Indiana Has a State Park With Covered Bridges, a Massive Waterfall, and a 1,400-Acre Lake

When I think of Vermont, three things come to mind: covered bridges, waterfalls, and lakes. Of course, this sounds like a dreamy landscape to explore. The only problem? It’s over 1,000 miles from my Midwestern home. Moreover, some Vermont towns have become so overrun with online influencers, it can be difficult to actually enjoy the picture-perfect scenery, especially in fall. Luckily, we can find a Vermont substitute a little closer to us in Indiana. If you’re like me and dreaming of all that the Green Mountain State has to offer but can’t make it to New England, consider visiting Indiana’s Lieber State Recreation Area, which boasts picturesque scenery that’s a perfect match for Vermont. 

Located in west-central Indiana, Lieber State Recreation Area spans 8,000 acres and features notable sites such as Cataract Falls, Cagles Mill Lake, Mill Creek, a covered bridge, and scenic forests. The Cataract Falls State Recreation Area is a sub-section of the larger park, and it draws the most visitors for the eponymous waterfalls.

First, let’s talk about the covered bridges. Vermont notably has the most covered bridges per square mile in the nation, with more than 100 located in the diminutive state. Why are we so fascinated with these relics of the past? First, they give us a focal point for a scenic landscape. Our eyes are drawn to these man-made creations resting amid the natural beauty, and this is especially true when the covered bridge is as picturesque as this one is. Plus, our minds are transported to supposedly simpler times when horse-drawn carriages crossed the creaky wooden expanse and couples used the privacy to sneak a kiss.

Like many of those found in Vermont, the Cataract Falls Covered Bridge in Lieber State Recreation Area evokes this history and draws attention. It is painted barn red, providing a bright contrast to the verdant green landscape. Can you get more iconic than that? With its weathered timbers and elegant stone footings, it is easy to see why this covered bridge was once the nation’s most photographed. Built in 1876, it is no longer open to automotive traffic. Instead, it now serves as a shady spot where you enjoy lunch at one of the picnic tables placed underneath its enormous roof.

Now, let’s look at the waterfalls. In Vermont, waterfalls may be even more plentiful than covered bridges, as the shoulders of the Green Mountains create a rugged terrain known for its scenic cascades. At Lieber State Recreation Area, you’ll find the breathtaking wonder of Cataract Falls. While this isn’t the state’s tallest waterfall by any means, it is the largest by volume. As with Niagara Falls, height isn’t everything. The powerful roar of Mill Creek tumbles over a 45-foot drop at the Upper Cataract Falls and a 30-foot drop at Lower Cataract Falls, with each spanning as much as 200 feet. The rocky limestone ledges are particularly scenic.

While cascading water is, of course, a natural attraction, still waters can be just as enamoring. At the center of Lieber State Recreation Area, you’ll find Cagles Mill Lake, a hidden gem covering 1,400 acres. Surrounded by green hills, these clear waters seem like something straight out of Vermont, which has hundreds of lakes. In addition to its natural beauty, it offers recreational opportunities, with swimming, fishing, boating, and paddling being popular activities. 

As you can see, you don’t have to travel a thousands mile to Vermont to find natural landscapes and charming relics of the past. Lieber State Recreation Area offers year-round recreation and gorgeous scenery that you’ll have to see for yourself to appreciate. While online influencers may put pressure on Vermont's most popular spots, remember that you can find similar beauty and snap your shots without all of the crowds in Indiana. Keep the Green Mountain State on your bucket list, and let Indiana whisk you away with this Vermont dupe.