My Top Fall Spots in Indiana
Fall in Indiana doesn’t mess around. It shows up fast, makes a scene, and vanishes before you even realize it. One day, the trees are burning gold and crimson; the next, you’re kicking through a soggy pile of leaves. This isn’t a season that waits for you to make weekend plans—it demands that you drop everything and step outside now. Whether you’re after a smooth scenic drive through a forest on fire with color or a grueling hike that pushes your limits, these three places deliver precisely what fall is supposed to: awe, solitude, and that indescribable feeling of being in nature.
Brown County State Park: Where Fall Throws a Party
Brown County isn’t just a pretty landscape; it’s a full-blown autumn festival. The park’s hills explode in reds, oranges, and yellows as if someone cranked the saturation all the way up. It feels more like you’ve wandered into a fever dream painted by Van Gogh than a state park. But here’s the thing—everyone knows this. Expect crowds, and don’t be surprised when the forest feels more like a reunion of pumpkin-spice enthusiasts. But somehow, it works. The noise, the energy—it all becomes part of the experience.
Ogle Lake
Best Fall Hikes
Brown County State Park is Indiana’s ultimate fall showstopper. Its 16,000 acres are blanketed in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, creating some of the most scenic fall views in the Midwest. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just want a relaxing drive through the park, Brown County makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
For sweeping vistas, start at Hesitation Point, where the view stretches endlessly across the rolling hills. Want to get closer to the colors? Trail 8 is a hiker’s dream, winding through forests aglow with autumn’s brightest hues.
Scenic drive through Brown County
What to Expect
The scenic drive offers jaw-dropping views without much effort, making it ideal for families, beginners, or anyone who prefers a leisurely pace. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting deer and migratory birds throughout the park. The Nature Center is an excellent family stop, with interactive exhibits and trails that make learning about the environment fun.
Must-See Spots
Ogle Lake at sunrise: Watch the lake mirror the golden colors of the trees as the first light hits the water.
West Lookout Tower: Climb the tower for panoramic views that show off fall’s full spectrum of color.
Pro Tips for Leaf-Peepers and Families
Best Time to Go: Mid to late October for peak colors.
What to Bring: Dress in layers, as the mornings can be chilly, but afternoons warm up fast. Don’t forget your camera—Ogle Lake and Hesitation Point are must-see spots for photos.
Family-Friendly Activities: Take the Discovery Trail near the Nature Center for an easy, educational hike perfect for kids.
Accommodation and Amenities
Lodging Options: The Abe Martin Lodge offers a cozy, rustic stay, or you can camp at one of the park’s many sites. Both options allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall fully.
Dining Facilities: Pack a picnic or visit Big Woods Pizza in nearby Nashville for a delicious, hearty meal.
Accessibility: Brown County offers a variety of trails for all fitness levels, so whether you’re up for a challenging hike or prefer scenic drives, there’s something for everyone.
West Lookout
Nearby Attractions
Nashville is a must-visit, with its charming shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Support small businesses by grabbing a bite at a local restaurant or picking up a handmade craft—these communities thrive on visitor support, especially during the quieter fall season.
Charles C. Deam Wilderness: Your Private Autumn Escape
Hickory Ridge Fire Tower
If Brown County is the rowdy extrovert, The Charles C. Deam Wilderness is the old soul who likes to disappear for days without telling anyone. It stretches for 13,000 acres across southern Indiana, wrapping you in ancient silence. The place feels like it’s existed forever—and probably will long after we’re all gone. When fall comes, the forest slows down even more, as if taking a deep breath before winter settles in.
The Hickory Ridge Fire Tower is the highlight, where a short climb gives you a 360-degree view of rolling hills bathed in autumn’s golden glow. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the Sycamore Loop offers a serene hike through forests painted in rich oranges and reds.
What to Expect
Deam Wilderness is a wildlife paradise. Expect to see deer wandering through the trees, hear the call of hawks soaring overhead, and maybe even spot a wild turkey. The trails are remote and offer a true backcountry experience, perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
Must-See Spots
Hickory Ridge Fire Tower: Get up early to catch the sunrise from the tower—it’s a sight you won’t forget.
Lake Monroe’s Peninsula Trail: A peaceful lakeside hike that captures fall colors reflected in the water.
