The Ed Dailey Nature Trail Is One of Indiana’s Most Scenic Waterfall Hikes

The Cataract Falls State Recreation Area is an amazing place that just about every Hoosier has heard of; it's one of our most beautiful parks, if you ask me, and the famous Cataract Falls is always a treat to behold. There's a hiking trail that, somehow, we've never mentioned before — and it leads straight to the cascade. This waterfall hike in Indiana is known as the Ed Dailey Nature Trail, and it's an easygoing trek to one of our state's most beautiful natural wonders.

Why the Ed Dailey Nature Trail Is Worth the Hike

By now, almost everyone in the state of Indiana has probably heard about Cataract Falls — one of our most impressive natural features. I don't blame them. The falls themselves are certainly gorgeous, but the hike to reach Cataract Falls is so often overlooked that I've decided to highlight it.

What To Expect Along the Ed Dailey Nature Trail

The Ed Dailey Nature Trail is a nice and easy 1.6-mile trek through the woods leading to an amazing place to view the waterfalls. This loop trail is where you'll encounter tall, old-growth trees, plentiful wildflowers, tons of wildlife, and so much more.

The trail is easy to follow, and if you don't stop (why, though?), it should take less than 45 minutes to complete. I prefer to stop and smell the roses — or in this case, stop and admire the landscape. The beautiful covered bridge you'll discover along the way is perfect for taking a moment of pause. Just breathe deep ... and take it all in. These types of scenic hikes in Indiana are best appreciated when you're staying present, and stopping for a moment to admire the little things is what it's all about.

The entire area is jaw-dropping, and if you show up in the spring, the falls are sure to be roaring (just look for mud).

There are numerous points along the trail where you will be blown away by the beauty of the area. And once you reach the falls, you'll be able to truly take in the awe that is the beautiful state of Indiana.

We just don't seem to get much credit, and that bums me out. Indiana is an astonishingly beautiful, underrated state with so much to offer — our utterly incredible wilderness is absolutely worthy of a vacation, hiking trip, day trip, or anything else you can manage. Personally, I'd like to see it turned into a state park ... but we shall see. 'Til then, we simply enjoy it.

What To Know Before Visiting Cataract Falls State Recreation Area

There are two parking areas at Cataract Falls State Recreation Area, one by the Lower Falls and another by the Upper Falls. There are pit toilets and shelters at both. While it may be tempting, remember, swimming is not allowed here! Don’t worry; there are plenty of easy-access waterfall hikes in Indiana that you can take a dip in.

As you're enjoying your hike down the Ed Dailey Nature Trail, you're sure to notice the covered bridge.
The Cataract Falls Covered Bridge is the only surviving covered bridge in Owen County. Most of Indiana’s covered bridges feature Burr Arch trusses, yet this one, designed by Robert W. Smith, uses his patented Smith truss and is one of only six Smith trusses in the state. Fun fact: it was actually designed off-site and brought over and assembled on location!

The Best Time To Visit Cataract Falls

One of the best reasons to check out the Ed Dailey Nature Trail is that every season brings out a different beauty. Spring and summer breathe new life into the landscape with wildflowers, wildlife, and vibrant shades of green everywhere you look. The waterfalls look stunning, surrounded by fall foliage. Even in winter, seeing the falls frozen over is an otherworldly sight that reveals a quiet beauty most overlook. There's truly never a bad time to visit the Cataract Falls State Recreation Area.

Do you have any favorite low-key hiking trails in Indiana that you enjoy? Check out our previous article, where we highlight some of the best beginner waterfall hikes in Indiana that are sure to turn you into an avid hiker in no time.