The best walks and hikes in Perry County
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Hikes in Perry County are primarily located within the Hoosier National Forest in southern Indiana. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense hardwood forests, and trails that often follow the shores of lakes or the banks of the Ohio River. The terrain offers a mix of gentle paths and more demanding routes with moderate elevation changes.
Best hiking trails in Perry County
- The most popular hiking route is Tipsaw Lake Loop via Tipsaw Trail — Hoosier National Forest,…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
7.00km
01:58
140m
140m
The German Ridge: North Loop offers an easy hiking experience through the Hoosier National Forest, covering 4.3 miles (7.0 km) with a total elevation gain of 464 feet (141 metres).…
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4
hikers
20.5km
05:36
310m
310m
Hike the challenging Two Lakes Loop Trail in Hoosier National Forest, a 12.8-mile route with 1010 feet of elevation gain around Lake Celina
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2
hikers
14.8km
04:02
220m
220m
Embark on the Oriole West Trail, a moderate 9.2 miles (14.8 km) hike that guides you through the diverse landscapes of Hoosier National Forest. You will experience varied terrain, beginning…
3
hikers
4.20km
01:05
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Saddle Lake Trail, a gentle path that winds for 2.6 miles (4.2 km) through deeply wooded areas. You will experience a tranquil and…
3
hikers
9.57km
02:29
50m
50m
Hike the moderate 5.9-mile Tipsaw Lake Trail loop in Hoosier National Forest, enjoying constant lake views and diverse forest scenery.
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hikers
28.3km
07:48
480m
480m
Hike the difficult 17.6-mile German Ridge Trail in Hoosier National Forest, featuring pine stands, rock outcrops, and German Ridge Lake.
1
hikers
11.8km
03:08
130m
130m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Oriole East Trail, a route that takes you through varied terrain within the Hoosier National Forest. You will find yourself on single tracks…
3.80km
01:02
50m
50m
Embark on an easy hike along the German Ridge Lake Trail, a pleasant route spanning 2.4 miles (3.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 176 feet (54 metres). You…
9.15km
02:30
140m
140m
Embark on the Mogan Ridge East Loop, a moderate hiking route that takes you through diverse landscapes within the Hoosier National Forest. You will traverse scenic hardwood forests and ridge…
3.29km
00:50
0m
0m
Enjoy an easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hike on the Tell City Riverwalk Trail, offering scenic Ohio River views and historic murals.
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Other adventures in Perry County
Tips from the Community
A great place to start your adventure in this area. Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area has a beach and facilities for picnics and overnight stays, which will make it ideal if you like experiencing nature.
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Sunset Park is a beautiful park on the banks of the Ohio River. There is a paved path that runs the length of the park and gives you a great view of the river the entire time. There is a picnic area but no restrooms or water.
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Sunset Park is a beautiful park on the banks of the Ohio River. There is a paved path that runs the length of the park and gives you a great view of the river the entire time. There is a picnic area but no restrooms or water.
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The lake offers opportunities for swimming and picnicking. The recreation area nearby is a great family-friendly area area that includes a beach.
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Indiana was once covered by the Laurentide Ice Sheet. This ice spread from the arctic all the way down as far as Tennessee. When the ice melted, it left behind massive boulders that it had dragged across the landscapes, some coming from as far away as Canada. You can find these glacial boulders scattered all throughout Hoosier National Forest, but there are some great examples on the German Ridge Trail.
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Oriole Lake can be found just a 5-minute walk up the Oriole West Trail from the parking area. You cannot swim in the lake as it is technically a reservoir, so there is a danger of underwater machinery. Fishing is allowed on the lake, and it is a popular destination for anglers.
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Carved from the natural sandstone in the region, these cliffs have been eroded over thousands of years by wind and water. They can be found alongside the trail and make for a great place to stop and have a picnic.
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This area contains large fields of wildflowers where you can find numerous species of butterflies and flowering plants. The best times to visit are spring and early summer in order to see the area in full bloom.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Perry County?
Yes, there are several options suitable for families and kids. A great choice is the German Ridge Lake — Hoosier National Forest trail, a short loop around a scenic lake. For a very gentle walk, the Sunset Park — Tell City trail offers a flat path along the Ohio River.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails in the Hoosier National Forest, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. The trails offer plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore the woodlands.
What are the most challenging hikes available?
For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the German Ridge Trail — Hoosier National Forest is a difficult 17.6-mile (28.3 km) route that will test your endurance. Another demanding option is the Two Lakes Loop Trail — Hoosier National Forest, a long loop that takes you through the varied terrain of the national forest.
Are there any circular or loop trails in the area?
Yes, many of the best hikes in Perry County are loop trails. The Tipsaw Lake Loop via Tipsaw Trail is a popular moderate loop around the lake. For a shorter, easier loop, consider the Saddle Lake Loop Trail.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Perry County?
The trails in Perry County are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the serene woodland environment, the scenic lake views, and the well-maintained paths through the Hoosier National Forest.
Are there any trails with waterfalls?
While the main trails focus on forests and lakes, some routes can feature waterfalls, especially after rainfall. The Buzzard Roost Trail, which descends towards the Ohio River, is known for its seasonal waterfalls and sandstone rock outcrops.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
Hiking in Perry County is defined by its natural beauty within the Hoosier National Forest. You can expect to see rolling hills, dense hardwood forests, sandstone bluffs, and scenic views of lakes like Tipsaw Lake and German Ridge Lake. Some trails also offer panoramic vistas of the Ohio River.
Are there any long-distance trails suitable for backpacking?
Yes, the region offers trails that can be used for longer day hikes or backpacking trips. The Oriole West Trail — Hoosier National Forest is a moderate 9.2-mile (14.8 km) route that provides an immersive forest experience. Always check local regulations for overnight camping before you go.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Perry County?
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in Perry County, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery with spring wildflowers or autumn foliage. Summer is also popular, but can be hot and humid, so be sure to bring plenty of water. Winter hiking can be rewarding, but trails may be icy or muddy.
How many hiking trails are there in this guide?
This guide features over 10 curated hiking trails in Perry County, ranging from easy, short walks to difficult, long-distance routes. The majority of these trails are located within the scenic Hoosier National Forest.
What other activities are available besides hiking?
Perry County is a hub for outdoor recreation. Besides hiking, the Hoosier National Forest and surrounding areas offer opportunities for fishing in lakes like Tipsaw and Rainbow Lake, boating on the Ohio River, camping, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
Most popular attractions in Perry County
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