This 1.7-Mile Hike In Indiana Leads You To Amazing Views Of The Dreamiest Swimming Hole
By Tori Jane|Published February 21, 2023
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Tori Jane
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Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
Fans of jaw-dropping hiking trails in Indiana are going to love this: we found a gorgeous loop trail that does nothing but celebrates the spectacular beauty of a body of water usually called Raccoon Lake by locals (which is more formally known as Cecil M. Harden Lake). It’s easy, leads to some of the most spectacular lake views in IN, and is simply oh, so rewarding. Raccoon Lake is pristine and perfect for dipping your feet in – or more – so lace up those hiking boots and get ready to hike to one of the most beautiful, crystal-clear swimming holes in Indiana.
The Raccoon SRA Loop, otherwise called "Trail 1" by the park service, is a spectacular glimpse into the untamed beauty of the Hoosier State.
The trail wraps around in a lopsided loop on a small "peninsula" on the lake. You're able to see the water for most of the trek, and each viewpoint seems like it just keeps getting better than the last.
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If you were to simply hike the trail, all on its own, without stopping or exploring (why though?), it would likely take around 40-45 minutes to finish.
But what's the fun there? We strongly encourage you to make a day trip out of it - explore everything this amazing little natural refuge has to offer. It truly is a treat.
We're not sure about you, but for us, few things are as ridiculously refreshing as doing this hike, removing our shoes, and then dipping our weary feet into the chilly water.
The almost electric shock of the cold water on our skin is something we look forward to while hiking.
At Raccoon Lake, there are many things to look forward to - the lake views and the refreshing water are just perks. You'll also likely spot all kinds of wildlife along the way, too, all of whom call this amazing area home.
Honestly, we kind of wish we could live here ourselves.
