TOP 30 Best Moderate hikes in Indiana

Brown County State Park, also known as the "Little Smokies", is a stunning natural attraction located at 1801 Indiana 46 in Nashville, Indiana, United States. Spanning nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines, this park offers visitors a picturesque landscape reminiscent of the Great Smoky Mountains. With its tree-lined roads, scenic vistas, and uninterrupted forestland, it is a popular destination for experiencing the vibrant colors of fall. The park features the rustic Abe Martin Lodge, which provides accommodations such as motel rooms, cabins, dining facilities, and an indoor water park. Additionally, visitors can enjoy large campgrounds, hiking and mountain biking trails, guided horse rides, and a variety of outdoor activities year-round. The surrounding county and town of Nashville offer unique shopping, dining, arts and crafts, and entertainment options. For those looking to explore the park further, there are several trails of varying difficulty levels that wind through the diverse terrain. From the moderate Lodge Trail to the rugged Taylor Ridge Trail, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. Visitors can also embark on a self-guided auto tour that covers major spots within the park, providing an immersive experience of its natural beauty.

Green's Bluff Trail Head is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at County Road 75 East in Spencer, Indiana, United States. The institution has undergone great improvements, with new trails and interpretive signage added to enhance visitor enjoyment. Thanks to a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, a second trail and ten acres of pollinator habitat have been created at the preserve. Visitors can explore the North Loop Trail, a 1.2-mile moderate loop trail through the northern section of Green’s Bluff, or the Raccoon Woods Trail, a 1.4-mile moderate loop trail through the newer southern section. Both trails offer opportunities to spot migrating birds, admire colorful leaves, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Pokagon State Park is a popular tourist attraction located near Angola, Indiana, just off I-69. Originally named Lake James State Park, it was renamed to honor the Native American heritage of the region. The park features the Potawatomi Inn, named after Leopold and Simon Pokagon, prominent leaders of the Potawatomi tribe. The park showcases the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps, with beautiful stone and log structures built by members in the 1930s. Surrounded by natural lakes created by glaciers, Pokagon State Park offers abundant opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and scenic sunsets. In the winter, visitors can enjoy activities such as cross-country skiing, sledding, and a thrilling toboggan run operating from November to February. The park also offers various hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderately rugged, showcasing diverse habitats and scenic overlooks.

Cataract Falls State Recreation Area, located at 2605 North Cataract Road in Spencer, Indiana, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The park is part of Lieber State Recreation Area, which covers 8,075 acres and includes a 1,400-acre lake. The Cataract Falls, fed by Mill Creek, are a stunning natural feature within the park. The area has a rich history, once inhabited by the Miami, Shawnee, and Potawatomi tribes. In the 1800s, the Miami Indian Confederacy sold part of Indiana to the U.S. government, and the 10 O'Clock Treaty Line passes through the park. Visitors can learn more about the area's history and legends at the Nature Center, where Interpretive Naturalist staff are available to provide information.

Tippecanoe River State Park, located at 4200 N US Hwy 35, Winamac, Indiana, is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful river, extensive trail system, and historic structures built by the Works Project Administration in the 1930s. The park offers 23 miles of trails, suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and even camping. Visitors can enjoy a variety of camping options, including primitive sites, camper cabins, and youth tent areas. One of the highlights of the park is the 90-foot fire tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Tepicon Recreation Hall, listed on the National Register of Historical Places, is a popular venue for weddings, family reunions, and company picnics. With seating for up to 120 people, the hall can be reserved through camp.IN.gov.

Potato Creek State Park, located at 25601 Indiana 4, North Liberty, Indiana, is a popular tourist attraction offering a wide array of activities and facilities for year-round enjoyment. The park features a variety of natural habitats including Worster Lake, old fields, woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, providing unique opportunities for plant and wildlife observation. The park's history dates back to Native American hunting and fishing activities, with European settlers arriving in the 1830s. The park is set to introduce a new 120-room lodge and conference center, set on the southern shore of Worster Lake, providing a picturesque view and access to various recreational amenities.

The Visitor Center at Prophetstown State Park is a travel agency located at 4112 Indiana 225, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States. The center offers admission that includes entrance into The Farm at Prophetstown. The property is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., while the Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Aquatic Center is seasonal, so visitors are encouraged to call the office for details. Prophetstown State Park is Indiana's newest state park, situated at the meeting point of the Tippecanoe River and the Wabash River near Battle Ground. The landscape has been shaped by natural elements and human intervention, with Native American history dating back thousands of years.

