Indiana is a Midwestern state known as the 'Crossroads of America,' celebrated for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan, a vibrant craft brewing scene, and rich Native American and Civil War history. From the urban energy of Indianapolis to the rolling hills of Brown County and the sand dunes of the Lake Michigan shoreline, Indiana offers surprising variety for travelers.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Trail 9 (Canyon Trail), Turkey Run State Park
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2
Mt. Baldy Trail, Indiana Dunes National Park
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3
Trail 2 (Waterfall Loop), Clifty Falls State Park
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4
Hesitation Point Trail, Brown County State Park
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5
Cataract Falls Trail
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6
Pioneer Village Trail, Spring Mill State Park
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7
Swamp Rose / Aspen Loop, Potato Creek State Park
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8
Dune Succession Trail, Indiana Dunes National Park
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9
Ravine Trail, Shades State Park
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10
Canyon Loop Trail, McCormick's Creek State Park
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Indiana.
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Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Poison ivy is widespread in Indiana forests — learn to identify it; wash skin if exposed.
Hazard: Deer ticks carrying Lyme disease are present in wooded and grassy areas. Wear long pants and check thoroughly after hiking.
Hazard: Turkey Run canyon stream crossings can be knee-deep after heavy rain — do not attempt with non-waterproof footwear.
Hazard: Dune hiking (Mt. Baldy, Indiana Dunes) is strenuous in heat — bring 1–2L of water per person.
Hazard: Indiana Dunes beach cliffs are unstable — do not climb unmarked cliff faces.