Turkey Run State Park

Visit Indiana's second-oldest state park.

Turkey Run State Park is just over an hour west of the Indianapolis airport. When you hike the Turkey Run State Park Ladder Trail, there is so much to see. This famous trail spans a little over five and a half miles of rugged terrain. Taking this hike will allow you to experience Boulder Canyon, Camel’s Back, the Punch Bowl, several historic sites, and countless old-growth sycamore trees. Be sure to bring shoes that can get wet because there are also several stream crossings along the way. You can even take these trails on a horse if you don’t want to take this long hike on foot. 

Several picnic tables are available throughout the park, so feel free to bring food with you. Also, Sugar Creek flows through the park and is a great opportunity for those who want to go kayaking or fishing. At the Nature Center, you will learn how the creek has shaped the area and the history behind the beautiful sandstone gorges. Don't forget to walk across the narrows covered bridge. This historic pedestrian bridge is accessible from 3 different trails and was originally built in 1882.

Turkey Run State Park is open year-round, and the trails are open from dawn to dusk. Regular park hours for daytime visitors are from 7 am to 11 pm daily. As you drive up to the main parking lot close to the Nature Center, you will also see tennis courts, basketball courts, and a sand volleyball pit that all guests are welcome to use. You can also make reservations at the nearby Turkey Run Inn or rough it at their campground if you want to spend multiple days exploring this vast state park.