18 Best Hikes in Indiana: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails to Visit in 2024
Tori Jane
Author
Ask anyone who’s never been to Indiana what they think it’s like, and chances are they’ll mention something about “flyover” states and how there’s “nothing to do” here. Well, if you live here – or if you’ve simply been reading Only in Your State for a while – you know better. In fact, Indiana is an amazing state filled with natural wonders, and hiking in Indiana is second to none. And good news: the options are beyond plentiful and we have some of the best hikes in Indiana to get you started.
With 24 incredible state and National parks and 1,086 trails (seriously!) peppered throughout, the Hoosier State is pure perfection for lovers of the outdoors. What better way to explore than on foot via some of the best hiking trails in Indiana? Every time of year is a wonderful time of year for hiking – come out to Indiana and see just how!
Best Hikes in Indiana
Sometimes you want to go out and get your hike on without taking all day, night, or longer. Sometimes, we’re just not up for backpacking or journeying, and it’s in these cases that a short and easy Indiana hike is probably in order. You certainly don’t need to go out of your way to hike long, strenuous trails with little (or significantly delayed) reward. These short, sweet, and simple hikes in Indiana are the perfect way to indulge in the outdoors without taking all day.
No matter what you’re hoping to find in the great outdoors, you’re sure to find it in Indiana. From incredible waterfall hikes to astonishing views, amazing history, and so much more, hiking in the Hoosier State really is something special and unique. There are trails accessible to just about everyone, trails on the more challenging side reserved only for the most experienced, short trails, long trails, and everything in between. What follows is a long list of some of the best hikes in Indiana, spanning across all skill levels, and lengths, and with various highlights and delights. These trails are Indiana at its best, and you’re sure to find something that’s exactly what you’ve been looking for.
1. Cowles Bog Trail
Did you know there’s a wetland in Indiana? This incredible hike at Cowles Bog is one of the most awesome illustrations of the diverse landscape that is Indiana. Along the way, you’ll meander across some of the state’s most awe-inspiring dunes, and you’ll get to see an incredibly rare ecosystem: Cowles Bog, which is literally home to carnivorous plants and other interesting natural goodies. Come see why Cowles Bog Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Indiana. This is one awesome adventure hiking trail you’re not soon to forget! The plant diversity alone is utterly incredible.
2. West Beach - Dune Succession Trail
- Location: Indiana Dunes National Park
- Mileage: 1.0 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This awesome boardwalk hike leads to amazing views! The best times to visit are from April through October, but it’s open all year. The trek highlights all four stages of dune development within its one-mile length. Though it’s rated easy, it does include a climb of 250 stairs for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline (on the clearer days). Bring water. The parking lots, trails, and beach are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Indiana Dunes National Park costs $15 to $20 for a standard entrance pass. As mentioned above, you can save money on more than one visit by simply getting a $45 Annual Entrance Pass.
The Dune Succession Trail is one of Indiana’s downright best, and it’s easy to see why. Yes, it’s another hike within Indiana Dunes National Park, but it’s SO amazing that we can’t simply leave it out on a list of the Hoosier State’s finest. This is an easy boardwalk hike in Indiana that will show you the gorgeous natural dunes lining Lake Michigan firsthand and in a way like never before. This one is a must-do for anyone who loves Indiana’s beautiful outdoors.
3. Lawrence Creek Trail
- Location: Fort Harrison State Park
- Mileage: 4.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: The best times to visit this trail are April through September. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Please note that the trail is shared with mountain bikers, be mindful of traffic. Good footwear a must; trail can be muddy. For cars, trucks and campers, the entrance fee is $7 per vehicle for in-state plates and $9 per vehicle for out-of-state plates, seven days a week including holidays. For pedestrians, bicycles, buses and passenger vans, the entrance fee is $2 per person.
Lawrence Creek Trail is nestled within one of Indiana’s most beautiful state parks, and it’s unforgettably lovely. And better yet, it’s not even terribly far from Indianapolis, so it’s the perfect adventure for anyone who doesn’t want to roam too far. It’s not every day you get to see Indiana’s natural beauty so clearly and so close by (well, as long as you’re in the city anyway). Come check out one of the most amazing hikes in Indiana for yourself!
