Know Before You Go!
We’re excited to welcome you to the 2025 Trails Gathering, taking place September 25–26, at the Spring Mill State Park Inn in Mitchell, Indiana! As we get ready for two days of connection, learning, and inspiration, we want to make sure you have all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Below, you’ll find important details to help you prepare – from directions and check-in times to what to pack and what to expect during your stay.
2025 Trails Gathering
Event Overview
Spring Mill Inn at Spring Mill State Park
Address: 3333 IN-60 E, Mitchell, IN 47446
Phone: 812-849-4508
Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 through Friday, Sep 26, 2025
Getting There
Spring Mill State Park Inn
3333 IN-60 E, Mitchell, IN 47446
You can enter this address directly into your GPS or mapping app. It will bring you to the main entrance of Spring Mill State Park, where the Inn is located just inside the park grounds.
Basic Directions: See Google Maps
From the North (e.g., Bloomington/Indianapolis):
Take I-69 South toward Bloomington.
Exit onto IN-37 South toward Bedford.
In Mitchell, turn left onto IN-60 East.
Follow IN-60 E for about 2 miles — the entrance to Spring Mill State Park will be on your right.
From the South (e.g., Louisville/Paoli):
Take I-65 North to Scottsburg, then head west on IN-56 to Paoli.
From Paoli, take US-150 West to IN-37 North.
In Mitchell, turn right onto IN-60 East.
Drive approximately 2 miles — the entrance to the park will be on your right.
Parking: Free parking is available onsite for all Trails Gathering attendees. Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the Inn.
Cell Signal / GPS Note: Please be aware that cell signal can be limited within the park, especially in more remote areas. We recommend downloading directions in advance or saving the GPS pin before you arrive. If you're using navigation apps, it’s a good idea to keep them open until you reach the Inn.
Where to Stay
Spring Mill Inn is the host location for this year’s Trails Gathering, and it's the most convenient option for lodging during the event. Tucked inside the beautiful park grounds, the Inn offers direct access to the event venue, scenic trails, and historic surroundings.
🌟 Fall Deal Alert: The Inn is currently offering special rates on fall stays — a perfect opportunity to extend your visit and enjoy everything the park and season have to offer!
Please book early! Rooms fill up quickly this time of year due to the Persimmon Festival, which runs the same week in Mitchell. Once they're gone, they’re gone!
Agenda
Thursday, September 25, 2025
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM Check in and networking (breakfast included)
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Greenways Foundation, Welcome from Mayor Don Caudell, and Presenting Sponsor, Representative Wendy Dant Chesser update
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Birdability - Cat Fribley - Together on the Trail
11:00 AM - 11:50 PM Eppley Institute - Kristy Anders - Measuring Your Impact for Funding
12:00 PM - 12:50 PM TrailReady Indiana introduction & Networking Lunch included
1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Indiana Audubon - Whitney Yoerger - The Indiana Birding Trail
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Department of Natural Resources
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM RJL Solutions - Jonathan Blake - Lobbying for Trails Funding
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM McClellan Advisory Services LLC - Megan McClellan - Getting Grant Ready
5:00 PM Wrap-up
6:00 PM Social (appetizers and beer included)
Friday, September 26, 2025
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM Sunrise Birding with the Audubon Society
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Day 2 Tours check in and networking at inn (breakfast served, pre-registration required)
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Day 2 Tour Option 1: Bike tour of Monon South (pre-registration required) Day 2 Tour Option 2: Hike with DNR Naturalist and Nature Therapy (pre-registration required)
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bike Tour Only: Ice Cream and Presentation
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Continue bike tour
Event Contact Info
If you have any questions or need assistance during the Trails Gathering, feel free to reach out:
Email: info@greenwaysfoundation.org
Phone: 317-210-1128
Our team will be on-site throughout the event and happy to assist with anything you need.
What to Bring
To help you make the most of your Trails Gathering experience, here are some essentials to pack:
For the Trails & Outdoors:
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots – parts of the event may take you onto natural surface trails.
Refillable water bottle – hydration stations will be available.
Layered clothing – September weather in Indiana can vary. Mornings may be cool and afternoons warm.
Rain jacket or poncho – just in case the weather turns!
For Networking & Sessions:
Business cards or organization materials for networking and sharing ideas.
Notebook or journal for jotting down insights, ideas, or contact info.
Pens, highlighters, or whatever helps you stay organized during sessions.
Tech Essentials:
Phone and/or tablet chargers – outlets will be available, but it’s always smart to have a backup power bank.
Optional: Laptop or device for digital notes (Wi-Fi available at the Inn).
Meals & Refreshments
We’ve got you covered with a variety of meals and treats to keep you fueled throughout the Trails Gathering!
Day 1 – Thursday, September 25
Breakfast and lunch will be provided for all attendees.
In the evening, join us for a casual social event featuring:
Appetizers
Beer and other refreshments
Day 2 – Friday, September 26
For those who pre-registered for Day 2: Breakfast is included.
Attendees participating in the bike ride will enjoy a special ice cream treat in the afternoon!
Dietary Accommodations: If you noted any dietary restrictions or preferences during registration, we’ll make sure your needs are accommodated.
Onsite & Nearby Dining: The Spring Mill Inn Restaurant is open for additional meals during your stay, offering a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
There are also a few local restaurants in nearby Mitchell, just a short drive from the park.
Weather & Dress Code
Late September in Mitchell, IN typically brings mild, early fall weather, with average highs in the 70s°F and cooler mornings in the 50s°F.
What to Wear:
Layered clothing to stay comfortable as temperatures shift throughout the day
Comfortable shoes for walking and light hiking
Rain jacket or poncho – just in case we encounter a fall shower!
Casual attire is perfectly appropriate for all sessions and activities.
Networking & Activities
In addition to sessions and learning opportunities, there will be plenty of time to connect with fellow trail enthusiasts, partners, and experts.
Social Highlights:
Evening Social on Day 1 with appetizers and local beer
Opportunities for informal trail walks, chats on the porch, and shared meals
Optional bike ride and outdoor activities for Day 2 attendees
Expect a relaxed atmosphere with time to unwind, explore, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Wi-Fi & Cell Coverage
Wi-Fi is available throughout the Spring Mill State Park Inn, including guest rooms and meeting spaces.
Cell coverage may be limited in certain areas of the park, especially on trails or in more remote locations. Plan ahead by downloading any important materials or directions before arrival.
Local Highlights
Make the most of your visit by checking out a few local gems:
Spring Mill Pioneer Village – A restored 1800s village with working mills and artisans
Twin Caves Boat Tour – A unique guided cave experience (check seasonal availability)
Nature Center – Interactive exhibits, wildlife info, and family-friendly fun
Trails & Outdoor Recreation – Enjoy hiking, biking, and scenic walks throughout the park
Don’t Miss: The Mitchell Persimmon Festival runs the same week as the Gathering! Explore food vendors, live entertainment, and small-town charm just minutes away.