Fern Cliff Nature Preserve is a stunning natural site located in Greencastle, Indiana, United States. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1980, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its steep sandstone cliffs, lush wooded ravines, and abundant ferns and bryophytes. The preserve is a botanist's paradise, with rare plant species and unique vegetation. Managed by The Nature Conservancy in partnership with other organizations, Fern Cliff aims to protect native plant species from invasive threats like autumn olive. Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and bird watching on the preserve's moderate to rugged terrain. Rock climbing and rappelling are not allowed, but the diverse flora and fauna make for a rewarding outdoor experience.

Fort Harrison State Park Dog Park is located at 8725 Fall Creek Road in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States. This park is part of the larger Fort Harrison State Park, which also includes the Fort Harrison Inn, The Fort Golf Course, The Garrison Restaurant, and Conference Center. The park offers a variety of activities for patrons to enjoy year-round. In the winter, visitors can take advantage of one of the biggest sledding hills in the area. Spring brings the opportunity to walk among woodland wildflowers in full bloom, while summer is perfect for canoe trips down Fall Creek. In the autumn, warm days and vibrant fall colors make Fort Harrison a must-visit destination.

Charlestown State Park, located in southern Indiana, was once part of the Indiana Army Ammunition plant. With scenic vistas of the Fourteenmile Creek valley and the Ohio River, the park offers rugged hills, deep ravines, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore various trails, such as the Rugged Trail (2.4 miles) or the Moderate Trail (1.4 miles), which showcase the park's natural beauty and history. The Rose Island Loop Trail (.9 miles) takes hikers to the site of a 1920s amusement park, while the 5K Course (3.1 miles) offers a challenging running route. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or fitness enthusiast, Charlestown State Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Prophetstown State Park is Indiana's newest state park, located at the meeting point of the Tippecanoe River and the Wabash River near Battle Ground, northeast of Lafayette. The park's landscape has been shaped by natural forces and human hands over thousands of years. Visitors can explore 1920s farm life, Native American culture, and 900 acres of restored prairie through a unique partnership with The Farm at Prophetstown. The park offers various trails for hiking and biking, ranging from easy to moderate levels of difficulty. The trails wind through tallgrass prairies, shaded paths along Harrison Creek, and floodplain forests, providing stunning views of the surrounding natural habitats. The park is also home to wetlands, fens, and open woodlands that are being restored to their native state.

Lincoln State Park, Campground Shelter is located in Lincoln City, Indiana, United States. This institution offers a unique opportunity to explore the boyhood home of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Nestled among rolling hills and thick forests, the park provides 10 miles of hiking trails, two scenic lakes, and an interpretive center to learn about the early settlers in southern Indiana. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay at one of the campgrounds, cabins, or group cottages while exploring the historic sites within the park, such as the Colonel Jones Home and the Little Pigeon Creek Baptist Church and Cemetery. The park, established in 1932 as a memorial to Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks, also features facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.

O'Bannon Woods State Park, located at 7234 Old Forest Road in Corydon, Indiana, offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The park features a campground, lodging options, and beautiful natural surroundings. One of the highlights of the park is the uniquely restored haypress barn, complete with oxen for power and a pioneer farmstead. The park is also home to the Blue River, Indiana's first natural and scenic river, which flows through the state park and forest. Nearby, visitors can explore the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site, where they can learn about early Indiana history by touring the first state capitol building, built entirely of limestone.

Turkey Run State Park Campground is a picturesque retreat located at 1576 Indiana 47 in Marshall, Indiana. This campground, lodging, and park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural geologic wonders of the area through its famous trails. Nestled along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, the park features deep sandstone ravines, aged forests, and scenic views along Sugar Creek. One of the highlights of the park is the Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin, which pays tribute to the father of Indiana's state park system. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of trails ranging from moderate to rugged, each offering a unique hiking experience through the park's stunning landscapes.

