Maybe you are wondering why you haven’t seen this Mammoth Cave that resides in Indiana yet. Truthfully, a Mammoth Cave may not be waiting for you here, but a very intriguing and very short hike to a natural wonder in Indiana is. The Black Rock Nature Preserve features cliffs and a miniature massive cave for you to admire. Did I mention that the trail is short? It is perhaps better described as a 10-minute walk, but plan to find yourself absorbed in this preserve – discovering footpaths and taking in the river views.

The 45-acre Black Rock Nature Preserve is located near Otterbein, in Warren County, and is designed to protect the rare sandstone contained within it.
hike to a natural wonder in Indiana
Debbie Weaver/AllTrails
You will see a very small grassy parking area when you arrive.
The most popular hike here goes down towards the Wabash River.
Debbie Weaver/AllTrails
You’ll make your way down to the river by a rugged, rocky, and somewhat steep trail - but it only takes a few minutes.
Debbie Weaver/AllTrails
A plant found in the preserve called the Selaginella rupestris, or ledge spikemoss, is labeled as S2/imperiled in the state of Indiana, due to its increasing scarcity here.
Marvel at the 100-foot sandstone cliffs - they get their color from manganese and iron oxides found in the rock.
Ursula Berry/AllTrails

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You get quite a view looking down over the river. No other sandstone cliffs like these exist for miles in any direction.
Ursula Berry/AllTrails
Maybe you’d like to try your hand at fishing these waters.
Debbie Weaver/AllTrails
What fun to happen upon a cave on the trail - a spectacular small natural wonder in Indiana, and the belle of the ball.
Debbie Weaver/AllTrails
If you venture inside a cave, this could be your view of the outside world.
Ursula Berry/AllTrails
Seek out other paths to further explore this preserve.

I really enjoy getting outside in Indiana to places such as Turkey Run State Park for hiking, paddling, and camping, and discovering new lesser-known natural wonders. Hike to a natural wonder in Indiana, Black Rock Nature Preserve, and be inspired – right here in the Hoosier State. Watch for the cave, you won’t want to miss this mini in all its natural splendor. For more information, visit the Black Rock Nature Preserve website. For two other hidden natural wonders in Indiana, look up Hanging Rock and Robb Hidden Canyon.

Read our other articles about Indiana for a natural wonders road trip and a mini grand canyon.

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Black Rock Nature Preserve, 11598 E 350 N, Otterbein, IN 47970, USA