Here at OnlyInYourState, we have covered lots of super-cool hiking trails in Indiana that everyone should try at least once. With more than 1,000 awesome hikes to choose from, the Hoosier State is an unsung hero of the hiking scene, providing surreal and beautiful trails for Midwesterners to enjoy since, well, pretty much always. Well, this might be one of the coolest trails we have EVER covered, and that’s saying something. Check out Madison Railroad Trail in Indiana for an incredibly unique hike that you won’t forget any time soon. We know it will head to the top of your bucket list!

The Madison Railroad Walk is nestled within beautiful Madison, Indiana, and features 3.9 miles of breathtaking views in which nature is reclaiming a railroad built long ago.
Dani Clifford/AllTrails
It's a wild, unmaintained piece of Hoosier State history that attracts the bravest, most daring hikers in the state to come try and conquer it. And it's easy to see why!
It's rated as moderately difficult, and some sections can be quite challenging - especially when the area is slick and muddy following rainstorms.
Michael Browers/AllTrails
Falling rocks are another common occurrence on the train track trail, so be sure to stay aware of your surroundings at all times so as not to meet one of those falling rocks the hard way. Be sure to bring water and wear closed-toed, safe shoes - this is one challenging hike that's an absolute blast as long as you plan for its twists and turns. It's definitely worth it!
Check out an overgrown, abandoned bridge, which the rail tracks you follow cross right under.
James Dowler/AllTrails
Many parts of this hike feel like something out of an amazing fairy tale, or perhaps a J.R.R. Tolkien novel. This Madison Railroad trail will make you feel like you're in another world.

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Hikers will love the away-from-it-all, remote feel to the whole trek; during the warmer months, it's astonishingly lush and green, making for one incredible hike.
Curtis Mann/AllTrails
It is, however, open to hikers year-round; check it out during winter for a frozen landscape that feels like something from another planet! We love that the Madison Railroad walk is a must-see year round.
Oh, and sometimes, there's even a little waterfall to enjoy.
Chad Reynolds/AllTrails
Your best bet for seeing the little fall is following a rainstorm (though remember what we said about mud and slippery surfaces) or during snowmelt, when winter transitions to spring and the majority of Indiana's waterfalls are healthier than any other time of the year. We love the views along the way.
Explore canyons, gorges, rock walls with fascinating growths on them and, of course, nearly four miles of abandoned rails being reclaimed by mother earth.
Curtis Mann/AllTrails
The Madison Railroad Trail is a wonderful hike for whomever wants to get out and enjoy the scenery in this area. And it's lovely to do no matter when you find the time to hike it!

Have you ever hiked the Madison Railroad trail? What did you think? What are your favorite offbeat hikes in Indiana to take? Tell us your picks in the comments – join the conversation! We love hearing from you.

After your hike, make sure to fuel up at the Rivercrest Lighthouse Marina restaurant in Indiana, which sits right on the Ohio River.

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Madison Railroad Trail

MEGAN MCDONALD | October 21, 2022

How many hiking trails are in Indiana?

Indiana boasts more than 4,200 miles of hiking trails throughout the states. That’s more than 1,075 trails throughout the state for you to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for easier, walking trails, or challenging hiking trails, Indiana has it all. We love the trails through the national and state parks, especially Indiana Dunes National Park.

What is the longest hiking trail in Indiana?

The longest trail in Indiana is the Knobstone Trail. This epic hike covers 60 miles across the backcountry in Clark State Forest, Elk Creek Public Fishing Area, and Jackson-Washington State Forest. The trail traverses areas like flat-topped ridges, hardwood forests, and even farmland. It’s a hike that showcases some of the most gorgeous lands in the state.

Can you backpack overnight in Indiana?

Absolutely! There are plenty of places you can backpack along the trails in the state of Indiana. Camping on Indiana trails often happens in the backcountry, camping shelters, designated camping sites, or sometimes even a campground. Plan ahead and pack for a little extra adventure!

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