Best Short & Easy Hikes in Indiana
Sometimes you want to go out and get your hike on without taking all day, night, or longer. Sometimes, we’re just not up for backpacking or journeying, and it’s in these cases that a short and easy Indiana hike is probably in order. You certainly don’t need to go out of your way to hike long, strenuous trails with little (or significantly delayed) reward. These short, sweet, and simple hikes in Indiana are the perfect way to indulge in the outdoors without taking all day:
4. Yellowwood Lake Trail
- Location: Yellowwood State Forest
- Mileage: 4.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: The best times to visit this trail are March through October; dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas, so keep an eye out. It takes an average of one hour and 42 minutes to complete. This trail loops completely around Yellowwood Lake, and the views are amazing. The trail uses several segments of other marked trails - so be sure to be cautious and follow the right trail! The path also requires you to navigate a shallow stream crossing, so wear shoes you’re okay with getting wet.
Yellowwood Lake Trail feels more like something out of a fairy tale than the American Midwest. Located in Nashville, this gorgeous hike is just under five miles long and makes for the perfect afternoon adventure. Yellowwood Lake is obviously the main draw, and for good reason: it’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day! Hoosier National Forest, eat your heart out: the Yellowwood State Forest is worth its weight in gold.
5. Ogle Lake Trail 7
- Location: Brown County State Park
- Mileage: 1.2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This trail takes an average of 25 minutes to complete. The best times to visit this trail are March through November, and dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. This one can get muddy after it rains. Lots of wildlife. Fees are required; there’s a $7.00 gate fee for Indiana license plates, and a $9.00 gate fee for out-of-state vehicles.
Brown County State Park is often called the most beautiful region of Indiana, and we’re inclined to agree. Ogle Lake Trail 7 is one of the best there is, with scenic views to die for and, even better still, it’s an awesome place for birding and wildlife watching, too. We’re pretty sure lakes are truly as gorgeous and serene as it gets, and Ogle Lake is pure perfection. Who says your favorite adventure hiking trail needs to be long? Not us.
6. Camp Creek and Fall Creek Trails Loop
- Location: Fort Harrison State Park
- Mileage: 2.7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This hiking trail takes an average of just under one hour to complete. The trail is open year-round and is gorgeous for as long. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Expect lots of ups and downs on the trail at first. There is some elevation climb, and there are steps one must go up and down to get to the lookout. Signage can be tough to follow, so definitely pay attention. For cars, trucks and campers, the entrance fee is $7.00 per vehicle for in-state plates and $9.00 per vehicle for out-of-state plates, seven days a week (including holidays).
Lovers of the great outdoors will adore this one! The Camp Creek and Fall Creek Trails Loop is a short and sweet hike not terribly far away from downtown Indianapolis that’s open year-round. Like all the trails on this list, it’s intensely beautiful and perfect for a day out. You can make any hike just a little bit longer by taking time to admire the little things along the way, and this trail is excellent for exactly that. We think this idyllic lake hike in Indiana is the best possible way to kill some time.
Hardest Hikes in Indiana
So, what’s the opposite of a short and sweet hike? Obviously, it’s a long and spicy hike, and thankfully for those of us who love those, Indiana’s home to several. While Indiana is not a mountainous region with tons of elevation changes and/or rock faces to scramble, it is pretty large, and many of our most amazing trails are as long as our state is “tall”, if that makes sense. Some trails even trek across the entirety of the Hoosier State, which is pretty cool – especially if you’re a backpacker and would prefer to ignore the three trails discussed previously. Check out these long, difficult hikes in Indiana if you dare!
7. Pixley Knob to Deam Lake
- Location: Clark State Forest
- Mileage: 18.0 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This lengthy hike takes an average of 8 hours and 25 minutes to complete. It’s awesome for backpacking! There’s a small parking lot at the trailhead, so arrive early to get good parking. Equip bug spray and be mindful of ticks! This is a portion of the much longer Knobstone Trail, so as usual, pay attention to signage.
Pixley Knob to Deam Lake Trail might have a strange and funny name, but don’t let that fool you: it’s one of the coolest day hikes on this list, and it’s ideal for a backpacking trip! A must-do for lovers of all things lakeside, the Pixley Knob to Deam Lake Trail is a segment of the much longer Knobstone Trail, and it’s notably one of the easier sections of said day hike. Pixley Knob to Deam Lake is truly one of those amazing hikes you’ll want to do again and again. You’ll even find campsites scattered along the way from time to time, as with many long hikes. Clark State Forest, which is where you’ll find this segment of trail, is probably one of the loveliest places in southern Indiana to check out, and we think you’ll love it.
