18 Incredible Natural Wonders In Indiana That Defy Explanation
Tori Jane
Author
When it comes to states in the U.S. that are woefully underrated, there are a couple that fly under the radar even still, overlooked by secondary (and sometimes tertiary) destinations and places instead. One such state is Indiana. While commonly dismissed as a “flyover” state, it turns out this little slice of paradise is quite amazing – especially for those who love the outdoors. There is a plethora of natural attractions in Indiana worth traveling across the state – maybe even across the country – for. There are so many that it’s kind of tough to know where to start, so we’ve put together a handy-dandy list of all the best natural wonders in Indiana. We promise: the Midwest never looked so beautiful. Behold, the list of the greatest must-see natural wonders in Indiana! Travelers beware: you might just want to move here.
Best Gorges & Canyons In Indiana
Did you know that Indiana is absolutely NOT totally flat, overrun with corn fields, boring, or anything else a naysayer might mutter? Nope. It’s actually quite amazing, thank you, and although it might not be on, say, Arizona’s level when it comes to canyons and geographic features, it’s still got a few wonders worth ogling at. Check out some of the most amazing canyons and gorges in Indiana – if you’re brave enough! These natural wonders in Indiana are only for the brave few that don’t do that whole “claustrophobia” thing. Besides, there’s enough space… right?
1. Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve
Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve is an amazing tour de force of all things breathtakingly Indiana. The entire park that the preserve is contained within – Turkey Run State Park – is nothing short of absolutely epic. Traversing the canyon is quite the task, so bring plenty of water and wear good shoes. It’s a popular destination for Hoosiers, but if you show up during the week and/or early in the morning, you might get it mostly to yourself! Oh, and this one’s a twofer – check out Rocky Hollow Falls while you’re here, too!
2. Little Hemlock Cliffs Box Canyon
The epic sight that is the legendary Little Hemlock Cliffs Box Canyon is something to behold indeed. With a 1.2-mile loop trail that’ll lead you to all the must-see spots in, on and around the canyon, you can’t go wrong (unless you wear shoes you don’t want to get wet, anyway). Keep an eye out for seasonal waterfalls that just add to the rainforest-like feel of this splendid natural glory, and in the winter, expect awesome-looking ice sheets in place of cascades.
3. Pine Hills Nature Preserve
If you’ve never been to Shades State Park – one of the most underrated state parks in Indiana – then you’ve also never been to the Pine Hills Nature Preserve, and that’s too bad. Located just over an hour from Indianapolis, it’s a wondrous place filled with natural awe and wonder that you’re sure to find yourself longing for much later. All the more reason to keep visiting! This 471-acre parcel of land was actually the first dedicated nature preserve in all of Indiana, so it’s especially significant.
Best Caves In Indiana
Did you know there are more than 200 known “wild caves” in the Indiana wilderness? There sure are – and some of them are so spectacular that folks come from all over the country to check them out. Come visit some of the best caves in Indiana and see for yourself why the Hoosier State is so beloved among spelunkers. Please note: Cave exploring – or spelunking – is dangerous. Do not explore caves that are not marked for it, and never enter unknown caves, especially by yourself. That being said, here are a few amazing Indiana caves that offer tours galore. No list of natural wonders in Indiana would ever be complete without ’em!
4. Twin Caves
Spring Mill State Park is home to several notable caves, all of which are worthy of a gander. The Twin Caves are a fan favorite, and we strongly recommend reservations ahead of time for a tour if you’re planning to do one. While you’re here, check out Donaldson Cave and Bronson Cave, where you can go spelunking if you feel so inclined. The boat tours of Twin Caves only last about 20 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time.
5. Marengo Caves
Marengo Caves are nothing short of a natural wonder nestled comfortably in southern Indiana. When people think about Indiana – even folks who have lived here forever – almost nobody comes up with “caves”, and if they do, it’s usually these ones. This landscape is called karst landscape, and it’s common in areas with extensive cave systems – like this one! Discovered in 1955, this incredible wonder is amazing for even folks who aren’t all that interested in geology. It’s a jaw-dropper.