Puffball Mushrooms found on the trail
Pro Tips for the Wilderness Explorer
Best Time to Go: Late October when the colors peak.
What to Bring: A map (no cell service here!), plenty of water, and sturdy boots for navigating the wilderness.
Family-Friendly Activities: While the wilderness is best for older kids and seasoned hikers, the nearby Lake Monroe offers canoeing, fishing, and birdwatching for families looking for a more relaxed adventure.
Accommodation and Amenities
View from Hickory Ridge Fire Tower
Lodging Options: Primitive camping is the best way to experience Deam Wilderness, but Bloomington has plenty of inns and hotels nearby for those who prefer comfort.
Dining Facilities: Pack your meals or grab a post-hike bite in Bloomington, where farm-to-table restaurants like The Owlery offer delicious options.
Accessibility: While Deam Wilderness is rugged and suited to more experienced hikers, nearby Lake Monroe offers trails and activities for all ages and abilities.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your wilderness escape with a trip to Bloomington, where you can explore art galleries, local shops, and the vibrant food scene. Supporting these small businesses helps sustain the local economy, especially in the off-peak season.
McCormick’s Creek State Park: Resilience and Autumn Glory
In March 2023, McCormick’s Creek State Park was hit by an EF-3 tornado that devastated 282 acres of its landscape. The tornado uprooted thousands of trees and destroyed much of the campground in 30-40 seconds, leaving a 400-yard-wide path of destruction. However, McCormick's Creek is bouncing back thanks to the community's hard work, volunteers, and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Waterfall at McCormick’s Creek
What to Expect
Despite the damage, McCormick’s Creek remains a beautiful place to visit, especially in the fall. The Falls Canyon Trail is open, allowing visitors to see the iconic waterfall framed by vibrant autumn colors. Over 7 miles of trails have been cleared, and the park is continuing to restore and rebuild.
Community Resilience
The park’s recovery has been a true testament to the resilience of nature and the community. Volunteers from Team Rubicon have worked tirelessly to reopen trails and clear debris, proving that McCormick's Creek's beauty endures even in the face of destruction.
Must-See Spots
Falls Canyon Trail: Experience the waterfall's beauty amidst the season's changing colors.
Canyon Inn: Fully operational, this cozy spot offers a perfect place to rest and reflect after exploring the trails.
Pro Tips for Visiting McCormick’s Creek
Best Time to Go: Early October for peak colors, but check the park’s website for updates on trail openings.
What to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, a camera, and a spirit of adventure.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Nature Center offers educational programs for kids, and the partially reopened Wolf Cave Trail is perfect for family exploration.
Accommodation and Amenities
Lodging Options: The Canyon Inn and family cabins are open and ready for visitors—book early, as these accommodations fill up quickly in the fall.
Dining Facilities: Enjoy a meal at the Inn’s restaurant or bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the park’s many open shelters.
Accessibility: McCormick’s Creek offers a mix of easy and challenging trails, making it accessible to people of all fitness levels.
Fall Essentials for Your Indiana Adventure
Layers: Mornings can be chilly, but afternoons warm up.
Camera: You’ll want to capture those vibrant fall colors.
Sturdy Hiking Boots: Essential for navigating rocky or uneven terrain.
Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated on those longer hikes.
Map: Cell service can be spotty, especially in remote areas.
Binoculars: Perfect for spotting wildlife and taking in distant views.
A Final Note
Fall is fleeting, just like the landscapes we cherish. But as nature changes, so do we—adapting, growing, and finding beauty in unexpected places. Whether you're hiking up to a fire tower, watching waterfalls cascade through a canyon, or witnessing nature’s resilience at McCormick's Creek, these parks remind us that adventure is always just around the corner.
Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and embrace the magic of Indiana's most colorful season. Fall waits for no one, so don’t miss your chance to experience it at its best!
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Before you pack your gear and head out, here’s a quick reminder: let's keep these places as incredible as they are now. Follow "Leave No Trace" principles—pack out what you pack in, respect wildlife, and stay on designated trails. Safety first: wear appropriate gear, watch the weather, and tell someone your plans.
See you out there—don't forget to wave when you pass me on the trail.
