Hoosier National Forest Overview
Hoosier National Forest is located in the hills of south central Indiana and is comprised of four separate sections. This area provides the best hiking trails and nature experiences for Indianapolis or Louisville, KY residents. There are 27 different trail systems to choose from with the best hikes in Hoosier National Forest listed below.
State | Indiana |
Nearest Metro Area | Louisville, KY |
Area Size | 202,814 acres |
Established | October 1, 1961 |
Hiking Trails | 266 miles |
HEY YOU, reading this page! Help me, help you – we make a small commission every time an item or piece of gear is purchased after clicking on the links on our GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS pages. If you are in need of some new BOOTS, a new TENT or SLEEPING BAG, TREK POLES, etc. please consider buying after clicking on one of the links on our site! At no additional cost to you, it helps us keep posting more great hiking recommendations for our readers! Happy Hiking!
Click here for more National Park Hikes!
You can also view some of our most popular Gear Recommendations here!
Trailhead Traveler’s Best Recommended Hikes in Hoosier National Forest
(*** = Best hikes in Hoosier National Forest)
Hemlock Cliffs*** – 1.4 mile loop
A box canyon with sandstone rock formations and season waterfalls. The trailhead is a few miles drive off IN 37.
Pate Hollow Trail – 7.7 mile loop
Hike through mixed hardwoods with views of Lake Monroe. The trailhead can be found within the Paynetown State Recreation Area.
Sycamore Loop – 4.7 mile loop
Follows the Sycamore Branch of Salt Creek. The Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower marks a good starting point.
Featured Image: Hoosier National Forest, Photo by AndrewKPepper
Leave a Reply