Thousands of acres of pristine wilderness beauty can be all yours on a refreshing hike in Brown County, Indiana!

Now if you’re thinking hiking isn’t for you, you’re not outdoorsy enough, or you don’t have the right gear, let me tell you something: If you can walk, you can hike! The truth is hiking is just walking in the woods.

And with more than 30 to choose from, there’s a trail perfect for everyone in this year-round playground! No matter which trail you explore, you’ll love roaming the peaceful forest, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas along our extensive trail system.

Here are 10 of our favorite trails in Brown County, plus tips to help you choose which to explore:

BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK

1. Beginners looking for an easy stroll will enjoy the mix of forest and water along the scenic 1.2-mile Ogle Lake Trail 7 Loop that is popular for hiking, running, and birding.

2. Hike the family-friendly 0.7-mile Discovery Trail next to the Nature Center with informational stops about native plants, trees, and wildlife along the way.

3. If you have little ones in tow, enjoy the easy 0.4-mile Friends Trail—it’s paved and perfect for kids or grandkids in strollers!

Looking for more trails to explore with your tykes? Check out our top kid-friendly hikes!

4. Take in a breathtaking sunset after hiking the 3.8-mile Walnut Trail to the top of picturesque Hesitation Point, a favorite of the #BC7VistaChallenge photo spots!

And if you want even more Instagram-worthy hikes, don’t miss these recommendations!

TREVLAC BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE

5. You’ll love reconnecting with Mother Nature as you wind through the woods and gradually climb to the top of the bluff along the historic 1.5-mile Yellowwood Trail.

HITZ-RHODEHAMEL NATURE PRESERVE

6. Catch up with friends in the Great Outdoors as you traverse the secluded 2.7-mile Mary McConnell Nature Trail, complete with steep terrain, high ridges, and deep ravines.

For even more trails off the beaten path, check out these recommendations!

LAURA HARE NATURE PRESERVE AT DOWNEY HILL

7. Roam quiet hills and valleys and cross a few small streams along the intermediate 5-mile Downey Hill Full Loop with sights to see along the way, including a glacial erratic, an old homestead well, and a building foundation.

Fun fact: This nature preserve is owned and protected by Sycamore Land Trust!

YELLOWWOOD STATE FOREST

8. Enjoy quality time with your person on a nice long hike along the beautiful 4.5-mile Yellowwood Lake Trail with lots of photo opps of the water, native wildlife, pine forests, and old-growth trees.

9. Sustained climbs up long narrow ridgelines will get your heart pumping on the 4.8-mile Scarce O’Fat Trail, but the views from High King Hill are worth the effort.

HOOSIER NATIONAL FOREST

10. Avid hikers will love the challenge of the 15.9-mile Nebo Ridge Trail, a true backcountry trek with rolling terrain, rocky sections, and a major ridge to conquer.

Don’t stop there. Check out this list for even more long and difficult hikes to explore!

There you have it—10 of our favorite trails in Brown County! Which trail will be your favorite? It’s time to lace up your hiking boots and find out!

And if you’re wondering which season is the best for hiking, don’t miss this blog post because the answer may surprise you!