Indiana’s one of those special places that are full of all sorts of hidden delights; it seems like no matter where you look, you’re sure to find a source of awe and wonder… and maybe a good hike or two. Take, for example, an awesome hidden nature park in Indiana that goes unnoticed much too often. (Heck, we’ve never even given it its own article before here – so we’re talking hidden.) Known as Leonard Springs Nature Park, the whole family is sure to love this natural spectacle that features springs, caves, and more.

Welcome to Leonard Springs Nature Park, which consists of 95 and a half acres of some of Indiana's most awe-inspiring scenery.
Jo/Google Local
It's an open secret - a hidden gem well-known amongst locals but a total surprise to even Hoosiers who've lived here their whole lives. Once you know it's here, though, you'll seldom be able to resist the urge to visit again and again.
To say the landscape is diverse is a bit of an understatement.
Eric Allen/Google Local
Here, you'll encounter old woodlands, several stunning waterfalls, a couple of caves, springs, and lots more.
If you're a waterfall fan (I am!), you'll want to come following a good, solid rainstorm.
Aaron Shover/Google Local
Spring is also a wonderful time of year to arrive, as snowmelt helps these cascades be at their best. I prefer to come out in the summer after rain, though - that way, everything's lush and emerald green.

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There are two trails that do an amazing job of showing off all the best aspects of the nature park.
NB/Google Local
The Leonard Springs Trail is the more popular one and is just over one mile long. Encounter wetlands, two caves, Shirley Springs, and more!
The Ridgetop Road trail is much shorter, coming in at 0.3 miles in length.
Brian Ohlwine/Google Local
More the way to the restroom than a trail, this gravel is easy to walk on and offers a nice little preview of what's to come should you embark upon the Leonard Springs Trail next.
While the park is open all year round, restrooms are only open seasonally, so be sure to check before you leave if you need those.
the2knights/Google Local

For more information about this awesome hidden nature park in Indiana, be sure to visit the official Leonard Springs Nature Park website. Need some gear before you come out? No worries – our friends at The North Face have got your back.

Do you have any favorite nature preserves in the Hoosier State? How’d you discover them? Tell me all about it in the comments. Craving more hiking adventures? Check out my handy list of all the best hikes in Indiana.

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Leonard Springs Nature Park, South Leonard Springs Road, Bloomington, IN, USA