TOP 30 Best Nature trails and hikes in Indiana

The White Lick Creek Trail Head is a beautiful park located at 500 West Main Street in Plainfield, Indiana, United States. This scenic trail head offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, providing access to the White Lick Creek Trail for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. With lush greenery, picturesque views, and a tranquil atmosphere, this park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the White Lick Creek Trail Head has something for everyone to enjoy.

Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is a peaceful oasis located at 10410 Hague Road in Fishers, Indiana, United States. This park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails through lush forests, serene ponds, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll, a place to birdwatch, or a spot for a picnic, Ritchey Woods has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of this popular tourist attraction.

Leonard Springs Nature Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 4685 South Leonard Springs Road in Bloomington, Indiana. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush greenery, scenic trails, and stunning water features, Leonard Springs Nature Park is the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun adventure with family and friends, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and explore the beauty of Leonard Springs Nature Park in Bloomington, Indiana.

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.

Rivertown Trail is a scenic park located in Newburgh, Indiana, United States. This beautiful trail follows the river, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, or biking along the trail while taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The Rivertown Trail is the perfect place to relax and unwind, surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.

Welcome to Barker Woods Nature Preserve Nestled in the heart of Michigan City, Indiana, at 444 Barker Road, Barker Woods Nature Preserve offers a serene escape into nature amidst an urban residential setting. Established as a dedicated state nature preserve in 1975, Barker Woods is a rare urban example of an old-growth forest, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The James P. Covell Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2727 County Road 52 in Auburn, Indiana, United States. This preserve spans 2,700 feet along Cedar Creek's west bank and was generously donated by Dr. Jack Covell to preserve his late brother's land for the local wildlife. The preserve features a variety of habitats, including 40 acres of agricultural land, 33 acres of emerging upland forest, and 23 acres of mature forested floodplain. The property is home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as wild turkeys, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, minks, otters, and more. Some of the trees in the preserve are over 150 years old.

Cool Creek Park Nature Center is a popular destination in Carmel, Indiana, offering a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy. With 90 acres of beautiful parkland, visitors can explore 4 miles of wooded trails, perfect for hiking, jogging, and bird watching. Scenic paved roads are also available for cycling and rollerblading. In addition to the trails, the park features playgrounds, soccer fields, and a basketball court for more active pursuits. Nature lovers can appreciate the wetlands, prairies, and benches along the trails, all installed by Eagle Scouts. The Cool Creek Nature Center is a hub for learning about Indiana woodlands and the importance of preserving natural habitats, open daily for exploration.

Lilly Nature Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 1620 Lindberg Road in West Lafayette, Indiana, United States. This serene oasis offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Lilly Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in West Lafayette.

Moraine Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Valparaiso, Indiana, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature in a serene and peaceful setting. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, Moraine Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to hike, bird watch, or simply relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, this institution provides a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come visit Moraine Nature Preserve and experience the beauty and tranquility of the great outdoors.

The Nature Center in Winamac, Indiana, is a travel agency dedicated to providing unique and immersive outdoor experiences. Nestled in the heart of the United States, this institution offers a wide range of nature-based activities and tours for adventurers of all ages. From guided hikes through scenic trails to wildlife watching excursions, visitors can explore the beauty and diversity of the surrounding environment. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature or simply seeking a new adventure, the Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

Fred & Dorothy Meyer Nature Preserve, located at Observatory Road in Martinsville, Indiana, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that is part of the Long Ridge conservation area. Visitors can enjoy a dramatic hike through steep slopes, ridges, and valleys in a large forest block that is unbroken by roads. The forest interior habitat is home to rare native species such as hooded and worm-eating warblers, Eastern box turtle, and the state-endangered cerulean warbler. The preserve features plants that are characteristic of the acidic, sharply drained soil of the ridges, including chestnut oak, black oak, pignut hickory, greenbriar, and star chickweed. In the protected ravines, visitors can find American beech, red oak, white ash, painted sedge, yellow trout lily, and bloodroot. This special property was made possible by a generous donation from Bob Meyer and his family, with additional support from the Indiana Heritage Trust. The preserve is dedicated to Fred Meyer, who played a key role in establishing the state's first dedicated nature preserve in 1969. The original 14 acres known as Shalom Woods was donated by the Cohen family in the 1990s.

Lindenwood Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located at 600 Lindenwood Avenue in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This beautiful preserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with winding trails through lush forests, tranquil ponds, and vibrant meadows. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. With its diverse ecosystem and stunning natural beauty, Lindenwood Nature Preserve is a true gem in the heart of Fort Wayne.

