We found this park in the beginning of November when the trees were fall colors. Lots of leaves on the ground but you could still see and indent where the trail was. It wasn't crowded at all. Quite a bit of trails that also run along the river. There is a huge field in the middle too with picnic tables. Great place to take a walk or have a picnic! read more

Marott Park is formally known as "Marott Woods Nature Preserve." Established in 1987 following the donation of land by Indianapolis businessman George Marott (think Marott's Shoes and what is now Marott Apartments) and dedicated to his wife, Marott is an 102-acre nature preserve unassumingly located right at 74th and College Avenue. Admit it. You've often driven by it and wondered. The preserve protects some of Indy's oldest remnant forest and native wildflowers. For years, it was known as Marott Park and had signage to support the name. However, it was Friends of Marott Woods that helped spearhead the name change to more accurately reflect the nature of the preserve and goals for it. It's important to note that because Marott Woods is an actual state nature preserve, it's protected under state law. According to the Friends website, "protecting the habitat takes precedent over our personal whims. Because of this, activities like off-path hiking, biking, fires, and off-leash animals are all illegal under state law." Marott Woods has a relatively small area for parking, picnic tables, and hills that are somewhat cleared yet definitely natural as opposed to paved. I definitely would not consider the trails wheelchair friendly, though there are areas where a wheelchair can access and still appreciate the preserve. Nature Preserves are, of course, far more natural than a public use park and while some effort is made for accessibility the focus is on natural preservation. There are some very cool spots that I can technically get to, but not fully utilize. As others have noted, Marott Woods doesn't look like much from the street, but it becomes amazing and it's pretty awesome to think that it's basically smack dab in the middle of a residential area. I do like that the name has changed. I think it creates more realistic expectations of what this space is and how it should be used. This is definitely one of Indy's northside gems and pretty easy to reach from Broad Ripple and Nora. I'm not quite ready to call it a destination spot, but if you've found yourself curious about it I definitely recommend stopping in and enjoying the remarkable natural setting. read more

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Beautiful, serene little "pocket" park just north of Broad Ripple. Even though it's pretty tiny, there are plenty of trails, trees, and river tributary to feel like you've stepped back into the wilderness. Great place to quickly detach from the surrounding city and get some natural peace and quiet. Lots of dog walkers and other people at times, but never enough to really disturb the sense of tranquility. One of my favorite places in Indy. read more

This is strictly a nature park consisting of woods, trails, and runs along the White River, Williams Creek, and the Monon Trail. There is also a picnic shelter as well as other picnic table scattered around the park's grounds. It is an extensive park, covering almost 100 acres. It is named after shoe tycoons, Ella and George Marott after George donated the land in honor of Ella. The park's trails are pretty well defined and accessible. It is all dirt and winds deep into the woods. You will find native Indiana plants and wildflowers in the park. The park has a a decent amount of parking spots and is open from dusk to dawn. And who would want to be in the middle of the woods any way. The park is a peaceful and tranquil place somewhat. I was there on a bad day and there was some kids yelling while their unleashed dog was playing in the creek. It seems that people think they are the only ones in the park, as unleashed dogs are a common theme here. I enjoyed this park. It is well maintained for a nature park. It has a calming peacefulness about it and does not get crowded in the least. I recommend paying this place a visit for a little "me" time. read more

What a lovely park! Like others said, I have driven past this area so many times and never stopped. It looks like they recently updated signage for the park, which looks great. You can park in the lot across from Park Tudor on College or a makeshift single row parking area on 73rd. There are a few entrance points, and the creek dissects the park so you can't easily access both sides unless you wade through the water - unless I'm missing something! You can also access Marott directly from the Monon Trail. I was surprised to see the changing terrain, especially the steep ravine area near the corner of 73rd and College. Who knew these woods were just a few minutes from the Broad Ripple strip? read more

What a fun discovery along College Avenue. I've driven by a million times and finally made the stop this time after reading the reviews and perusing photos on Yelp. Marott Park offers a small parking area, shaded picnic tables, "hilly" trails that weave through the woods and down along the creek. The creek seemed to be a popular spot for hikers and pups to explore. The park has the feel of a mini state park with a large tree canopy yet easy access right off College Avenue. This park doesn't look like much from the street but it's the trails you can't see from the road that make it special. I especially loved the stone staircase that kicks off the trail near the parking lot. I'll second Phil B's note about seeing several dogs off leash at this park. Talk about a pet peeve of mine... not cool, people. read more

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Nice park with lots of shade and quite a few tables. Great for social distancing. Only bad thing I saw was too many people with their dogs off leash. I thought Marion County had a leash law? I would hate for my dog to be harmed or a person harmed because someone didn't have control of their animal. Just because your dog is a "good dog" doesn't mean it may one day ignore a command. Indianapolis Code 531-102a provides: An owner or keeper of an animal commits a violation of the Code if that animal is at large in the city. At large means not confined without means of escape of any portion of the animal's body in a pen, corral, yard, cage, house, vehicle or other secure enclosure, unless on a leash and under the control of a competent human being. read more