6. Bluespring Caverns
What is there to be said about Bluespring Caverns that hasn’t already been said about the previous two caves? Indiana’s amazing caves are all unique in and of themselves; our karst landscape is absolutely awesome, especially for the Midwest. It all started in the 1940s, when a large sinkhole opened up on private property, exposing the caves for all to see and explore. Nowadays, things are a bit safer... and definitely worth checking out! It’s no wonder why these are all stops on the Indiana cave trail... they’re a caver’s dream! If you find yourself in love with Marengo and Bluespring Caverns, be sure to check out Squire Boone Caverns, which aren’t terribly far from here.
Best Waterfalls In Indiana
Did you know that Indiana is home to not three, not four, not even five waterfalls… but many more? It’s true! In fact, the waterfalls in Indiana are an amazing testament to the diverse nature of the wonders in this state. The Midwest is full of surprises… and its waterfalls definitely send that point home. Whether you like ‘em tall, short, long, or stringy, you’ll find a fall you love right here in the Hoosier State. Check out some of our favorites, which probably more than qualify for the top spots in any list of the best natural wonders in Indiana.
7. Williamsport Falls
Like we said, Williamsport Falls has one major claim to fame: it’s got the lovely distinction of being the tallest waterfall in Indiana. At 90 feet up-and-down, this cascade is an absolute jaw-dropper. Once upon a time, there was a mill powered by this waterfall, and although it’s no longer there, the falls remain iconic. You won’t believe something so majestic is here in Indiana!
8. Clifty Falls (All of Them)
Clifty Falls State Park is home to FOUR amazing waterfalls. You’ve got Big Clifty Falls, which is 60 feet tall, Little Clifty Falls, which is also 60 feet tall, Hoffman Falls, which is 78 feet tall, and finally, Tunnel Falls, which is 83 feet tall. Every single one of them is absolutely worth the trip! With ten different trails varying in difficulty from beginner-friendly to pros-only, you’ll find all kinds of ways to enjoy the beauty of the waterfalls at Clifty Falls State Park.
9. Cataract Falls
Cataract Falls consists of two technically-separate waterfalls on Mill Creek. They’re about one mile apart, exactly, and were formed a long time ago thanks to two pre-glacial bedrock ridges that got buried beneath ancient lake sediment. Today, they’re an incredible wonder favored by locals and tourists alike, and for great reason: they are absolutely STUNNING. This is one of those “you need to see it to believe it” types of places. Make plans ASAP!
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Indiana
If you ask anyone what they think Indiana looks like, most of them will probably say something or another about it being flat and/or full of corn. Now, it might be both of those things in SOME places, but in others, it’s quite diverse in terms of landscapes and views. Seeking out some of the best views in Indiana? Look no further than our three favorites, all of which are just as worthy of their spots here on the natural wonders of Indiana list as, say, waterfalls and caves.
10. Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower
Standing stoic guard over the beautiful Charles C. Deam Wilderness as a relic from a long-gone time, the awe-inspiring views from the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower are something else... in the best of ways, of course. Built in 1936, this tower once had a very important role to play: it was from up here that forest service officials would watch for tell-tale smoke to send the fire brigade BEFORE things got out of hand. Since this service is no longer needed and the tower still stands firm, it’s now the perfect place to get a little exercise in... with a view.
11. Hesitation Point
One does not simply visit Indiana without visiting Brown County. Hesitation Point to Aynes Vista is a 7.7-mile trail that’s rated as moderately challenging and is the best way to access this popular spot. Trust us: the effort is WORTH it. It’s popular, so you’ll likely encounter others along the way... but at least you know you all have a love of the great outdoors in common! Of course, this is one of 12 awesome hiking trails at Brown County State Park, and all of them are breathtaking – they just don’t all have views like this one.
12. The Ohio River
The Ohio River is a river that runs right through Indiana, and the Ohio River Scenic Byway is an absolutely amazing way to explore it all. Along the way, you’ll notice that there are several vistas, lookouts, and other points of interest where you get a birds-eye view of the jaw-dropping landscape. Indiana and its rivers never looked so outrageously postcard-worthy! Should you make a trip out of (at least) the Indiana segment of the highway, you’ll meander through biomes such as many a state forest, gorgeous wetlands, lakes, towns, and so much more. Make a whole thing out of it - it’s worth it!
Best Rock Formations in Indiana
Who says there’s no such thing as interesting geology in Indiana? If anyone ever says that to you, stop talking to them; you don’t need that kind of negativity in your life. It just so happens that there are LOTS of awesome geological wonders in Indiana, and many of them are totally worth a day trip (or more). Come explore some of the downright coolest rock formations in Indiana that’ll make you feel like you’re on another planet!