Big Walnut Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 9498 North Co Road 425 East in Bainbridge, Indiana, United States. This large forest is home to a diverse range of plant life and has been designated as a National Natural Landmark since 1968. Co-managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Nature Preserves (DNP), the preserve spans over 2,400 acres and plays a crucial role in protecting local plants, animals, and natural communities. Visitors can explore the preserve through a variety of trails, including the Tall Timbers Trail, Doyle Trail, and Rayfield Trail. The Tall Timbers Trail offers breathtaking views and a moderate 2.8-mile loop hike, while the Doyle Trail features a 1.3-mile loop through tree plantations. The Rayfield Trail is an easy 2-mile out-and-back route that ends with a beautiful view of Big Walnut Creek.

Rose Island Abandoned Theme Park is a unique institution located at 12500 Indiana 62, Charlestown, Indiana, United States. Once a part of the Indiana Army Ammunition plant, this park offers a rugged and scenic experience for visitors. With over 15,000 acres of land, Charlestown State Park boasts stunning views of the Fourteenmile Creek valley and the Ohio River. The park features various trails for hiking, including the Rugged Trail, Moderate Trail, and Rose Island Loop Trail. Visitors can explore Devonian fossil outcrops, karst sinkhole topography, and a variety of bird species, including bluebirds and bald eagles. The park also has a 5K course for those looking for a fitness challenge. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Rose Island, a 1920s amusement park that was damaged by the 1937 flood. Explore the remnants of the park, including a small zoo, pony rides, and more. Come and experience the beauty and history of Rose Island Abandoned Theme Park.

Welcome to Black Rock Nature Preserve, a hidden gem located at 11598 East 350 North, Otterbein, Indiana. Nestled in the heart of Warren County, this unique park offers a rare glimpse into Indiana's north central region's natural beauty. Managed by the NICHES Land Trust, Black Rock Nature Preserve boasts stunning siltstone glades and sandstone outcroppings, surrounded by delicate wildflowers that make this habitat truly one-of-a-kind. Originally gifted to NICHES by The Nature Conservancy of Indiana in 1999 and dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 2002, Black Rock is a testament to conservation and ecological stewardship. NICHES, in collaboration with the Indiana Heritage Trust and Division of Nature Preserves, is committed to preserving this pristine environment by monitoring and removing invasive species and allowing farmed fields to revert to their natural state.

Mounds State Recreation Area is a popular tourist attraction located at 14108 Indiana 101 in Brookville, Indiana, United States. This park is a part of the Brookville Lake-Whitewater Memorial State Park Complex and covers a total of 16,445 acres, including a 5,260-acre lake. The area is known for its prehistoric Native American mounds and significant deposit of 450-million-year-old Ordovician fossils. Visitors to Mounds SRA can enjoy over 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and world-renowned recreational and sport fishing. The park also features two beaches and more than 400 campsites, making it an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Campground Charlestown State Park is a beautiful institution located in Charlestown, Indiana, United States. Originally part of the Indiana Army Ammunition plant, this 15,000-acre park offers rugged hills, deep ravines, and scenic vistas of the Fourteenmile Creek valley and the Ohio River. With elevation changes of over 200 feet, the park is perfect for hiking and exploring the diverse terrain. Bird watchers will delight in spotting the 72 species of birds, including bluebirds, black vultures, and even the occasional bald eagle. The park offers a variety of trails for visitors to enjoy, ranging from easy to moderate to rugged. Explore the Rugged Trail, which winds through dense floodplain forest and offers stunning views of Fourteenmile Creek. Or take a leisurely stroll on the Rose Island Loop Trail, where you can learn about the park's history as an amusement park in the 1920s.

Located in Brookville, Indiana, the Brookville Reservoir is a popular tourist attraction within the Brookville Lake - Whitewater Memorial State Park Complex. With a 5,260-acre lake and over 16,445 acres of land, this institution offers a variety of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities for visitors. The area is rich in history, with traces of prehistoric Native American mounds and significant deposits of 450-million-year-old Ordovician fossils. The reservoir is also home to two State Recreation Areas, Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA, offering more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing.

The Potato Creek Park Office & Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 25601 Indiana 4, North Liberty, Indiana, United States. This institution offers a wide array of activities and facilities for year-round enjoyment in the beautiful natural habitats of Potato Creek. The park features the 327-acre Worster Lake, old fields, mature woodlands, restored prairies, and diverse wetlands, providing unique opportunities for plant and wildlife observation. The area has a rich history, with Native peoples using it for hunting and fishing, and European settlers arriving in the 1830s. The park is also home to the upcoming 120-room lodge and conference center, set to open in 2026 or 2027 on the southern shore of Worster Lake.

