Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club
Outings Newsletter Local Action Resources Membership
Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club
Outings Newsletter Local Action Resources Membership
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National |
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Hoosier National Forest
Located between Evansville and Louisville, I will describe three interesting trails. In my opinion, other system trails could be characterized as just "a walk in the woods."
The first stop is Hemlock Cliffs. Take I-64 east from Evansville to IN 37. Go north about 2 miles and note the Forest Service (FS) sign to turn left. Follow this well-maintained gravel road about 5 miles to the recreation area. This two mile loop trail enters a canyon with sandstone outcrops, overhangs, and terminates in a box canyon with a waterfall over a large shelter bluff. The hike from the floor to the parking lot is a little strenuous. In addition to Hemlock trees, you’ll find wintergreen plants, a protected species.
Saddle Lake Recreation Area. From above, return to highway 37 and drive south 14 miles. Look for old Hwy.37 and follow it to the recreation area. The Saddle Lake Trail is a 22 mile loop which continually parallels the lake, and its changing views. The lake is situated in the middle of the forest.
German Ridge Recreation Area. Back on Hwy. 37, go north a few miles and look for IN 70. Turn right and head for the town of Derby. Watch for a brown FS sign to the recreation area. There are two trails here: the Lakeshore Trail and the German Ridge Trail. The latter is a 1.5 mile trail and its prominent features include sandstone rock outcrops, and interesting cliff walls. Note that the Hoosier National Forest requires horse and bicycle riders to obtain a three dollar daily permit tag.
While here, why not make a weekend of this adventure and also tour the three nearby commercial caves: Marengo, Wyandotte, and Squire Boone? For more trail information, contact Bob Tyson 684-5643. °
Associated Web Links:
Hoosier National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/hoosier/
Hemlock Cliffs: http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/hoosier/docs/hemlock_cliffs.htm
German Ridge Trail: http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/hoosier/recreation/german_ridge.htm
Saddle Lake Recreation Area: http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/hoosier/camp_info.htm#Saddle%20Lake%20Recreation%20Area
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