Ask anyone who’s never been to Indiana what they think it’s like, and chances are they’ll mention something about “flyover” states and how there’s “nothing to do” here. Well, if you live here – or if you’ve simply been reading Only in Your State for a while – you know better. In fact, Indiana is an amazing state filled with natural wonders, and hiking in Indiana is second to none. And good news: the options are beyond plentiful and we have some of the best hikes in Indiana to get you started.

With 24 incredible state and National parks and 1,086 trails (seriously!) peppered throughout, the Hoosier State is pure perfection for lovers of the outdoors. What better way to explore than on foot via some of the best hiking trails in Indiana? Every time of year is a wonderful time of year for hiking – come out to Indiana and see just how!

Best Hikes in Indiana

Sometimes you want to go out and get your hike on without taking all day, night, or longer. Sometimes, we’re just not up for backpacking or journeying, and it’s in these cases that a short and easy Indiana hike is probably in order. You certainly don’t need to go out of your way to hike long, strenuous trails with little (or significantly delayed) reward. These short, sweet, and simple hikes in Indiana are the perfect way to indulge in the outdoors without taking all day.

No matter what you’re hoping to find in the great outdoors, you’re sure to find it in Indiana. From incredible waterfall hikes to astonishing views, amazing history, and so much more, hiking in the Hoosier State really is something special and unique. There are trails accessible to just about everyone, trails on the more challenging side reserved only for the most experienced, short trails, long trails, and everything in between. What follows is a long list of some of the best hikes in Indiana, spanning across all skill levels, and lengths, and with various highlights and delights. These trails are Indiana at its best, and you’re sure to find something that’s exactly what you’ve been looking for.

1. Cowles Bog Trail

Did you know there’s a wetland in Indiana? This incredible hike at Cowles Bog is one of the most awesome illustrations of the diverse landscape that is Indiana. Along the way, you’ll meander across some of the state’s most awe-inspiring dunes, and you’ll get to see an incredibly rare ecosystem: Cowles Bog, which is literally home to carnivorous plants and other interesting natural goodies. Come see why Cowles Bog Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Indiana. This is one awesome adventure hiking trail you’re not soon to forget! The plant diversity alone is utterly incredible.

2. West Beach - Dune Succession Trail

• Location: Morgan Monroe State Forest
• Mileage: 10.6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: This trek takes an average of four hours and 15 minutes to do, and it’s open year-round. Dogs are always welcome on a leash! Do note that only two of the lakes are visible. The third lake at the southern end of the loop, Bean Blossom Lake, was drained when the levee failed in 1993, so it hasn’t been there for a while. When you go around the middle lake, there is little or no signage to get you back on the path, so stay alert and know your surroundings. Oh, and definitely bring bug spray! li>

• Location: Indiana Dunes National Park
• Mileage: 1.0 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: This awesome boardwalk hike leads to amazing views! The best times to visit are from April through October, but it’s open all year. The trek highlights all four stages of dune development within its one-mile length. Though it’s rated easy, it does include a climb of 250 stairs for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline (on the clearer days). Bring water. The parking lots, trails, and beach are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Indiana Dunes National Park costs $15 to $20 for a standard entrance pass. As mentioned above, you can save money on more than one visit by simply getting a $45 Annual Entrance Pass.