I have been to this park multiple times and every time I have gone, I have always enjoyed myself! The land is beautiful and well taken care of. Not only this but the trails are also great for a day hike! Marriott Park is a great place to go to when looking for an opportunity to get outside and explore nature and all of its beauties! read more

Marott Park is very unassuming. As you drive by it on College Avenue, it looks like ... well, it look like nothing, quite frankly. It looks like a big field with a couple of picnic tables. But! If you walk over to the left, there is a trail opening that will take you down into the most amazing and woodsy area that is perfect for creek stomping with young children. It's kind of like falling down a rabbit hole: You're taken from one boring world into a magical world full of streams and creeks and slugs and bridges and wading pools. This is an awesome park. If you follow the path through the treesy area and make a left at the fork, it will take you to a large stream that is perfect for wading in with very young children because it is very shallow and mellow. The ground is also lined with hella rocks and pebbles, which means it is perfect for the children in your life who like to endlessly throw rocks into ponds. (Do you know any of these kinds of kids? I know several dozen.) I should add: Marott Park does not have any restrooms, so keep that in mind. It's also not a park in the sense that it has a playground -- it's more like a park where you go hiking and running and creek stomping. I think this is my new favorite park in Indy! It seems very secluded, but I saw a lot of families and trail runners when we were there, so apparently the secret is out. read more

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This little park is nestled in Indianapolis next to the Monon trail at 75th and College. It is a great little park. As far as amenities goes, it has parking, one shelter, some open green space, and trails. So, not a long list, but what it has, it does well with. The park is clean, safe, and well maintained. It is a good place for me and my family to go anytime of the year and I appreciate what it provides the city. The trails are fully enclosed inside the wooded area. A great little escape. read more

Marott Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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As the idiom goes, "Don't judge a book by its cover." It's true, you shouldn't. When you drive, walk, or bike by the entrance to Marott Park, it is easy to ignore it. The "cover" to the park looks like a small, open field, perhaps only useful as a place to walk a dog. However, the magic of this park is in its proverbial "pages." Located north of Broad Ripple and directly across the street from Park Tudor, Marott Park is close to many popular neighborhoods, restaurants, shops, and bars. While the park is a great place to walk the dog or have a picnic, once you venture onto its paths, you'll realize that it is a mico-sanctuary from the hustle-bustle of daily life. While Marott Park is relatively small (when compared to other Indy Parks like Eagle Creek, Broad Ripple, or Holliday), you can still take a lovely, light-to-moderate hike. One of my fondest memories of childhood was creek stomping. There was, and still is, nothing like running pell-mell into a creek, getting wet, and hunting for frogs, toads, turtles, or salamanders. Well, you can do just that at Marott Park. If you hike far enough, you will be able to access the beautiful Williams Creek. While I have not seen much wildlife (other than small fish), this place will make all of your creek stomping dreams come true. There are no age limits - high or low. Whether you want to spend 15 minutes or several hours in nature, Marott Park will provide the perfect getaway. You'll love it. Check. It. Out! read more

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This is a nice sized nature park that happens to have a sprawling lawn and shelter by the entrance. The random trails roughly loop to bring you back to the starting spot, but it's mostly foot paths worn from years of hikers. So, if you encounter tree roots sticking out of the ground or a fallen tree, you have to pay attention instead of looking all around you. And that is not easy to do with all the mature trees and a few sudden changes in altitude. This is one of the more challenging hiking trails around the city parks, so I'll give them credit for that. I nearly gave the park a five star rating, but there are a few things that held me back. First, all dogs are supposed to be on leashes. Seven of the nine dogs I met were off leash and when two big labs rushed me, I was able to keep them from jumping up on me. If they had come up from behind, I might not have heard them in time. Seriously, there are dog parks all over town for people to let their pets run loose. Also, part of the river walk is closed off for conservation (the river bends there and I assume erosion is taking its toll.) Good for the park overseers, but the lack of notice makes you have to double back the way you came. Still, it has about a mile of trails to get a good workout and the noise from College Avenue is somewhat quieted by the dense forest. Review #587 read more

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Gym closed been hitting up the bodyworkouts throwing in trail running and goofball/youtube w/o routines I can find. Never been to Marott park before jumped in the truck to check it out. Freezing cold first day there, ran some hills/plyometrics raining pretty heavy after a half hr called it quits. Round 2 came on a Sunday, place has good elevations, steep hills and runs around to a creek along some decent hiking trails. Lots of people out that day, along with dogs, pretty "natural" park as fallen trees and exposed roots all over the paths. Park has two entrances and allows walking on both sides of the stream. Pretty good place overall, was happy to see people getting out despite the "stay at home" edict. Screw you govt. Able to get a killer w/o in and felt great. I'm back baby!! Whooo!! read more

