Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary image

Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary

Tourist attraction Nature preserve

👍👍 You can take a short hike to see Eagle Creek reservoir, or you can take a longer hike to see the hilly areas. Both ways have beautiful views. Parking is not very big and sometimes crowded. People often mention trails, trail, hike,


Address

Indianapolis, IN 46278

Contact

(317) 327-7110

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (119 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 7 AM to 8 PM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 7 AM to 8 PM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 7 AM to 8 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 7 AM to 8 PM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 7 AM to 8 PM
  • Tuesday: 7 AM to 8 PM
  • Wednesday: 7 AM to 8 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: trails (11) trail (9) hike (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Siri Z. 2 years ago on Google
    You can take a short hike to see Eagle Creek reservoir, or you can take a longer hike to see the hilly areas. Both ways have beautiful views. Parking is not very big and sometimes crowded.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laura Z. 1 year ago on Google
    This was our first time to Scott Starling Nature Preserve and we were pleasantly surprised. The trails were nicely maintained and even though the area is close to the interstate, we could hear very little traffic noise. There were several other hikers there but it wasn’t crowded by any means. The parking lot, however, was crowded by 9:00 a.m. and there were no restroom options so be prepared for that. We’ll definitely go back for more!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ry 2 years ago on Google
    This is an oasis in the city! The trails at this part of the eagle Creek system are amazing. We hiked in both directions in the past week. One leads out to the water and the other to the interior of eagle Creek. Terrain on the interior trail is moderate, lots of hills and tree roots, making the hike interesting.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Braiden “Pulser” S. 2 years ago on Google
    A nice and short trail leading out to a dock on Eagle Creek reservoir. This area is also very close to the Eagles Crest nature preserve. Go very early if you want to find parking!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Amy S. 7 months ago on Google
    2023: They've definitely upgraded the parking lot since the last time I was here. So that was very nice. And you still don't have to pay to get in. I had heard all the eagle creek areas were gonna start charging admission. But this is still free so far. Original: This was the first time I was able to park here and walk around. The parking lot is tiny, so usually I've never been able to park. The trail by the water is pretty but very short. The odd little wooden trail is only wide enough for one person, so if you encounter someone, you have to jump off and it is pretty muddy. I imagine in summer it's like a swamp.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Kenneth M. 7 months ago on Google
    This place would be great if there was a trail map. I don't know if it is a secret club where only members know where the trails go or if you have to be a paying member before they tell you where the trails go or if by not telling anyone where the trails go it discourages use. In any event a with a map would go a long way toward making the place better. A description would even help.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marty M. 5 years ago on Google
    Amazing place to take a hike. The west trail links up to the Eagle Crest so it gives you plenty to hike.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 willy J. 5 years ago on Google
    This is an awesome place, but doesn't get maintained so lots of fallen trees on paths. Also the trails have deteriorated up the steep paths, so it's a bit risky after/during rain. There is also no fencing/railing in the places where it's very steep, probably not for the inexperienced hiker. You can't beat the views, and you get an amazing exercise going up and down the trails. Not a lot of people and trails go on for days. Again beautiful trails, breath taking views to die for!

  • 4/5 David R. 3 years ago on Google
    The nature sanctuary does not have the longest trails, but it is a nice place for a short hike that is less crowded and provides nice views the reservoir and some of the tributaries from multiple different boardwalk overlooks.

  • 4/5 Derek G. 3 years ago on Google
    West Trailhead parking lot was permanently closed August 2020 with new guardrail installed along road. Parking is now only available 1/3 mile east, but there is a boardwalk trail that takes you to this spot.

  • 4/5 Alex P. 5 years ago on Google
    Except for being able to hear 465, this place is solid. It's usually empty and clean. The further in you go, the better it is

  • 5/5 Brook M. 5 years ago on Google
    Great side trails that aren't frequented often. Very quite place, good for contemplation and relaxation

  • 5/5 Jim L. 5 years ago on Google
    Great trail and beautiful views!

  • 5/5 Sidney B. 4 years ago on Google
    Always a wonderful hike! Keep your cameras ready for all of the wild life and nature you will encounter!!

  • 2/5 Anne Marie W. 7 months ago on Google
    What a weird and wonderfully confusing trail system. Just a marker with a small map and # of miles in the loop?? would be so helpful to manage our time and resources. Does the bridge connect to Eagles Crest ? Where does it loop?


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