8. John Grubb Ridge and Terrill Ridge Loop Trail
- Location: Charles C. Deam Wilderness
- Mileage: 19.4 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This adventurous trek takes an average of eight hours and 37 minutes to complete. The best times to visit this trail are September through May, and dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. This hike is a combination of older and more current trails in the Deam Wilderness Area. The trail condition varies from good in most places on current trails to barely visible/bushwhacking on old trails – pay attention. There are water crossings where your feet will get wet during most of the year! There are some hills to climb, but the grade is moderate, so pacing yourself should be fine. During the summer, stay on the more maintained trails to avoid poison ivy. Leaves of three? Let it be.
The trails known as John Grubb Ridge and Terrill Ridge Loop Trail are a couple of lengthy, totally-worth-it adventures that are perfect for hiking, backpacking, and more. It’s an impressive 19 miles long, so if you want to do the entire thing, you’d better be ready for the long haul. Done back-to-back, this is one long hike in Indiana you’re sure to love.
9. Knobstone Trail: Deam Lake to New Chapel
- Location: Deam Lake State Recreation Area
- Mileage: 16.8 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This one takes an average of seven hours and 40 minutes to complete. Another portion of the Knobstone, the views are amazing! The best times to visit this trail are May through November. This trail has some climbs to do early on; also, expect to navigate over/around felled trees! On clear days, you can sometimes see the Louisville skyline between mile markers eight and ten. Excellent for camping/backpacking. For cars, trucks and campers, the entrance fee is $7.00 per vehicle for in-state plates and $9.00 per vehicle for out-of-state plates, seven days a week (including holidays).
The gorgeous Deam Lake to New Chapel branch of the Knobstone Trail may be long, but it’s worth every step. Show up early and/or on a weekday and you have higher chances of getting it to yourself! Deam Lake is outstanding in its beauty, so it’s no wonder it gets mentioned again. That’s just a sign you definitely need to go – preferably sooner than later.
Best Waterfront Hikes in Indiana
What’s better than a long hike? Better than a short hike? Okay, what’s better than any old hike? How about a waterfront hike? We think yes. Few things are more relaxing and tranquilizing to the soul as water is, and whether it’s a river, a creek, a lake, or a beach, water plays a huge role in our lives and ought to be celebrated. What better way to celebrate than by doing some of the downright best waterfront hikes in Indiana? Seriously, see our lakes and rivers like never before on trails like:
10. Three Lakes Trail
- Location: Morgan Monroe State Forest
- Mileage: 10.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This trek takes an average of four hours and 15 minutes to do, and it’s open year-round. Dogs are always welcome on a leash! Do note that only two of the lakes are visible. The third lake at the southern end of the loop, Bean Blossom Lake, was drained when the levee failed in 1993, so it hasn’t been there for a while. When you go around the middle lake, there is little or no signage to get you back on the path, so stay alert and know your surroundings. Oh, and definitely bring bug spray!
Oh, beautiful Three Lakes Trail, how do we love thee? Nestled inside the Morgan-Monroe State Forest, the Three Lakes Trail is a perfect way to spend a nice afternoon outdoors (or a morning, whichever you’d prefer – your adventure is up to you). The name is kind of funny, considering that there are only TWO lakes along this one – but hey, two’s better than one, right? We think so. This is probably one of the greatest lakeside hiking trails in Indiana, so it’s obvious as to why it made the list.
11. Indiana Dunes Trail 8 to Trail 4
- Location: Indiana Dunes National Park
- Mileage: 1.8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This trail takes an average of just under one hour to complete. It's very popular among humans, but you’ll have to leave Fido at home. It’s open year-round, too! The parking lots, trails, and beach are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. As mentioned above, Indiana Dunes National Park costs $15-$20 for a standard entrance pass. You also have the option of getting a $45 Annual Entrance Pass. On this hike you’ll climb the three tallest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park! This challenging, rewarding trail is the toughest one in the park, with 552 vertical feet to climb. Protip: Go clockwise from the trailhead. It’s slightly easier that way.
Ah, we return to Indiana Dunes National Park (also known as Indiana Dunes State Park, though it is not a state park any longer - it graduated) to conquer the Trail 8 to Trail 4 Loop. Open year-round, this epic hike offers up some truly awe-striking views of Lake Michigan. If you enjoyed the previous Indiana Dunes hikes, you’re going to adore this one – so be sure to add it to the ol’ to-do list. This truly cinematic sand dunes hike in Indiana is like nothing else in this world... not even the other trails in the same park.