13. Jug Rock
Standing an impressive 60 feet high and coming in at a diameter of about 20 feet, Jug Rock is a strange rock formation in Indiana that is LITERALLY unlike any others. You can’t miss it; it’s located in the small town of Shoals, where the residents have made it into a mascot of sorts. Seriously, the high school’s mascot is Jug Rock, and honestly, we think that’s kind of awesome. You’ll want to name something after it too once you’ve seen it in person in all its bizarre, unique glory.
14. The Seven Pillars of Peru
The nothing-short-of-epic Seven Pillars of Peru is an unusual geological formation located within the Seven Pillars Nature Preserve, which is named after the formation it houses. The 25-foot limestone pillars definitely steal the show, and anyone wanting a closer look can wade across the Mississinewa River to see if they’d like. These interesting-looking “pillars” were etched out of the limestone over millions of years, and it’s crazy to think that one day, many many centuries from now, they won’t look like this anymore. Life and its phases are fleeting... even for rocks.
15. Portland Arch
Isn’t it awesome that many of these epic natural wonders in Indiana are free to experience? We sure think so, and Portland Arch Nature Preserve is no different. Just add it to the “free fun” bucket list! Bear Creek flows right through the area, which encompasses about 435 acres, and has carved some truly intriguing shapes, forms and, yes, even the famed Arch out of sandstone and time. The nearby town of Fountain used to be named Portland, which is where the preserve and formation get their names from. The whole place is a Natural National Landmark. Joy!
Unique Natural Wonders in Indiana
Who knew Indiana was so much more than corn fields and boring, flat “flyover” country? Well, now you do – and you can spread the word! That being said, there are a few miscellaneous natural wonders in Indiana that you’ll probably love checking out, too, so we’ve collected a few more here to send you off with. How many of these wonders have you already experienced? Which ones are still on the ol’ bucket list? Let us know!
16. The Singing Sand Dunes
Indiana Dunes National Park is honestly like getting three natural wonders all in one trip. Number one, there’s the absolutely amazing dunes surrounding portions of number two, Lake Michigan. Finally, number three, these dunes are known to make a strange noise sometimes known as “singing” when conditions are juuuuust right. The singing sand dunes in Indiana are equal parts magic, natural wonder, and sources of fascination. You’ll seriously just have to come listen to the song of the dunes for yourself. Even the videos do it no justice. Like many of the best nature spots in Indiana, this one needs to be seen (and heard) to be believed.
17. Pinhook Bog
While you’re exploring the absolutely bonkers singing sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park (once upon a time called Indiana Dunes State Park, and sometimes called the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore), be sure to leave time to check out Pinhook Bog, which might just be the single most bizarre and unique wonder on this entire list. Why is that? Well, did you know that there’s a population of carnivorous plants that call Indiana home? Yep – and it’s at Pinhook Bog that they thrive. Thanks to many different factors, the bog just so happens to have the perfect chemistry for “meat”-eating plants like several species of sundew, pitcher plant, and bladderwort, and you can come check these weird little guys out in the same day you try to hear the song of the dunes. Score!
18. The Meltzer Woods
The Meltzer Woods is one of the last remaining mostly-untouched old-growth forests in Indiana, with many trees within its boundaries being well over one or two (or more) centuries old. This preserve is especially intriguing because this is what MOST of Indiana actually looked like BEFORE European settlers began arriving and changing the landscape to suit their farming needs. Though primarily dominated by the likes of Beech, Shumard Oak, and Maple trees, there are others present, too. This land was originally designated for Indiana’s Classified Forest Program in 1928 and added to the list of National Natural Landmarks in 1973. We’ll be forever grateful for this, as this might just be the closest we get to traveling back in time.
So, there you have it – solid proof in 18 ways illustrating the jaw-dropping nature of the Hoosier State in all its wonderful glory. Of course, even this list isn’t exhaustive; there are dozens – if not hundreds – more awesome nature spots and natural wonders in Indiana. This article just provides a few good places to start your adventures! How many of these natural wonders in Indiana have you already visited? Which natural wonders in Indiana would you add to this list? Let us know. Not feeling up to leaving the house this time? No worries – our ultimate staycation checklist is waiting for you all warm and cozy.
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