Published: August 22, 2009 08:36 pm      

Off the beaten path

One-tank trip takes in some of state’s most beautiful trails

Cliffs and canyons, ridges and ravines, whirlpools and waterfalls. These might not seem like features of Indiana, but they are just a few of the geological marvels found at Turkey Run and Shades state parks.

Located near Crawfordsville, the parks have long been popular destinations for Indiana residents seeking adventure a little closer to home.

Whether it is hiking, canoeing, horseback riding or just grilling out with family and friends, the parks offer the amenities to satisfy an afternoon visit or a weekend stay.

There are many legends about where Turkey Run gets its name. Some say that turkeys would huddle in the canyons, or “runs,” to stay warm during the cold winter months. Others believe that hunters would herd the turkeys into the funnels for an easy harvest.

Whatever the truth, the park’s extensive trail network enables visitors to explore the distinctive runs that make the area famous. Sightseers are left awestruck by the breathtaking landscape and geological formations carved by millions of years of erosion. Hard-working streams still meander through the park, and most visitors are left with damp feet as they try to avoid stepping in the cool water (athletic sandals or aqua shoes are highly recommended for Trail 3).

The trails close to the campsites are often busy during peak summer times, as revelers cross a wobbly suspension bridge to view some of the park’s most aesthetically pleasing sites including the Wedge Rock, Punch Bowl and Rocky Hollow. If visitors walk farther, though, the crowds thin out and the densely-wooded area becomes a peaceful escape with occasional benches offering a chance to eat a carefully packed sandwich.

Visitors should, however, be prepared to build up a sweat before eating their lunch. Steep staircases and ladders dot the well-marked trails and add a precarious yet pleasing element to an afternoon hike.

For those looking for a more secluded getaway, nearby Shades State Park, located slightly northeast of Turkey Run, contains 15 miles of similar challenging and not so rugged trails. The unique rock formations again demonstrate the wonders of erosion, including the Devil’s Punch Bowl and several extraordinarily narrow ravines. Other highlights of Trail 1 are the stunning 30-foot Silver Cascade Falls, which is shaped like a water slide due to the freeze-thaw process, as well as several scenic overlooks of Sugar Creek.

Elsewhere in the park there are picnic areas, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and opportunities to fish on the creek, although swimming is not allowed.

For a less well-known spot, the Pine Hills Nature Preserve, located west of Shades on Ind. 234 off U.S. 41, takes visitors along the banks of Indian Creek. Visitors will be truly amazed by the wonders hidden in this isolated preserve and the incredible ecosystem created by the small stream.

For those who are willing to skip over some stepping stones, the Devil’s Backbone is well worth a look. The sharp rock ridge, about 100 feet high and just 7 feet wide at its narrowest point, was also created by the forces of erosion. The rock displays numerous inscriptions, including a chiseling of the Devil’s face and Civil War-era graffiti. The loop trails surrounding Devil’s Backbone also take travelers over and past Turkey Backbone, the Slide, Mill Cut and Turkey backbones and Honeycomb Rock.

Experts believe this tall sandstone wall included pockets of sea algae that eroded more quickly than the rock face, leaving an impressive honeycomb effect.

Visitors to the parks and preserve will certainly be shocked and amazed by the beautiful features right here in Indiana. Although the trails are challenging at times, the views are more than worth the effort.

One last thing before you pack up and head out: Don’t forget the bug spray.

Memories of Turkey Run, Shades State Park and the Pine Hills Nature Preserve are likely to last a lifetime, but thankfully the mosquito bites will only hang around for a few days.



Turkey Run State Park

Directions: From Crawfordsville take Ind. 47. The road runs right past the park entrance.

Admission: $4 per car for Indiana residents Monday thru Thursday; $5 Friday through Sunday; $7 for non residents.

Open: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

For more information call (765) 597-2635 or visit www.turkeyrunstatepark.com



Shades State Park

Directions: From Crawfordsville take Ind. 47 until Ind. 234, follow and take 890W to the park.

Admission: $4 per car for Indiana residents Monday thru Thursday; $5 Friday through Sunday $7 for non residents.

Open: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

For more information call (765) 435-2810 or visit www.stateparks.com/shades.html



Pine Hills Nature Preserve

Directions: From Crawfordsville take Ind. 47 until Ind. 234, follow until a parking lot on left side of the road. Entrance to the trail is on the otherside of the road.

Admission: Free

Open: Dawn to dusk

For more information visit www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/indiana/misc/art22888.html