We love this place! It's a hidden gem on the north side of Indianapolis. We have been twice on beautiful weekend days and it's never been busy. There are lots of great walking trails, and a creek that's great for kids and dogs. It's a very dog friendly park - most are off their leashes and very well behaved. There are also a few tables if you wanted to set up lunch or a snack. Also, it's free! read more

Marott Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Marott is one of my favorite parks in Indy. It is a short drive from Carmel, and offers a good excuse to go grab something to eat in Broad Ripple following the walk in the woods. The park is beautiful in all seasons, and very relaxing with its quiet trails among the trees and along the stream. It takes about 15-20 minutes to cover the trail, and one is likely to encounter happy dogs frolicking in the water, or playing fetch with their owners. The large grassy open area has several benches and shelters, ideal for warm weather picnic. read more

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Love it. The water is looks clean and the area is pretty. Not great signage but the park is small so it is hard to get lost.

We had so much fun teaching our pups to swim here. A beautiful and fun park! Access to Williams Creek is quick and easy. There are several places to play in the water so you have plenty of room if it's busy. The hike back was quick and easy, dirt trails, beautiful trees, nice bridges, lots of good photo ops. Definitely going back. read more

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Our favorite park. It is very deceiving from the street. It doesn't look like it from college but there are many hilly trails in this park. We love taking our dog there. She runs around and loves the river to play around in. If you haven't been check it out! read more

Marott Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Get your envy ready: this park is my back yard. (Sorry for inducing any flashbacks to the Jack Black - Ben Stiller vehicle "Envy." Wait, I'm not sorry... because I just had those flashbacks... gah!). Opposite of that nightmare... is Marrott Park: an oasis of nature on the Northside. Open from dawn to dusk, consistently well-kept trails weaving between College Ave & the Monon, on the banks of the rippling White River; also moving through is Williams Creek. Sick of the straight line that is the Monon? Then take a chicane into the woods with access points North & South of the river. Prepare to splash over and through Williams Creek that is the epitome of creek, which is small enough to wander up and in. Find some solace at the mouth of the creek at the River bank... plenty of bedrock to pull up with a book and a bottle of wine. I'm not so sure how happy Indy Parks would be to see you camping on the North bank of the river... but it's totally doable. There's a parking lot off the College Ave entrance. With covered picnic tables, a large field (that's used as the turn-around point for the 5 mile Trail Run in March. At the other side of that field are the three trail heads... all connecting to the Monon. No bikes on the trails. Have at it. read more

So I've been in Carmel for going on 3 years.... Just found out about this place! Such a nice park! Whether you want to go on a hike or have a picnic, a nice place to get away from the city life. It's like a private forest nestled between Carmel and Broad ripple. I can't wait to go back and the park is very dog friendly for all my other dog parents out there !! read more

Awesome place. Just moved from out of town and desperately looking for a place to take a water puppy out. Parking is easy, trails are straight forward. Lots of dogs off leash, and lots of good places to set up and play in the water with the dogs and toddlers. read more

I think Marrott Park is one of those actual best-kept secrets. There is something very special about it that is difficult to place (and would not exist if it were typically saturated with people). Perhaps it's the modest creek that winds through, rising and falling, sculpting year to year, harshly eroding out one of its banks and gently building another opposite. Or the sharp elevation changes, the sneakily non-homogeneous flora which shifts abruptly as you run or walk along the trails. The way the park reacts to the changing seasons, complexly, a microcosm of nature in such tiny acreage. Natural feng shui? I can't articulate, really. I just know that when running here I always feel this especially dynamic Romanticism seeping in from the environment, and I'm never eager to leave. read more

My favorite park in Indy, and my dog agrees. Get into the woods and you will find it is a secret dog park. Every once in a while a new person will wonder in and us regulars educate them on the dog park side of it. If you have kids, they will love to wade in the river. Being here really feels like you are out in the country, hard to believe it is so convenient to downtown. read more

Fantastic place to go for a little hike. Very dog friendly. Definitely a hidden gem in Indy. Super close to Broad Ripple and the Monon as well. read more

Marott Park is my favorite park in Indy. Just trees, paths, hills, a wandering creek, a large open patch of grass for Frisbee throwing, a shelter & a few picnic benches. That's what makes this park so great - its simplicity. No statuary, concerts, or fountains. No playgrounds or interpretive centers. Nothing to come between me & the great outdoors. I love to visit the giant sycamores with their ghostly limbs, admire the tiny shells in the sand beds along the creek, and discover how the creek's banks have eroded & changed since my last touring. The foliage is wonderful in autumn, and I like to cap off a visit here with a caramel apple from Lilly Orchard across the street. But I like the park best in winter; you see more of its underlying nature, completely carpeted with the fallen leaves. And so lovely when it snows, the masses of straight gray trunks against the whiteness. I hope it stays so simple & natural here, forever. It needs no other adornment. read more

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Great place to find some nature in the city. We love taking our dog here. Beautiful. Picnic areas as well as wooded trails. Great fun form of exercise. read more