HEMLOCK CLIFFS TRAIL
Hemlock Falls Trail showcases the beautiful landscapes offered by the natural and untouched southern Indiana region. Winding through a lush forest down into a box canyon the rugged trail provides a relaxing environment for those seeking tranquility and self-reflection. This area highlights the wisdom of early leaders who sought to preserve the rugged beauty of the unspoiled Hoosier National Forest.
LOCATION
TRAIL FEATURES
Type of Trail: Forest Trail
Surface: natural
Uses allowed: walking, hiking
Wheelchairs allowed: not appropriate
Which uses NOT allowed: motorized vehicles
Attractive Features: Travel through Hoosier National Forest, a box canyon
AGENCY INFORMATION
US Forest Service
Tell City Ranger District
248 15th Street
Tell City, IN 47586
812-275-5987
More Information
From the trail website:
Hemlock Cliffs is a valley of special beauty in southern Indiana. A cool climate, created by the box canyon shape, sandstone rock formations, and seasonal waterfalls is responsible for the unique trees and plants that grow here.
Hemlock Cliffs has long been a popular destination for people seeking tranquility, and a chance for reflection from within a cool rock shelter or along the shady stream.
The area features, sandstone rock outcrops, overhangs, cliffs, rock shelters, and ravines. The rock you see is sandstone of the Tar Springs Formation. Much of the sandstone is “Honeycombed” by weathering of iron ores. Springs, small caves, and subterranean drainage conduits are in the underlying Glen Dean Limestone.
Lush vegetation is found along the cliffs, waterfalls and canyon floor. Hemlock, a tall evergreen with short needles and small cones, thrives in the canyon’s cool climate. Wintergreen, a rare plant, is also found here. Wild geranium, French’s shooting star, mountain laurel, and liverwort are some of the other plants of interest found here.
Archaeological excavations indicate Native American occupation as early as 10,000 years ago. The head of the canyon is a large, semi circular rock shelter, which undoubtedly provided cover and defense to the early occupants of this area.
A one-mile hiking trail leads you down into the canyon under a lush canopy of large trees, through rock shelters, and past high seasonal waterfalls. Parts of the trail are steep and slippery when wet, so use caution. It could take two leisurely hours to complete the loop.
In winter this area is especially beautiful after a snowfall or when cold temperatures freeze the waterfall. Use caution on ice or snow covered trails.