Explore This Lesser-Known Area of Hoosier National Forest on This Hidden Gem Trail

When you travel off the beaten path, chances are, you’ll find your way to a hidden gem. That’s especially true when you’re inside the 204,000-acre Hoosier National Forest. With over 250 miles of trails, multiple waterfalls, rolling hills, old-growth forests, and access to Monroe Lake, it’s no wonder this natural playground attracts nearly 300,000 yearly visitors. And rightfully so, since there are tons of treasures here. One of our favorites is tucked along the Patton Cave Loop via Grubb Ridge Trail. This lesser-known hike near Bloomington is the kind of spot where outdoor adventurers can truly connect with nature. If you’re ready for your next adventure, grab your hiking gear and join us on this hidden gem trail inside Hoosier National Forest. 

Sure, you can hike the Hemlock Cliffs National Scenic Trail to witness the beautiful waterfalls. And yes, the cascades are worth seeing, but what if I told you there’s a mysterious cave inside the forest waiting for you to explore? This wild cave is not like the commercial caves in Indiana. Patton Cave is an incredible ecosystem with undiscovered wonders inside. 

So, where exactly is this cave? Well, you’ll need to hike the Patton Cave Loop via Grubb Ridge Trail to get to it. The eight-mile loop is located at the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area of the forest. Full disclosure: this terrain is rugged and not well-maintained, so be prepared for a challenge. To avoid any mishaps, it’s a good idea to download AllTrails+ to have complete updates about the trail conditions. The good news is there won’t be a dull moment as you trek. The better news? You might be the only hiker on this adventure.

The trailhead begins at the parking lot of Blackwell Horse Camp in Heltonville, about 70 miles south of Indianapolis. From there, you’ll make your way through dense tree canopies, scramble over large boulders, maneuver across downed trees, hike past overgrown bushes, and you’ll also have several creek crossings. The creeks are great stopping points to rest and listen to the soothing sounds of the forest.  

If you visit after a good rain, there will be muddy sections. Expect the streams to swell, and the water gushing over the rocky creek bed will create mini cascades. Make sure to watch your step when hopping across the slippery rocks. Of course, if you’re prepared with the proper hiking boots, you should be just fine. Trekking poles might come in handy since there are steep areas along the route. 

Your reward? A one-of-a-kind spelunking adventure inside a natural cave. Unlike many other caves in Indiana, there are no tour guides here. From the large opening, you can enter Patton Cave and explore it for yourself. As you descend into the subterranean space, be sure to have your headlamp or flashlight ready for easy navigation. 

Keep your eyes open for the reptiles and critters that call this ecosystem home. Also, if you look closely at the rocks, you will see fossilized corals left behind many years ago. The rocky bed inside the cave might be wet and slippery, so be careful as you step. To make this a truly unique experience, you can try to crawl through the cave to the exit on the other side of the ridge. However, if you’re new to caving, I would skip this part of the adventure.  

Other highlights of the trail include Monroe Lake, which is the largest reservoir within the borders of the Hoosier State. After you’re done exploring the cave, take the side trail to the shores of the pretty oasis. Reward yourself with a leisure stroll along the water’s edge. Since the lake is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and backcountry camping, it’s unlikely you’ll have it to yourself. But have no worries, you can still find secluded sections on this quiet trail in the forest. 

The best time to visit is from February to July, and you should carve out three to four hours to complete the hike. If you want to explore more of the cave or spend time on the lake, camping wouldn’t be a bad idea. Who knows… the next day, you might even discover more treasures on this hidden gem trail inside Hoosier National Forest. 

Are you ready to explore this lesser-known destination in Indiana? Visit the Charles C. Deam Wilderness website to find out more about the area. 

Don’t miss your chance to check out Bloomington. It’s the perfect Midwestern destination with tons of things to do and see. Grab a juicy burger from BuffaLouie's and you can thank me later.