The Can’t-Miss Indiana Hike for Every Nature Lover’s Bucket List

Indiana is an outrageously beautiful state, and its 24 incredible state parks are all worthy of a day trip (or longer) to explore. With thousands of miles of hiking trails weaving throughout the state, it's tough to go wrong. Take, for instance, one of my favorite state parks in Indiana: Shades State Park. This gorgeous slice of paradise is easily one of the most surreal places in the Hoosier State, and its trails are awe-inspiring.

I'd like to focus on the Shades State Park Backpack and Campground Loop trail for now. This five-mile adventure is nothing short of breathtaking, and I strongly recommend bringing a good camera along - especially if you're here in the summer or fall.

The trail's name is just about as long as it is, and it's rated as moderately difficult, so hikers with little experience might want to wait until they've got more practice under their belts to try it. One can expect some hills, rocks, and tree trunks to climb over, but the rewards one reaps for finishing the hike are enough to give it a shot if you ask me.

The trail starts at Parking Lot 3, just beyond the park's entrance. If you'd like to camp, be prepared - you'll have to hike to the campground, as vehicle traffic is not permitted. That sounds like an adventure to me! You can request firewood upon entry, and it will be delivered to you. Cool - better than having to haul it in!

Other than the beauty of it all, my favorite thing about this hike is the quiet. It's a lesser-known adventure within Shades State Park and 100 percent worth it!

It's open year-round, and visiting during each season is a must to determine your favorite time to explore. I am obsessed with autumn myself, and this hike is absolutely incredible for fall foliage. If you don't want to stay here for a few nights, no worries - you don't have to, obviously - but it will be worth the effort if you're a lover of peace and quiet.

Of our two dozen amazing state parks in Indiana, Shades is one that probably doesn't get the love it deserves. Turkey Run State Park gets all the attention, but Shades really should be visited more - I promise it's absolutely incredible and feels like something out of a fantasy novel planet more than the Midwest.

If you're an avid hiker like me and want to improve your hiking skills, I recommend AllTrails Plus. I don't know what I did before I had it. Need a little more adventure in your life? Check out this amazing three-day road trip to some of the coolest Indiana state parks.