Vandolah Nature Preserve, managed by the ACRES Land Trust, is a peaceful oasis located at 16151 Tother Road in Indiana, United States. Despite the constant hum of Interstate 69 nearby, this preserve offers a glimpse into the region's natural beauty before development took over. Originally owned by James and Rebecca Vandolah in the 19th century, the preserve's woodlands and wetlands have been preserved for future generations to enjoy. Thanks to a generous gift from their great-grandson, Barney Stellhorn, the land is now protected by ACRES Land Trust.

Pipewort Pond Nature Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 51737 County Road 23 in Bristol, Indiana, United States. This tranquil oasis offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with a serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along scenic trails, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and idyllic setting. Whether you're looking to unwind and relax or explore the great outdoors, Pipewort Pond Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Pecar Park Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 5203 East County Road 150 North in Avon, Indiana. This nature center offers a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to connect with the outdoors and explore the natural beauty of the area. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs that highlight the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography while immersing themselves in the peaceful surroundings. Pecar Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages to unwind and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Altherr Nature Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 724 South Main Street in Monticello, Indiana, United States. This popular tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, lush greenery, and beautiful wildlife in this well-maintained park. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a fun day out with family and friends, Altherr Nature Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and explore the beauty of nature at this hidden gem in Monticello!

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.

Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve, managed by the Sycamore Land Trust, is a picturesque park located on North Woodall Road in Ellettsville, Indiana, United States. This beautiful tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. With its lush greenery, serene walking trails, and diverse wildlife, Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve is the perfect place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Touch the Earth Natural Area is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located on North Country Club Road in Columbus, Indiana, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings of lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, Touch the Earth Natural Area provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and explore this hidden gem and reconnect with the earth in this peaceful oasis.

Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve, located at 8484 South Ketcham Road in Bloomington, Indiana, is a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts in the Hoosier State. Featuring a 75-foot high limestone bluff and gnarled red cedars clinging to cliffs, this preserve showcases species adaptation and survival in a harsh environment. The stunning views and challenging terrain make it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers alike. Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, Cedar Bluffs offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem and learn about the importance of conservation efforts. Visitors must use the marked access trail from Ketcham Road to enter the preserve and are reminded to stay on designated paths to protect the native vegetation. With its rich biodiversity and geological history, Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Cheeney Creek Natural Area, located at 11030 Fishers Pointe Boulevard in Fishers, Indiana, is a 25-acre park that serves as a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a variety of amenities, including fishing ponds, greenways, and nearly 2 miles of nature and multi-use trails for hiking and birdwatching. Visitors can explore the grassland corridor along the Cheeney Creek Greenway or take a leisurely stroll along the soft surface woodland trail that runs alongside Cheeney Creek. The park is home to some of the largest trees in Fishers, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for outdoor activities.

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.

Richmond Parks and Recreation is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2200 East Main Street in Richmond, Indiana, United States. This institution offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and more. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get active with some outdoor fun, Richmond Parks and Recreation has something for everyone. Come visit this picturesque destination and experience the beauty of the great outdoors in Richmond.

Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located in Michigan City, Indiana. This Indiana state nature preserve is a sanctuary for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare club mosses, colorful mushrooms, salamanders, migratory birds, and hooting owls. With vernal pools, rivulets, and woodland ponds, the preserve comes alive in early spring with a chorus of calling frogs. This unique boreal flatwoods natural community is home to at least 39 state-listed plant species and many others considered rare in the region. Visitors can explore the preserve's trails and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The main parking lot is conveniently located on Meer Road, with additional parking available at the northern trailhead on Freyer Road. Come discover the wonders of Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve and experience the magic of the great outdoors.

Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located at 6201 Parrish Avenue in Hammond, Indiana, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs available for all ages. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Maple Avenue Nature Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 500 Maple Avenue in Terre Haute, Indiana. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature. With lush greenery, winding trails, and a variety of wildlife, Maple Avenue Nature Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a picnic spot, or a place to birdwatch, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Maple Avenue Nature Park and experience the tranquility of nature in the heart of Terre Haute.

The Jacob Schramm Nature Preserve is a tranquil park and tourist attraction located at 1926 South 600 West in New Palestine, Indiana, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods or simply relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature, the Jacob Schramm Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Indiana's countryside.

Welcome to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Schererville, Indiana. Located at 135 East Main Street, this remarkable preserve is one of the few remaining grasslands in the Midwest, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's natural heritage. Dedicated as both a State Nature Preserve and a National Natural Landmark in 1977, Hoosier Prairie is a sanctuary of ecological diversity amidst the industrial backdrop of Northwest Indiana. Spanning a rich tapestry of rolling topography and sandy soils, the preserve is home to more than 350 native plant species, including 43 that are uncommon or rarely seen in Indiana, such as the striking wild white indigo. This vibrant ecosystem supports a variety of habitats, from dry black oak barrens to wetland pools and wet prairies, all carefully conserved to maintain their natural beauty and ecological importance.