Nature lovers, let’s be real here: Indiana is a fantastic state to get outside and enjoy. With more than 4,000 miles of incredible trails weaving throughout the entire state, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this area once you get used to it. There are 24 state parks total in the Hoosier State; Shades State Park in Indiana, for example, is a delight – but there’s a park within that park that you’ve got to see to believe, too. Somehow, it’s one of the locals’ best-kept secrets, and we think it deserves a little appreciation (and a good long hike).

Pine Hills Nature Preserve is a 470-acre preserve nestled within the larger, ultra-popular Shades State Park in Indiana.

Visit Indiana Shades is known for its incredible greenery and, during the autumn months, breathtakingly colorful red, gold, and orange foliage. Naturally, Pine Hills is surrounded by much of the same scenery, but it tends to take on a special significance when you understand the purpose of the preserve itself.

Pine Hills has the special distinction of being Indiana’s very first dedicated nature preserve.

Mark Slone/AllTrails This area has been allowed to grow wild and (mostly) free, with the only human interference being the trails and trail-keeping. You’ll also find some wooden signs and steps in a few spots, but overall, the area is wholly untouched and allowed to be Indiana at its wildest.

Marvel at the hundreds of species of native plants and wildflowers.

Visit Indiana Nestled in the fray you’ll find northern white pine trees, thick and abundant ferns, and so much more to appreciate. Indiana is home to countless species of plants and critters, some of which you’ll most definitely find on the preserve.

Pine Hills Nature Preserve is also home to some very intriguing geology.

Patty Brooks/AllTrails Check out steep ravines, plentiful cliffs, limestone bluffs, and even a super-cool erosion pattern on the rocks called “honeycombing.” Even if you’re not a rock nerd like we are, you’ll definitely have to admit…it’s pretty cool looking.

In the late spring and throughout summer, wildflowers make their appearances.

Chris Bowman/Flickr During winter, snow and ice cover the preserve and turn it into a gorgeous winter wonderland, filled with icy adventures left and right (though you should still stay on the trails, of course - adventure responsibly!).

While you’re here, you should absolutely check out Shades State Park, as well as the super-cool covered bridge that’s north of the park entrance over Sugar Creek.

Lindsey Hedges-Gieseking/AllTrails Shades State Park - and Pine Hill Nature Preserve, of course - are perfect for a day trip, whether you’re hoping to get some alone time in or you’ve got to find something to keep the whole family occupied.

It’s a beautiful place with plenty to love, and we think you’ll find yourself planning to come pack to experience it during every season.

bob/Flickr

For more photos, information, and more, make sure to visit the official Visit Indiana page for the preserve. For more information about Shades State Park, including directions, daily use fees, and more, make sure to check out the official website.

Visit Indiana

Shades is known for its incredible greenery and, during the autumn months, breathtakingly colorful red, gold, and orange foliage. Naturally, Pine Hills is surrounded by much of the same scenery, but it tends to take on a special significance when you understand the purpose of the preserve itself.

Mark Slone/AllTrails

This area has been allowed to grow wild and (mostly) free, with the only human interference being the trails and trail-keeping. You’ll also find some wooden signs and steps in a few spots, but overall, the area is wholly untouched and allowed to be Indiana at its wildest.

Nestled in the fray you’ll find northern white pine trees, thick and abundant ferns, and so much more to appreciate. Indiana is home to countless species of plants and critters, some of which you’ll most definitely find on the preserve.

Patty Brooks/AllTrails

Check out steep ravines, plentiful cliffs, limestone bluffs, and even a super-cool erosion pattern on the rocks called “honeycombing.” Even if you’re not a rock nerd like we are, you’ll definitely have to admit…it’s pretty cool looking.

Chris Bowman/Flickr

During winter, snow and ice cover the preserve and turn it into a gorgeous winter wonderland, filled with icy adventures left and right (though you should still stay on the trails, of course - adventure responsibly!).

Lindsey Hedges-Gieseking/AllTrails

Shades State Park - and Pine Hill Nature Preserve, of course - are perfect for a day trip, whether you’re hoping to get some alone time in or you’ve got to find something to keep the whole family occupied.

bob/Flickr

What’s your favorite afternoon getaway? Tell us about it in the comments, or by using this form. We love to hear from you!

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Address: Pine Hills Nature Preserve, IN-234, Waveland, IN 47989, USA