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    McCloud Nature Park

    4.7 (10 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 am - 9:30 pm

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    View from historic bridge of creek below
    Paul R.

    McCloud Nature park was offering their annual maple syrup days festival on site. There are quite a few stations where you can learn about harvesting and processing maple syrup. I know they also offer a pancake breakfast but you need to get a ticket well in advance. There are plenty of trails to walk on around the park as well. We hiked a short 2 mile trail which was very nice as the weather is just now warming up from spring. There is a nature center as well as numerous programs you can sign up for led by staff. There is also a bird viewing room in the main house as well. Definitely a great stop particularly in March when the run the Maple Syrup days.

    Ken N.

    I really enjoyed hiking around this nature park in northwest Hendricks county. I am looking forward to a return trip once the spring flowers and buds add a bit of greenery to the place as well. Since my visit was during the first days of spring, my first impression was of a vast and seemingly empty prairie with a winding gravel road that worked its way around to the nature center in the middle of the park. But having seen pictures of what the prairie can turn into, I will definitely be back. But because the prairie didn't offer much visual appeal doesn't mean that I was missing out. This park has multiple habitats including a creek, forest, and pond life. Inside the nature center, the park attendant was very helpful explaining about the history and amenities that the park has. There is even a viewing area for bird watching where multiple feeders were attracting a number of songbirds. I highly recommend picking up a park brochure which shows an easy to read map of the trails and how long each trail is so that I was able to plan a route. I began hiking along the Big Walnut Crossing trail which includes a rejuvenated trestle bridge as part of the span crossing the Big Walnut Creek which passes through the park. Note that this bridge is the only way to get from one side of the park to the other. At the end of this trail, the path began to gain elevation as I got farther from the creek's edge. There are two trails that run somewhat parallel through a field/prairie for about a quarter mile that leads to another half mile loop called Woodland Way. Here you will walk along a prairie path that is surrounded by hardwood trees. I also noticed a shell of some old farm equipment left from when the park was a family farm. There was even a pair of trees on the north side that started with separate trunks but had intertwined and grown together farther up their trunks. On the south side of the Woodland path is a descending path that wanders through the lowlands near the creek. Be aware that the slope on this trail (Whitetail Ravine) is steep and may be quite challenging. Fortunately, it was dry on my visit so the gravel on the descent was holding and I was able to quickly make it down. (Not so quickly on the way back up though!) Although I didn't see any deer on my trip around the loop, I could see how it would be a shady space for deer to hang out. On my return toward the bridge, I stopped at one of the bird watching mini trails to watch eagles soaring over the creek. There are also places where woodpeckers and cardinals like to hang out. Although I covered nearly 2.5 miles on my trek, there were still several other trails that I didn't cover on the south and east end of the park. I think I will save those for when the foliage is in full color. With 232 acres, there is always something to see and more areas to wander through. Review #729

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    13 years ago

    This is an absolutely gorgeous park with plenty of unique trails for all ages and experience.

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    Review Highlights - McCloud Nature Park

    Hours for the nature center: November through March: Friday & Saturday only, 10am-4pm (closed noon to 1pm).

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    Pleasant Acres Nature Park - crocus were blooming in March

    Pleasant Acres Nature Park

    4.0(2 reviews)
    7.3 mi

    It is an awesome lil trail for a quick nature reset. Even though it isn't more than a mile long it…read moreis Beautiful!

