When you think of Indiana you don’t think of amazing hiking trips. However, once you dig a little you will find some unique state parks in Indiana that have some fantastic hiking trails. Out of the 24 state parks located throughout the Hoosier state, 6 of which have hiking challenges that can be completed solo or as a family. Each hike will require you to visit designated stops to take photos/selfies. You will then show those photos to a ranger at the nature center to collect your reward of a park sticker.
Challenges are listed in no particular order.
Turkey Run State Park – 5 Mile Challenge
The 5 Mile Challenge is a loop that is 5 miles long that takes you all over Turkey Run State Park. On this challenge you will experience climbing rocks, canyons, ladders, and hiking along the river. This is a great challenge to really experience what all Turkey Run State Park has to offer.
Read more about this challenge and the experience we had HERE
Shades State Park – 6 Ravine Challenge
Located only a few miles from Turkey Run State Park is a small, yet less crowded, park called Shades State Park. They offer a challenge called the 6 Ravine Challenge. This challenge is 4.42 miles and takes you through the popular ravines Shades is known for, as well as taking you along the river.
Read more about this challenge and the experience we had HERE
Clifty Falls State Park – 4 Falls Challenge
If you love waterfalls, the four falls challenge is right up your alley. The challenge is to hike about 4 miles on two separate trails. Take the trail 7 loop and then drive to the Tunnel Falls or Hoffman Falls trail head to complete trail 4. Trail 4 is an out and back. Once you reach the end you will have to turn around and follow the trail back or make a loop by taking the road back. During this challenge you will need to visit the designated areas on the map that you grab at the nature center. You will have to take selfies at each of these spots to prove that you completed the hike.
Read more about this challenge and the experience we had HERE
Pokagon State Park – Hell’s Point Challenge
The Hell’s Point Challenge at Pokagon State Park is a lengthy 8.5 miles loop. While this seems like a lot of miles to cover in a single hike. The hike itself is relatively flat and will be completed faster than you think. Here you will experience deep woods and wetlands to observe a vast amount of flowers, birds, and other wildlife.
Read more about this challenge and the experience we had HERE
Indiana Dunes State Park – 3 Dune Challenge
At Indiana Dunes State Park you can get your beach fix while staying in the midwest. Located right off Lake Michigan, the beach gives you that sense that you are at the ocean. While at the dunes they have a challenge called The 3 Dune Challenge. This is a 1.5 mile loop that should not be taken lightly. While the hike seems short, the hike takes you up 3 strenuous dunes to complete this challenge. When you are finished take a dip in Lake Michigan to cool off.
Read more about this challenge and the experience we had HERE
Spring Mill 10 Mile Challenge
Coming Soon…
On any hike always pack enough water and have a spare paper map. Situations can happen quickly and you can never be too prepared.