12. Brown County State Park: Trail 8
- Location: Brown County State Park
- Mileage: 3.9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This trail takes an average of an hour and 38 minutes to complete. It’s open year-round, and dogs are welcome on a leash. When you come to a T in the trail, go left if you don't want to climb 150 steps! Combine this trek with Ogle Lake Trail for even better views. This trail can occasionally get muddy; wear good shoes and pack water as always.
When it comes to the most outrageously photogenic places in Indiana, Brown County is IT. Trail 8 at Brown County State Park is an awesome ambassador for the rest of it all. Highlighting truly the best parts of the most beautiful state park in Indiana, Trail 8 is everything that’s right with the world... or at least the Hoosier State.
Best Winter Hikes in Indiana
Who says you can’t go hiking during the winter? We sure don’t. Turns out, winter in Indiana is actually one of the best times to get out and hike. The trails that are open (and there are many) offer all sorts of breathtakingly beautiful winter views, and honestly, what DOESN’T look better dusted in a fine layer of brilliant white snow? These awesome cold-weather hiking trails in Indiana sure do. Dress warm and remember to pack water anyway: you’ll need it when your jaw drops a dozen times on each trail.
13. Trevlac Bluffs Bottomland Loop Trail
- Location: Helmsburg, IN
- Mileage: 1.1 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This hike takes an average of 21 minutes to complete. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. The trails have a number of muddy spots during any wet time of year, so wear your mud boots (or at least shoes you don’t mind getting muddy) if it’s been raining. The trail is nicely marked with arrows, and you’ll find maps on posts at each intersection with the spur trails. Bring high socks; the grass is tall and can be dewy or wet.
The Trevlac Bluffs Bottomland Loop Trail is a cute little urban trail located in Helmsburg that doesn’t even take a half-hour, making it the perfect lunchtime escape. Should you want to take longer, the Trevlac Bluffs Nature Preserve has two trails - one on the northern side and one on the southern side. The southern trail is a portion of the longer (and totally awesome) Yellowwod Trail and goes to the bluffs. The northern trail is the Bottomland Trail, and it’s a 0.7-mile easy loop with two smaller spur trails that meander out to Bean Blossom Creek. And man, when it’s chilly outside, this awesome winter hike in Indiana really hits the spot.
14. B&O Bike Trail
- Location: Indianapolis, IN
- Mileage: 2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This delight is an urban trail, so be ready for city settings (and snow plows, yay). It takes an average of 43 minutes to complete, and it’s open year-round. Dogs are welcome on leash. There are two road crossings along the way, so be careful! This trail can be very crowded during an Indy 500 Race, so you might want to avoid high-tourism times. The trail surface is paved asphalt or otherwise concrete and smooth. It is typically at least six feet wide. This trail will likely be navigable for most wheelchairs/mobility equipment and/or stroller users. Watch for ice on sidewalks during winter adventures!
The B&O Bike Trail is more than just a bike trail in Indiana; it’s an experience. It’s not overly short, but it’s not too long, either, making it just right if you ask us. We suspect it might just be one of the best short hikes in Indiana thanks to its beauty and its convenience. The trail is not, obviously, limited only to bikers – it's a favorite among hikers and walkers, too, as it’s both easy and a great way to get out and move more.
15. Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area Loop
- Location: Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area
- Mileage: 4.3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI This hike takes an average of one hour and 16 minutes to finish. Dogs are always welcome on a leash. Watch for longer grass sometimes! There are no fees for river access. Ticks can be a thing, so be prepared with bug spray and check exposed skin upon leaving.
Animal lovers get ready because it’s time for another hike on a wildlife preserve filled with real habitats of real critters! Who knew that winter was one of the best times to visit the Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area Loop (and the park it’s attached to, too)? Well, now you do – skip the heat and come do this hike when it’s covered in a fresh layer of snow. It’s awesomely beautiful, like something from a postcard. We might even dare say it could be one of the most magical hikes in Indiana.
Best Hikes Near Indianapolis
Finally, we come to the capital city: Indianapolis, baby! Even if you’re used to the city and the bustle of city life, you probably still crave the outdoors sometimes. In that case, we’ve tracked down some of the most wonderful hikes in and nearby Indianapolis, so you never need to go that far. You’d be amazed at just how beautiful these trails are – being close to the city has, in this case at least, absolutely no ill effect on the quality of the nearby trails. Come out and see!
16. Eagle Creek Red Trail Short Loop
- Location: Eagle Creek Park
- Mileage: 4.1 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This one takes an average of one hour and 22 minutes to complete. It’s a popular trail for hikers and runners, so be prepared to share the space with others. It’s well marked, and it can get very muddy following rains. Expect a few road crossings and be careful! The cost to enter the park is $5.00. During spring and summer, you can literally smell the wildflowers along the way. Score!
