There are few things in this life that are quite as relaxing as a nice, quiet forest hike. Lucky for us, Indiana is full of amazing hikes that are open (and breathtaking) year-round — rain, snow, or shine. Sure, you could always go hiking on any of the most popular trails around the state, but sometimes, you crave something a little different. Well, here’s a sometimes-challenging (but rewarding) hidden gem hike in Indiana that, if you haven’t tried it yet, you’ll want to add to your to-do list ASAP.
Spring Mill Village State Park is a unique place that allows its visitors to step back in time to what life was like back in pioneer days.
Greg P/AllTrails It features a fully rebuilt replica village of what once was, and actors/guides all over the place to help visitors receive a truly authentic pioneer-style experience while learning.
It is here, at this park, that Trail 4 awaits.
Breana England/AllTrails Spring Mill Village Trail 4 is a 1.9-mile loop trail that will take you past plenty of historically significant places. You’ll feel like you’ve hiked back in time for a short while.
It is rated as good for all skill levels, though many do agree that it can be challenging in some spots.
Eddie Koulak/AllTrails Folks enjoy this trail because it provides a glimpse back in time - as we mentioned - and it’s quiet.
Many folks tend to overlook Trail 4 in favor of the more popular (ergo, more crowded) trails throughout the park.
John M./AllTrails It makes it so that this one seems much more remote than the others, despite being one of the major trails going through the grounds.
You’ll pass by and/or through plenty of historic sites, including, of course, the old grist mill (which is still a working mill), Hamer Cave, and even old Hamer Pioneer Cemetery.
Brian Fike/AllTrails If you’re anything like us, you can easily get lost among the crumbling old headstones at this seemingly-ancient burial ground; it feels kind of strange to know that the folks buried here lived and died centuries - if not longer - than we’ve been around ourselves. It’s a reminder that life goes on, and sometimes, entire ways of life go the way of history.
Spring Mill State Park and its trails, including Trail 4, are open year-round; there’s truly a special magic to every season out here.
John Gray/AllTrails During spring and summer, lush greenery takes over and wildflowers reign. In autumn, the color surrounding the park becomes astonishingly beautiful – and during winter, it transitions into a picturesque wonderland that you’ll definitely want to bring a camera for. Bundle up, though - it gets pretty cold!
No matter what time of year you find yourself here, you’re sure to fall in love with this beautiful trail.
Raven Black/AllTrails It’s the perfect hidden gem hike to take by yourself, with friends, or even with the kids. It’s a truly interesting and educational experience even outside of the hike; you’ll find yourself drawn back time and time again.
Do you have a favorite hidden gem hike in Indiana? Tell us about it by filling out this form, and you might just see your pick featured someday! For more photos, reviews, and a map of this trail, visit the official AllTrails page. Have you ever hiked Spring Mill Village Trail 4? Tell us your stories – and share your photos with us – in the comments!
Greg P/AllTrails
It features a fully rebuilt replica village of what once was, and actors/guides all over the place to help visitors receive a truly authentic pioneer-style experience while learning.
Breana England/AllTrails
Spring Mill Village Trail 4 is a 1.9-mile loop trail that will take you past plenty of historically significant places. You’ll feel like you’ve hiked back in time for a short while.
Eddie Koulak/AllTrails
Folks enjoy this trail because it provides a glimpse back in time - as we mentioned - and it’s quiet.
John M./AllTrails
It makes it so that this one seems much more remote than the others, despite being one of the major trails going through the grounds.
Brian Fike/AllTrails
If you’re anything like us, you can easily get lost among the crumbling old headstones at this seemingly-ancient burial ground; it feels kind of strange to know that the folks buried here lived and died centuries - if not longer - than we’ve been around ourselves. It’s a reminder that life goes on, and sometimes, entire ways of life go the way of history.
John Gray/AllTrails
During spring and summer, lush greenery takes over and wildflowers reign. In autumn, the color surrounding the park becomes astonishingly beautiful – and during winter, it transitions into a picturesque wonderland that you’ll definitely want to bring a camera for. Bundle up, though - it gets pretty cold!
Raven Black/AllTrails
It’s the perfect hidden gem hike to take by yourself, with friends, or even with the kids. It’s a truly interesting and educational experience even outside of the hike; you’ll find yourself drawn back time and time again.
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Address: Spring Mill Village, IN 47446, USA
