The drive to Madison, Indiana was the kind that makes you roll the windows down; winding backcountry roads that eventually open to a view of the Ohio River and a charming bridge that delivers you straight into a downtown that feels plucked from an old school movie scene. Absolutely gorgeous. I couldn’t wait to explore more after checking out Clifty Falls State Park.
My best friend used to live in Madison and knew all the local spots. I love exploring a place with someone who knows the hidden gems. As we pulled in, we noticed dark clouds overhead and said a quick prayer that the rain would hold off.
Our first stop was the visitor center, where a short walk led us to a stunning lookout over the Ohio River. On the way back, we noticed a lot of sick looking and fallen trees. My friend instantly turned into Sherlock Holmes; analyzing the bark and leaves until she guessed some kind of insect infestation. Sure enough, inside the visitor center, we found a flyer about invasive beetles affecting the local trees.
The visitor center also had a cozy birdwatching nook, a fossil display, and a small copperhead snake on exhibit. A park worker casually mentioned that copperheads love the lookout we had just been standing at; apparently, it’s the perfect sunbathing spot. Mental note: visit the center before the lookout next time.
We made our way to the falls and started on the trail. The view was stunning. Not long after, we veered off the main path and stepped down into the creek. We spent the next stretch rock-hopping, fossil hunting, and soaking it all in. While my friend continued her search, I found a sun-warmed rock to lounge on and read while listening to the water flow. It was peaceful except for the occasional glance around for copperhead company.
Eventually, Sherlock joined me for a snack break, and we decided it was time to hike out and hunt for food. Along the way, we passed a group of hikers crossing a fallen tree. One zipped across; the second hesitated. We cheered him on until he made it team spirit on the trail!
Before leaving the park, my friend showed me a cute playground for kids and one more hidden waterfall lookout. We snapped a few photos and then headed downtown, stomachs rumbling.
We landed at a little hole in the wall called Hinkle’s, home of some of the best sliders I’ve ever had. After inhaling our food, I grabbed a milkshake to go, and we wandered to a nearby art shop. That’s when the sky opened up.
Caught without umbrellas, we took shelter in a store entrance, then counted to three and sprinted through the rain, laughing the whole way. By the time we made it to the car, we were drenched, blasting the heat as we drove home; full, muddy, and happy.
No responses yet