Hidden along the Mississinewa River is a fascinating, little-known natural wonder in Indiana that does NOT get the love or attention it so rightly deserves. Here, the limestone cliffs were etched away over centuries by erosion from the river, creating a fascinating arrangement of unusually-shaped cliffs along the northern edge in one particular spot. It’s called the Seven Pillars of Peru, and not only is it one of those must-see natural wonders in Indiana, but it’s also a place considered sacred by Native people for a very long time. Come see:

If you arrive at this preserve in Miami County and embark upon the Frances Slocum Trail, you'll be led to a spot directly above the pillars.
Corey Wilson/AllTrails
Along the way you'll encounter red cedar, shadbush, and Juneberries. It's lush and green, and it's a wonderful hike, but there's only one problem: the pillars are best viewed from across (or in) the river, from the southern bank.
It's a great hike and all but seeing the pillars from directly above doesn't work out the way you think it would.
Corey Wilson/AllTrails
So, instead, we suggest you explore the area and make your way to the south bank. It's a really, really cool view of a unique place you won't soon forget.
The people of Miami Nation have considered this place to be significant and important for ages.
Kevin Audette/AllTrails
To this day, some members still gather here for many reasons, from events to traditions and more. How lucky we are to be able to visit such a culturally important place; Indiana is full of wonderful history, and it's exciting to learn about the significance of many places all over the state.

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While you're here, you'll definitely want to practice the "Leave No Trace" principles, as the area is lesser-known and much less crowded than many others.
Marviene Honiotes/AllTrails
As a result, it's pristine around here - let's keep it that way!
The limestone cliffs are about 25 feet high, and between them are naturally-created caverns that are great for relaxing, admiring, or just about anything else you can dream up (within reason, of course).
Kevin Audette/AllTrails
The water is shallow and crystal-clear; during the warm months, it's surrounded by vibrant greenery that's only complemented by the stunning blue sky. During winter, it becomes something of a wonderland, the cliffs looming over a frozen river dusted in a light layer of snow. No matter what time of year, it's a destination no Hoosier should miss.
To access the pillars, it's simple.
Amy Dietrich/AllTrails
From Peru, Indiana, follow the 124 eastbound until you reach the Frances Slocum Trail. You can hike it to the tip-top of the pillars, or you can take the 124 to 300 East, make a southbound turn, and meander to Mississinewa Road. Then, turn east and follow the road along the river for about a mile and a half. Obviously, you can't miss the pillars.

YouTuber, That Hiking Guy, has a fantastic video of the Seven Pillars Nature Preserve that you’ll want to watch for yourself. 

For more information about this intriguing natural wonder in Indiana, check out the official ACRES Land Trust website. Interested in some amazing waterfall hikes in Indiana? Check out this list of the eight best hikes in Indiana with waterfalls. Which one will you do first? Adventure awaits.

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NATURAL WONDERS AND HIDDEN GEMS IN INDIANA

Melanie J. | March 30, 2023

Besides the Seven Pillars of Peru, what are some other natural wonders in Indiana? 

There are so many natural wonders in Indiana, and they include: 


For more of these incredible phenomena, be sure to check out this previous article about these 5 unique natural wonders in Indiana. 

What are some beautiful places in Indiana that are bucket list worthy?

Similar to the Seven Pillars, there are many beautiful places in Indiana that are worthy of a bucket list, and here are a few of them: 

  • Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse, Michigan City
  • Sunken Gardens, Huntington
  • Turkey Run State Park, Marshall
  • Kesling Wetland, Albion
  • Garfield Park Conservatory, Indianapolis
  • Clegg Memorial Garden, Lafayette
  • Brown County State Park, Nashville
  • Clifty Falls State Park, Madison
  • Indiana Dunes State Park, Chesterton
  • Greene Sullivan State Forest, Dugger


To read about these must-visit attractions, here’s an article with more information about some of these beautiful places in Indiana. 

Are there hidden gems in Indiana?

Of course, Seven Pillars is one of the most underrated natural wonders in the Hoosier State, but there are other hidden gems in Indiana, and they include:  

  • Ardmore Quarry, Fort Wayne
  • The Providence Home Geode Grotto, Jerome
  • Amish Acres, Nappanee
  • Empire Quarry, Bloomington
  • Roofless Church, New Harmony
  • Friendship Botanic Gardens, Michigan City
  • The Ruins, Indianapolis


Here’s a previous article with a road trip exploring the most incredible hidden gems in Indiana.

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3985 Mississinewa Rd, Peru, IN 46970, USA