for both learning and adventure.
The trails at Leonard Springs are pet-friendly and welcome leashed dogs. Along your walk, you’ll find benches throughout for restful breaks, plus unique natural features that will keep both you and your canine companion engaged. Just be aware that some areas have iron stairs that may not be ideal for every dog. The limited parking keeps the trails quiet and uncrowded, even on weekends—a plus for peace-seekers!
Leonard Springs Nature Trail FAQ
- Are dogs allowed at Leonard Springs Nature Trail? Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the hiking trails.
- Are there hiking or walking trails for dogs and their owners? Yes, the park features a 1.1-mile loop trail, perfect for dog-friendly walks.
- Is there seating available? Yes, benches are located along the trail for visitors to rest.
- Is the park good for kids? Yes, this spot is known for being family-friendly and offers kid-friendly hikes.
- Are there parking facilities at the park? Yes, but parking is limited, so plan accordingly.
- Is there shade along the trail? Yes, the loop offers shade from both pine and hardwood forests.
- Are there waterfalls or natural water features? Yes, you can enjoy one main waterfall year-round, plus an additional seasonal cascade and other scenic water features.
- Is the park scenic throughout the year? Yes, the park is open year-round, with changing scenery each season.
Reviews
Great place for a scenic hike in the woods compete with wetlands and caves and a stream with small cascades.
After all the recent rain, made it a great day for waterfalls!
Fabulous place to “get away from it all” for a free adventure. Gorgeous picture-worthy spots around every corner. Make sure to pack shoes with treads! And take your potty breaks before leaving the house 😂.
Lovely small park with signs throughout to educate you about the area. It has so much to offer for a 1.1 mile loop trail: one main waterfall year ’round, another smaller one that is somewhat less reliable and significantly smaller, hardwood forest, pine forest, a wetlands from an old reservoir, the breached dam from that reservoir, benches throughout to rest, and 2 caves. Very limited parking means it can’t get too overrun with many people at once. SO GLAD my brother, Bruce, showed me this park years ago!
Great short hike. Some dogs may not like the iron stairs.