Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is a winner, leading three Elkhart County destinations in USA Today 10 Best

The Elkhart RiverWalk finished sixth in the Best Riverwalk category, while the town of Middlebury also finished sixth in the Best Small Town in the Midwest category.

“We’re so proud of the recognition that the Pumpkinvine has rightfully earned. Congratulations to all involved in what makes the Pumpkinvine, Elkhart RiverWalk and Middlebury so special,” said Jon Hunsberger, executive director of the Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Our residents and visitors frequently cite these places as among the standouts in their travels, demonstrating the value of our historical investments here.”

The Pumpkinvine Trail prevailed in voting over notable contenders including the Capital City State Trail in Wisconsin, the Great Allegheny Passage in Maryland and Pennsylvania, and Monterey Bay Coastal Trail in California.

USA Today’s description of the Pumpkinvine:

“Located in northern Indiana, Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is part of a network of trails that includes the Maple City Greenway and Mapleheart Trail, connecting the towns of Shipshewana, Goshen, Middlebury, and Elkhart. This particular trail, which took over the old Pumpkinvine railroad corridor, is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or skating while enjoying the serene outdoors.”

The Elkhart RiverWalk’s sixth-place finish put them behind in the voting to noteworthy destinations such as the San Antonio RiverWalk (the winner) and the Charles River Esplanade in Boston (fifth place) but also ahead of places such as Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale.

USA Today’s description of the Elkhart RiverWalk:

“This popular spot along the Elkhart River in northern Indiana is the perfect place to spend a day out, taking in the public art sculptures, popping in and out of boutiques, and admiring the signature, colorful Quilt Gardens. While you’re there, you can also grab a bite to eat, take some photos, or even check out NIBCO Water and Ice Park, which does double duty as a summertime splash pad and wintertime ice skating rink.”

Middlebury had some serious competition in its category, including from within Indiana. Vevay was the winner in the voting, while Madison was in second. Mackinac Island, Michigan, finished just ahead of Middlebury, while LaPorte was in 10th.

USA Today’s description of Middlebury:

Sitting on the banks of the Little Elkhart River in the heart of Indiana’s Amish Country, Middlebury offers scenic beauty with its rolling hills and pastoral landscape, and outdoor attractions like the Krider World’s Fair Garden and the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. Other draws to the town, a major hub of RV production, include Amish food and crafts and Das Dutchman Essenhaus, which gets about a million visitors per year at its Amish-style restaurant, inn, conference center, and shops.

About the Elkhart County CVB

The Elkhart County CVB is the official tourism advertising/marketing and public/community relations organization for the Elkhart County hospitality industry. The ECCVB advances quality-of-place initiatives in our downtowns and rural spaces, parks and natural environment, arts and culture, and events, festivals, groups and activities that help forge social connections.

Author
Terry Mark