    Located right near the Hendricks and Boone Count Line on US 136, I was pleasantly surprised at the…read moreaccessibility of this nature park. The trails are limited to hikers and are paved with blacktop. The park offers a perimeter hike or a diagonal path along the sides of the creek that flows towards the Big Walnut Creek to the east. For visitors who like to know what they are looking at, the park has numerous stands with information as well as location indicators on the park maps. There are also labels for types of trees that blend well with the surrounding scenery. I also noticed some small stands with words of positivity like Kindness, Faith, Peace. I don't know the story behind those but they are low to the ground so as to not interfere with those hikers who simply want to see nature. My only knock on the park is that due to erosion along the creek, there were a lot of trees falling over into the creek. The branches were clogging the flow of water, trapping debris and leaves so that some areas of the creek were stagnating. A bit of maintenance to clean up the clogs and maybe some assistance on reducing the erosion would preserve some of the trees fighting to hang on. The park is just over 20 years old and could use a good cleaning to restore its condition. There is a lone shelter outside the wooded part of the park near the parking lot which looked to be in pretty good shape. Review #730

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    Pleasant Acres Nature Park - Small stands with labels help visitors identify tree types

    Small stands with labels help visitors identify tree types

    Pleasant Acres Nature Park - A gazebo is located on the southwest part of the park.  It needs some cleaning up, but seemed in good shape

    A gazebo is located on the southwest part of the park. It needs some cleaning up, but seemed in good shape

    Pleasant Acres Nature Park - The paths were mainly level and very accessible for hikers

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    The paths were mainly level and very accessible for hikers

    Portland Arch Nature Preserve

    Portland Arch Nature Preserve

    4.6(8 reviews)
    43.8 mi

    Unless you are a skilled hiker, I recommend going to this beautiful nature preserve when the…read moreweather has been dry. There is about 90 feet of elevation change on the 0.8 mile loop that can be a bit slippery if you pick a time when mud/rain can be a problem. I only explored the north end trail during my visit. After parking in a shaded lot, I went into the park where I had a choice of left or right. The right side has a steeper descent than the left. Fortunately, there is a hand rail for stability. I figured it easier to go down the steep side than up, so I stayed on the right hand path. There is a fairly level area before you reach the "stairs". The stairs are mostly natural, so they aren't evenly spaced. Just keep focused and you should be alright. Once the trail reaches the bottom of the gorge, there are places where elevated paths keep your feet from trekking through the mud. Depending upon how much rain has fallen, you may get some mud, but my feet stayed dry the entire loop. At the base, there are deep ravines where the trees catch the sunlight and light up in brilliant yellow greens. The rocks are layered and take on a rusty color that can make for some great photos. The highlight of the loop is finding the "arch" through the ridge of rock. It was just a bit taller than my head (I would say most folks won't need to duck going through.) After that, you will start working your way back. Although I traveled the same distance up, it was gradual and not nearly as challenging as climbing steps. I didn't see much wildlife there, but there were squirrels and butterflies that showed themselves. I like a short hike that features a destination and great scenes along the way. If you like that too, then seek out this park. Review #2840

    Great trail among beautiful landforms. It's a nice hike that makes for a good day trip along with…read moreWilliamsport Falls, Attica, and the courthouse murals on Covington.

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    Portland Arch Nature Preserve - Portland Arch trail

    Portland Arch trail

    Portland Arch Nature Preserve - Halfway down the ravine - rugged

    Halfway down the ravine - rugged

    Portland Arch Nature Preserve - Portland Arch trail

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    Portland Arch trail

    Cataract Falls State Recreation Area

    Cataract Falls State Recreation Area

    4.4(47 reviews)
    28.1 mi

    What a wonderful place to get out of the city and just slow down! My honey took me here 4/26/26…read moresince we've had some nice weather lately. Pleasantly surprised they have many picnic tables, the cover bridge to see and of course the Falls. Just be careful when walking to the lower fall as you are pretty close to the ledge of the falls. Plenty to enjoy here. Next time we shall have a nice picnic and enjoy the scenery. You can swim too.Parking is easy but i'm sure it gets crowded in the summer time!

