Planned Bicentennial Tree Trail to Leave Legacy for Future Generations
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The Hendricks County Bicentennial Steering Committee made it their mission in 2024 to leave their generation's mark as they celebrated the county's 200-year anniversary.
To make it a year-long celebration, they encouraged local businesses, civic groups, event planners and locals in the Indianapolis suburb to plan and submit events and projects celebrating the county's history.
But the 12-member committee also wanted to come up with a project that would withstand the test of time and leave a legacy for future generations.
Hendricks County Bicentennial Tree Trail
The steering committee partnered with the Hendricks County Parks Department and The Parks Foundation of Hendricks County to find a home for the Bicentennial Tree Trail at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (Idnr) indicated a need for a park showcasing trees native to Indiana.
It is one of only two such trails in Indiana, featuring virtually every tree native to Indiana in one place, with signage identifying every tree. Though it will take years for the trees to mature, one can only imagine what this new amenity will look like in 20, 50 or even 100 years, when residents celebrate the county's Tricentennial.
Tree Trail Amenities
The Tree Trail encompasses nearly 7 acres of land in the park. Park officials completed most of the work, which began with plantings of trees native to Indiana in the spring of 2025. Three of each of the 67 tree species were planted and labeled with signage along the trail.
A 200-shaped crushed gravel path was designed to meander through the trees. In addition to the obvious outdoor recreation benefits, Central Indiana elementary school students now have one location to complete future leaf projects.
Tree Trail Gateway
Visit Hendricks County, one of the founding members of the Bicentennial Steering Committee, invested in an entryway for the trail, including signage and landscaping, providing a photo backdrop for visitors.
The organization invested so heavily in this project because it benefits quality of place as a built asset that will enhance the unique experiences of Hendricks County, as well as enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Sponsors Were Critical
Seven sponsors helped pay for much of the cost through $10,000 bench sponsorships. As part of the sponsorship, each sponsor got their name etched on one of the seven benches along the trail. Those sponsors included Visit Hendricks County, Hendricks County Community Foundation, Hendricks Power Cooperative, Iu Health, North Salem State Bank, Tim and Bonnita Whicker and an anonymous family donor.
Sponsorships also included 57 $250 tree sponsors. All of the sponsorships were critically needed to finish the project. Tree donations gave people or organizations a more affordable opportunity to support the project.
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