Indiana, bless its vast and beautiful heart! Sometimes, even living here, you forget the sheer amount of adventure hiding right under your nose. Like, take McCormick's Creek State Park, for example - a gem nestled just under a two-hour drive from Clark or Floyd County, perfect for a day trip. Now, for the longest time, I wouldn't have considered myself an "outdoorsy girl." But hey, everyone's allowed to have a "nature girl era," right?
The truth is, for a while, the great outdoors felt a bit intimidating. Maybe it was the perception that it wasn't for people like me, or maybe I just hadn't found the right entry point. But then I started my walking journey, and that journey, as it turns out, had legs (pun intended) that extended far beyond my familiar sidewalks. McCormick's Creek State Park, with its incredible range of trails – from the gently sloping and accessible to the more rugged and adventurous – became the perfect next step.
Because here's the thing: the outdoors are for absolutely everyone. No matter your age, ability, or experience level, there's a way to connect with nature and reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine.
Now, onto the fun part: how I spent my perfect double-feature day!
Home Away from Home: Canyon Inn
Let's be honest, roughing it in a tent isn't everyone's cup of tea (including yours truly, at least not yet!). Thankfully, McCormick's Creek State Park offers the perfect solution for nature newbies (or those who still appreciate a good night's sleep in a comfy bed) – Canyon Inn. This charming lodge boasts all the amenities you could need for a relaxing stay, including a restaurant open seven days a week, reliable Wi-Fi (because let's face it, sometimes you just need to check Instagram!), and most importantly for me, it's pet-friendly! Ziki, my adorable pup, was thrilled to be along for the adventure. For those who truly want to immerse themselves in nature, there are also cabins available, offering a more rustic experience.
A Toast to Indiana Wines: Butler Winery
But the day wasn't complete without a little indulgence! I made a pit stop at Butler Winery, a Southern Indiana staple known for its award-winning wines made from Indiana-grown grapes. Jim and his family have created such a welcoming space where all can come to learn more about wines and find their new favorite. Sipping on a glass of their crisp S while overlooking the picturesque vineyard was the perfect paring to unwind and ease into my nature getaway.
Pro Tip: Invest in an Indiana State Park Annual Pass!
For just $50, this little green gem unlocks the doors to all 24 Indiana state parks! That's right, you get access to over 700 miles of trails – more than enough to fuel your "hot girl walks" (or hikes, or leisurely strolls, whatever your heart desires) for the entire year. Plus, it's a fantastic way to explore the diverse landscapes Indiana has to offer. Who knows, maybe McCormick's Creek State Park will become your new favorite, but with 23 other options at your fingertips, the possibilities for adventure are endless!
So, ditch the excuses, grab your walking shoes (and maybe your furry friend!), and get ready to discover the hidden wonders of Indiana's state parks. McCormick's Creek State Park awaits, and trust me, it's a place that will welcome you with open arms (and plenty of paw prints!).