    Cataract Falls is a geological wonder worth visiting and only an hour west of Indianapolis. These…read moremagnificent Falls were created over millions of years as ice and water carved into the ancient limestone resulting in Mill Creek and two sets of falls. The Upper Falls drops 20 feet and can be viewed near the entrance to the park at several overlooks. We visited this week on a bright summer day. The waters were loud and rapid after recent rains. This is one of Indiana's most beautiful sites. There is a large parking lot near the Upper Falls along with picnic tables, grill, pavilion and small playground. We brought a picnic lunch so we could enjoy the Falls. There are pit bathrooms near the playground in a second parking lot. The Lower Falls are a short drive through the park. A nearby lot provides plenty of parking. The short path to view the falls is not paved, but an easy walk. These falls drop 18 feet with incredible views of the layered limestone exposed west of the falls. I was envious of a lone kayaker below the falls. There are marked trails through dense woods descending near the creek. You'll want to wear good hiking shoes and bug spray if you are up for the adventure. The property was donated by Agnes Stuckey in memory of her mother, Agnes Steiner. The Park is maintained by the Indiana DNR. There was no admission during our midweek visit.

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    Cataract Falls State Recreation Area
    Cataract Falls State Recreation Area - Inside the bridge

    Inside the bridge

    Cataract Falls State Recreation Area - Info

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    Info

    Wabash Heritage Trail - Zoey enjoying exploring and sniffing

    Wabash Heritage Trail

    3.9(7 reviews)
    44.3 mi

    The best trail for running in the West Lafayette/Lafayette area. On the southernmost point, you can…read morepark at Fort Ouiatenon, take the sidewalk 3/4s of a mile to the trailhead then follow the dirt path along the Wabash River up to the pedestrian bridge, where you can cross over to the Lafayette side or continue up a bit more on paved surface toward a small park, restaurants and the edge of Purdue's campus. If you head over to the Lafayette side, the trail continues on paved surface for a while before returning to a dirt surface and concludes at the Tippecanoe Battlefield Park in Battle Ground, roughly 13 miles from Fort O. The trail is mostly flat and runnable from start to finish. After heavy rains, the river regularly floods the southern part of the trail.

    The Wabash Heritage Trail is 13 miles long making it a perfect training ground for a mini marathon…read more However, today we were exploring nature with our granddaughter. We started on the north end at Battleground Memorial. At the head of the trail is a sweet little nature center (Wah-ba-shik-a Nature Center) filled with descriptions of wildlife and fauna that are native to the area. My granddaughter was delighted to see the big white owl that greeted us at the door. The volunteer at the Center was welcoming and admission was free. They had maps for the trail that you can take. There are also special programs offered throughout the year. The trail starts and Battleground and extends all the way to Fort Ouiatenon. We only toured a couple miles along a creek that eventually meets the Wabash River. The trail is mulch covered and easy to navigate by foot. It would be difficult to maneuver a stroller or wheelchair onto the trail. The trail is lined with very large sycamores, oaks, walnuts and other trees native to the area. Some of the trees were at least 300 years older. The creek is clear and suitable for a little stomping. There are occasional benches along the trail as well as informational markers. There were also picnic tables and a water fountain at the trail head. We did not see any restroom facilities, but there were probably some in the Battle Ground Museum. The hike is quiet during the week. You can enjoy the sounds of birds and squirrels. I can imagine how beautiful the trail is when the leaves are changing color. There is some highway traffic noise as you get closer to the highway. The trail does not loop, so you have to backtrack to return to your car. There was plenty of parking at the Memorial. The map indicated that there were about five parking lots along the trail. We enjoyed the hike and will return to do a different section soon. I highly recommend.

    Photos
    Wabash Heritage Trail
    Wabash Heritage Trail - The Snowy owl at the nature center.

    The Snowy owl at the nature center.

    Wabash Heritage Trail - The creek along the head of the trail.

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    The creek along the head of the trail.