Welcome to Turkey Run Trails 3, 5, and 9 Loop Trailhead, a picturesque park located in the heart of Marshall, Indiana. Nestled within the lush landscapes of Indiana's scenic countryside, our park offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Explore the beauty of Turkey Run State Park through our well-maintained loop trails, each offering a unique experience for hikers of all skill levels. Trail 3 is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature, featuring gentle paths and breathtaking views of sandstone gorges and lush forests. For a bit more of a challenge, Trail 5 offers a moderately rugged terrain that winds through stunning ravines and past iconic landmarks such as the Lusk Home and Mill Site. Trail 9 is ideal for the avid hiker, providing a more strenuous journey with its diverse landscapes and rewarding vistas.

Located in Winamac, Indiana, the Tippecanoe River Tent Camp is a popular campground, lodging, and park destination. The main attraction of this institution is the Tippecanoe River, which is perfect for canoers and kayakers. Visitors can bring their own equipment or make arrangements with local liveries. The institution boasts 23 miles of trails, with 9 miles designated for hiking only and 14 miles for a combination of hiking and horseback riding. The trails are rated as easy to moderate, making them suitable for all skill levels.

McCormicks Creek Trail 3 is a picturesque hiking trail located in Spencer, Indiana, United States. This trail is part of the McCormicks Creek State Park, a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Trail 3 offers hikers a moderate level of difficulty, with stunning views of waterfalls, rock formations, and lush forests along the way. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and immersive experience in nature while exploring this picturesque trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in the park, McCormicks Creek Trail 3 is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Welcome to the Indiana Dunes National Park Tolleston Dunes Parking Lot, conveniently located in Ogden Dunes, Indiana. This parking facility serves as the gateway to the stunning Tolleston Dunes Trail, a natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the geological history of the region. The Tolleston Dunes, the youngest of three distinct dune systems in the national park, began forming approximately 4,700 years ago when Lake Michigan's water level was significantly higher. The parking lot is situated on flat land, a remnant of the area's sand mining past, and provides easy access to the trailhead. From here, embark on the 2.9-mile lollipop-shaped Tolleston Dunes Trail, which winds through diverse habitats including rare black oak savanna and vibrant wetlands. Along the trail, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of flora such as the prickly pear cactus, butterfly weed, and wild blue lupine.

Welcome to Campground, your ultimate retreat nestled in the heart of nature at Park Road, Jasonville, Indiana. Surrounded by the serene beauty of Shakamak State Park, our campground offers the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. With three stunning man-made lakes covering 400 acres, guests can indulge in fishing, boating, or simply soaking up the serene aquatic views. For those seeking family fun, our aquatic center is a splash hit, and the nearby play field offers endless entertainment. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our wooded campsites, which provide cool shade during the summer and breathtaking fall colors in autumn. Our group camp is a popular feature, perfect for gatherings and making memories.

Located in Bloomingdale, Indiana, Camel's Back is a renowned landmark and tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of its beautiful park. With deep sandstone ravines, aged forests, and scenic views along Sugar Creek, this park is a hiker's paradise. The Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin pays tribute to the father of Indiana's state park system. The park features a variety of trails of different difficulty levels, allowing visitors to choose the one that suits them best. From the moderate/rugged Big-Tree Trail to the very rugged Ladders Trail, there is something for everyone to enjoy. However, it's important to note that some trails may be impassable during high water, so caution is advised.

Welcome to Mossy Point: A Nature Lover's Paradise Nestled in the heart of Bloomingdale, Indiana, Mossy Point is a serene and ecologically diverse park that promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Located at 39 854454, Bloomingdale, Indiana 47832, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of high ridges, sandy ravines, and breathtaking views of the ever-charming Sugar Creek.

Discover Goose Pond Cypress Slough Nature Preserve Welcome to Goose Pond Cypress Slough Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Posey County, Indiana. Located on Indian Mound Road in Mount Vernon, this enchanting park offers a rare glimpse of the Deep South right here in southwestern Indiana. Dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1995, Goose Pond is a unique ecosystem featuring a series of small sloughs that stretch along the Ohio River floodplain.