Looking for something to do near Indy? Look no further, for we’ve found the best hikes in the city to enjoy on those days where being inside just isn’t going to cut it. The wonderful Eagle Creek Red Trail Short Loop is scenic, easy, and perfect to get out for a while. This is one waterfront hike in Indiana you don’t want to skip!
17. Schoen Creek Trail
- Location: Fort Harrison State Park
- Mileage: 3.1 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This trail takes an average of one hour to finish. It’s a very popular hike. Dogs are welcome on a leash. This area is prone to closure in the event of inclement weather conditions. For more information, please visit https://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2982.htm This trek contains lots of varied elevation and environments. Watch for mountain bikers and pay close attention to markers; it can be easy to get lost on this one. Bring bug spray – you won’t regret it. For cars, trucks and campers, the entrance fee is $7.00 per vehicle for in-state plates and $9.00 per vehicle for out-of-state plates, seven days a week (including holidays).
Speaking of waterfront hiking trails in Indiana, Schoen Creek Trail is another hidden gem near Indy worth mentioning. With some excellent meadows, woods, and other flora and fauna to see here, you’ll never get bored. You can do the whole hike all at once, but what’s the fun in that? Take some time... stop... and enjoy. You’ll be glad you did. The Schoen Creek Trail is one of those awesomely unforgettable hiking trails in Indiana that you’ll want to do again and again.
18. South Overlook Waterfowl Sanctuary Trail
- Location: Eagle Creek Park
- Mileage: 2.4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- FYI: This one takes an average of just under one hour to complete and is very popular. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit always! Dogs are welcome, but they must be on a leash. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is a good idea. Definitely bring bug spray. The cost to enter the park is $5.00.
Last on this list but certainly not least at anything, the epic South Overlook Waterfowl Sanctuary Trail is yet another amazing hike on an animal sanctuary (we’re beginning to see a pattern here). There are lots of things to do and see at this awesome little Indiana Nature Preserve, and there’s little doubt you’ll fall in love with it just like we did. Check it out and see for yourself!
Truly, there is nowhere in the world like Indiana when it comes to hikes, hiking trails, and all things outdoors. This state is truly an amazing place, and there’s no better way to explore it in depth than on foot! With quite literally over 1,000 amazing hiking trails in Indiana to choose from, you might need an entire lifetime to do and see it all. Try AllTrails+ For Free and start planning your next great adventure.
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More to Explore
Best Hikes in Indiana
- Does Indiana have good hiking trails?
Indiana absolutely has wonderful hiking trails! When it comes to the best hiking in the United States, Indiana is one of the best hidden gems. Let's be real: folks don't really think of Indiana - or the Midwest in general - when it comes to awesome hiking trails, but perhaps they should. There are numerous amazing options for hiking in Indiana, such as:
- The Low Gap Trail at Morgan Monroe State Forest - This trail is incredibly beautiful, and it consists of a ten-mile loop. It's a favorite among Indiana hikers for a reason (many reasons, really).
- Hemlock Cliffs National Scenic Trail - If you're a lover of unique geology, this is the hike for you - it's even got a waterfall!
- Adventure Hiking Trail - This is a lengthy, 21.7-mile adventure (it's even in the name) that offers top-notch river views along the way.
Learn more about the best hiking trails in Indiana.
2. What are the best months to hike in Indiana?
The best months to hike in Indiana are January through December - truly! There isn't a bad time to go hiking in Indiana, even when there's snow on the ground. There are amazing trails for every season, like:
- Spring - Bendix Woods County Park is an amazing place to go hiking all year, but during the spring, it really shines!
- Summer - Any of the amazing waterfall trails in Indiana will suffice, and there are plenty of them. Check out the best waterfall hikes in Indiana.
- Autumn - Trail #8 at Clifty Falls State Park is one of the best autumn hikes in Indiana, and you won't believe your eyes. It's truly like something out of a fairy tale.
- Winter - Fall Creek Trail is found within Fort Harrison State Park and is definitely one of the most amazing cold-weather hikes in Indiana.
3. How many hiking trails are in Indiana?
At the time of this writing, there are more than 1,000 established hiking trails in Indiana. According to our friends at AllTrails, there are 1,086 hiking trails in Indiana. It would take a lifetime to do them all - but you can most certainly try (and we encourage it).