Eagle Creek flows through central Indiana, originating in the northern portions of Boone and Hamilton counties before making its way south through Marion County. The creek serves as a tributary to the White River and drains approximately 162 square miles across parts of four counties: Marion, Hendricks, Boone, and Hamilton. Its most prominent feature is Eagle Creek Reservoir, a 1,300-acre impoundment located entirely within Marion County that serves dual purposes as both a public drinking water supply and flood control reservoir for Indianapolis.

The paddling experience on Eagle Creek varies considerably from its upper reaches to the reservoir. Beginning near Zionsville in northern Marion County, the creek offers a genuine moving-water experience with steady current and Class I-II conditions. The five-mile stretch from Lions Park to Lafayette Road Bridge takes paddlers through a surprisingly secluded corridor given its proximity to Indianapolis, with enough current to maintain interest without presenting serious technical challenges. This section typically requires 2.5 to 3.5 hours to complete and occasionally necessitates portaging around fallen trees.

From Lafayette Road north of the reservoir, Eagle Creek transitions to slower, flatwater conditions as it approaches the impoundment. Paddlers can explore the creek channel heading upstream from this access point, passing under the notably low Lafayette Road bridge and continuing north toward 86th Street when water levels permit. The reservoir itself, divided by the 56th Street causeway roughly two miles north of the dam, provides approximately three miles of open-water paddling. A 10-horsepower limit on boat motors keeps powerboat wakes minimal, while the northern end offers sheltered water ideal for novice paddlers. Additional access exists at the southern end via the 42nd Street Boat Ramp off Dandy Trail.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the system. Egrets, blue herons, and various waterfowl frequent the creek corridor, while the northern preserve area of the reservoir provides excellent birdwatching in quieter "hidden passageways" away from the main body of water. Fishback Creek enters the reservoir along the western bank, where an old flooded bridge remains visible.

Eagle Creek Park, one of the nation's largest municipal parks at over 5,300 acres combined land and water, provides the primary infrastructure for paddling access. The park charges $5 entry for Marion County residents and $6 for non-county residents, plus $3 per boat. Eagle Creek Outfitters at the marina offers rentals and guided tours, including popular sunset paddles. Spring through early fall provides optimal conditions, with spring runoff offering higher water levels for the upper creek sections.