    Falls Creek Gorge - the path is narrow, only one person wide

    Falls Creek Gorge

    4.0(2 reviews)
    48.7 mi

    The Falls Creek Gorge is one of those places that if you go at the right time and/or have the right…read moreclothing/gear, you get a nice experience. Maybe even some great photos, too! The entire trek from parking lot to the potholes, then the mini waterfall, and then back the way you came to your car, is less than a mile. So, if you pack your car accordingly with a change of shoes or water shoes, you may not mind getting your feet wet if the water level is higher than when I went. Know that once you climb down a short stairway, you will most likely have to cross a slightly sloped rock area where water flows over it. I wasn't worried about getting my shoes wet (it was only about 1/4 inch deep) but because of the possibility of slipping and taking a hard fall onto the rock and sliding into the creek. The creek wasn't deep either, but rock is a lot harder than my bones, so I was careful as I crossed the area to the stairs that lead sharply up to the rest of the trail. I was fortunate that the water level was low and easily crossed to a spot where I could stand at creek level to view the potholes. The eddying current of the creek has worn a series of potholes in the river bed than make for a great audio experience hearing the water flow through them. The trail is steep at points and is narrow most of the way as you can get views from above the potholes and the creek. If you continue on the trail, it leads back to a mini waterfall that is only a couple feet high, but because of the setting and the sound, I found I was very pleased I went the extra distance to view it. I understand that the experience can be completely different after a heavy rain or in the winter when ice covers much of the creek. My advice is to know your own skill level at handling flowing water and ice before you undertake this park when the conditions are more challenging. Review #2843

    Sign, sign, everywhere a sign. This attraction was one of only two in Williamsport that enticed us…read moreto drive here from Indy. The gorge itself was splendid but upon our return to our vehicle we were welcomed by the local anti-economic development committee (the local police force) trying to scare us away. Weird. Oh well, enjoyed the trip anyway.

    Photos
    Falls Creek Gorge - Fall Creek heading towards the potholes

    Fall Creek heading towards the potholes

    Falls Creek Gorge - View from the trail of the mini waterfall

    View from the trail of the mini waterfall

    Falls Creek Gorge - Although it's only a couple feet high, it can be heard from a fair distance and is worth the short hike

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    Although it's only a couple feet high, it can be heard from a fair distance and is worth the short hike

    Turkey Foot Nature Park - Blue bells

    Turkey Foot Nature Park

    5.0(4 reviews)
    24.2 mi

    Turkey Foot Nature Park is notable for the spectacular virgin sycamore trees that line Eagle Creek…read more A 335 year old downed tree is featured on display in the park. The display marks the rings on the tree trunk with significant events dating back to 1679! The 23 acre park was built along a section of the Eagle Creek just north of Zionsville that was never developed. Today, the park is hidden between housing developments and a Pete Dye golf course. The town of Zionsville maintains the park. On the south end of the park is a paved parking lot which holds 15 cars. The 1.3 mile of trails are also nicely paved making the hike suitable for a stroller or wheelchair. Small unpaved paths along the trail lead down to Eagle Creek where you can get great views of birds and other wildlife including an occasional bald eagle. Along the sycamore-lined trail, native wild flowers bloom throughout the season. There is a lovely footbridge that crosses Eagle Creek. I find the walk tranquil and refreshing. The park is used for running, biking or walking the dog. There is also entry points for canoe/kayak and fishing is allowed in the Creek. There is no charge to use the park.

    Turkey Foot Nature Park is a hidden gem! We discovered it via a tip from a friend who likes to take…read moreher kids creek stomping. This is a great park to do that. There is a shallow creek here that's perfect for wading with young kids, and a short hiking trail, and beautiful nature all around. On the bank of the creek, you'll find little shells all around. When we visited, there wasn't anyone else there, so it was very peaceful and quiet. The parking lot is small, so I imagine that Turkey Foot doesn't get too many visitors at one time anyway. There is a pedestrian bridge that was being repaired when we visited, so we couldn't access it, but we were able to see it from the creek.

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    Turkey Foot Nature Park - 335 year old sycamore

    335 year old sycamore

    Turkey Foot Nature Park
    Turkey Foot Nature Park - Amazing sycamores along Eagle Creek

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    Amazing sycamores along Eagle Creek

    McCloud Nature Park - parks - Updated July 2026

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