Hemlock Cliffs will make you forget you’re in Indiana. Hike into a quiet canyon that feels like Middle-Earth. Enjoy the tranquility of this unique place.

Sandstone rock formations, cliff overhangs, seasonal waterfalls, and stunning scenery wherever you look, this entrancing place deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list.

Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/hoosier/recreation/natureviewing/recarea/?recid=41570&actid=64

Safety

Hemlock Cliffs is often described as a rugged area. Approaching with caution, I found it was not as difficult as expected. Still, all visitors need to be careful as parts of the trail can be slippery when wet.

Do Not drink the water! Area hemlock trees release toxins into the water.

There are no restrooms or other facilities in this remote location, so come prepared.

Camping, campfires, and rock climbing are not allowed.

Getting To Hemlock Cliffs

Hemlock Cliffs is located between Highway 237 and Highway 37, about two miles north of Interstate 64. While driving, use caution. The back roads to the site are twisty and hilly.

From the north, take SR IN 37 South and turn left onto South Overhead Bridge Road. Continue for 2.6 miles. Turn right onto Governors Trace/Otter Creek Rd. Continue for 0.3 miles. Then turn left onto Hatfield Road and continue 2.9 miles to the Hemlock Cliffs entrance, located on the left. Continue 0.4 miles to the trailhead parking lot.

From the south, take I-64 West to exit 86 for IN 237 N. Continue for 2.6 miles. Turn left onto N Union Chapel Rd. Continue for 2.6 miles. Turn right onto Hatfield Rd and continue 1.6 miles to the Hemlock Cliffs entrance on the right (most of this stretch is unpaved). Continue 0.4 miles to the trailhead parking lot.

Note: No RVs are allowed in the parking lot.

Leashed dogs are allowed.

The Hemlock Cliffs Trail

A one-mile trail leads down to the canyon. Take time to enjoy the seasonal spring waterfalls and lush summer foliage. Frozen waterfalls and stark beauty await in winter. Be cautious on ice and snow-covered trails.

The head of the Hemlock Cliffs trail is a large, semi-circular rock shelter. Imagine early area occupants seeking shelter here.

You can easily spend two hours exploring this wonderful place. Hemlock, wintergreen, wild geranium, and mountain laurel can all be found here.

Shortly after entering the trail, you can view a waterfall in the spring and early summer.

Enjoy the sandstone overhangs, cliffs, and ravines. Watch for small springs and caves next to the trail. Everywhere you look, there is a special beauty in this unique Indiana place.

Watch closely; you might see frogs, lizards, and the occasional deer among the gorgeous old-growth trees.

About halfway in, around the 0.6-mile mark, there is a short off-shoot trail to another waterfall. Unfortunately, my visit was in late summer, so the falls were not flowing.

While continuing on the trail, be sure to stop frequently. Life is too short not to take advantage of the fantastic moments that come our way.

Continue along the trail for more stunning views. Although this is a shorter hike, at only 1.2 miles, the amazing beauty and peacefulness of Hemlock Cliffs made this one of my favorite Indiana walks.

Final Thoughts

As you head homeward, I encourage you to take a moment to look back and remember the day’s adventure in this fabulous slice of Indiana.

Hemlock Cliffs is located within the southern section of the Hoosier National Forest. Southern Indiana is home to numerous interesting and unique trails and camping areas. Check out their website for more information and adventure planning: https://www.fs.usda.gov/hoosier/

That’s it for now. Until next time, get some dirt under your boots!

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