Some trails get all the love. They’re in every brochure, on every “Top 10” list, and there’s always at least one guy jogging past in neon shorts. But then there are the other trails — the ones locals talk about in low tones, like they’re passing along a family recipe. They’re quieter, prettier in their own way, and somehow always smell just a little more like adventure.
If you’re ready to lace up your boots (or sneakers — no judgment here) and explore the best-kept secrets in Southeastern Indiana, here are a few favorites:
1. Versailles State Park’s Back Loop
Sure, everyone knows Versailles State Park, but most folks stick to the main trails. There’s a back loop off Trail 3 that winds you through shaded valleys and up to little ridges where the views are way better than you’d expect. It’s also usually empty enough that you’ll only meet a couple of deer, or a squirrel.
2. The Flat Rock Gorge
Tucked away near St. Paul, this trail feels like stepping into another state entirely. The gorge walls make you forget you’re in Indiana, and the water runs clear enough to see every pebble. It’s not an easy stroll — bring water and maybe a hiking buddy — but the payoff is worth it.
3. Osgood Trails
Osgood’s walking paths aren’t huge, but that’s part of the charm. They wind around a peaceful little lake and through stretches of wildflowers. Great for a short afternoon walk when you just need to clear your head (or walk off a slice of pie from the diner).
4. The Forgotten Fire Tower Path
Not an official name, but that’s what some locals call it. It’s a little off the beaten path near Brookville Lake, and while the old fire tower isn’t exactly in climbable shape, the trail leading to it is a gem — quiet, shaded, and filled with birdsong.
Hiking these hidden spots isn’t just about the exercise — it’s about the stories you find along the way. The old stone wall you can’t explain. The tree roots that look like a sculpture. The feeling that you might be the first person to walk there all week.
So, pack a snack, take your time, and remember: the best trails are the ones you didn’t even know were there.