Hike the Turkey Run Trail System

Turkey Run State Park Nature Center
4.4
5 Reviews
Hike the Turkey Run Trail System
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Details

Distance
14 miles
Route Type
Loop

Features

Scenic
River
Forest
Easy Parking
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Track

About this place

Added by Kathie Green

Hike through a beautiful, unique landscape, of riverside trails. Ready for another adventure post hike, there are nearby canoe and kayak rentals.

Turkey Run State Park is one of Indiana's most beautiful hidden gems. The fourteen miles of trails that intertwine Sugar Creek range from beginner to advanced and are easily accessible from the the park's visitor center. With the longest trail stretching only two miles, Turkey Run's trail system is perfect for day hikes or a weekend adventure.

These trails run through a system of deep canyons that are unique among Indiana's typical flatland areas. As you navigate the sandstone walls, you're able to discover nearly invisible side canyons and crevasses.

Following the path behind the visitor center or from the park's nearby campsite, you'll find yourself at the banks of Sugar Creek. From there you can explore the larger amphitheater-like canyons or cross the suspension bridge to navigate the deeper ravines. The Turkey Run trail system is essentially one continuous trail that leads to points of interest throughout the park. By taking a look at the trail map (link below), you'll be able to visit each captivating landmark such as Gypsy Gulch, Falls Canyon and Camel's Back.

Trail Map: http://www.indianaoutfitters.com/Maps/state_park_maps/turkeyofmap.htm

If floating down stream is more your style, there is a canoe and kayak rental business just down the road from the park's entrance. Loading you into a van, prepped with paddles and life jackets, you'll be shuttled upstream and launched into the water. During these self guided trips, you'll pass under two of Indiana's historic covered bridges and the suspension bridge, mentioned earlier. With thirty minute intervals between shuttle services, you're able to take your time and explore along the river.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Luke Moster
2/13/2025
Can be crowded at times. Great parking. When you have the choice, always opt for the trails with ladders: they’re all in creek beds ...
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Amelia Walker
7/4/2020
Awesome MidWest Hike!
This park has tons of trails of varying difficulty and topography! My personal favorite is the one with the ladders - you start ...
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John Clairmont
6/21/2020
Fun Place, Tons of Trails!
As I stated in another review for Turkey Run, it can be quite busy, so plan your visit accordingly. It is worth that visit, ...
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Teresa Ledford
10/8/2017
Turkey Run In The Summer
My neice and I hiked several trails in Turkey Run with a break along the river. We hiked the canyon and the Forest. The ...
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Neal Brown
10/23/2016
Beautiful Autumn Hike
I took my 9 yr old son with me for his first hike. We hiked 8 miles through beginner legs and into more advanced ...
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