A visit to Brown County isn’t complete without exploring Brown County State Park. Spanning nearly 16,000 acres of rolling hills, mist-shrouded ravines, and winding ridges, the park features almost 20 miles of tree-lined roads and countless overlooks with endless forest views.

Did you know? Though ice age glaciers never reached the “Hills o’ Brown,” their meltwaters traced the land—shaping the dramatic ridges, steep slopes, and quiet gullies you see today.

1. Explore Our Scenic Vistas

Step out at Hesitation Point, Inspiration Point, Weed Patch Hill, or any of the park’s breathtaking overlooks and let the rolling hills and misty valleys take your breath away.

For a true adventure, take the 7 Vista Challenge, a self-guided journey to seven of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. Drive, hike, or bike between the vistas, and once you complete the challenge, stop by the Visitor Center to claim a special sticker as a keepsake of your spring adventure.

2. Hike the Trails

With more than 20 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to rugged adventures, spring is perfect for exploring on foot. Listen to birdsong, spot fresh blooms, and breathe in the crisp forest air. Be sure to hike Trail 5, you might catch sight of the rare and state-endangered Yellowwood tree in all its spring glory.

Visit The Brown County Visitors Center for a FREE State Park Map!

3. Drive the Scenic Roads 

If walking isn’t on the agenda, the park’s tree-lined roads are made for a leisurely drive. Windows down, sun warming your face, and miles of forest rolling past—it’s an easy way to soak in the scenery.

4.Go Mountain Biking 

Indiana has become a mountain biking hotspot, and Brown County is at the heart of it as an IMBA Bronze-level Ride Center with Epic Ride trails. With over 600 miles of natural-surface trails across the state, riders of all levels can enjoy everything from easy, flowing paths to tight, technical singletrack, all surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and stunning vistas.

5. Saddle Up for Horseback Riding

Feel the rhythm of the hills on horseback. Guided trail rides let you experience the park in a peaceful, old-fashioned way while taking in the scenic vistas.

6. Visit the Nature Center

Step inside the park’s Nature Center and discover one of Brown County’s most fascinating residents: the rare, state-endangered timber rattlesnake. Learn about its habitat, behaviors, and the conservation efforts helping protect this incredible species.

7. Visit & Stay at The Abe Martin Lodge

No trip to Brown County State Park is complete without stopping at The Abe Martin Lodge. Imagine enjoying a hearty meal, sipping coffee on the deck while taking in the sweeping panoramic views, and then settling in for the night in a cozy room or cabin. With other overnight options nearby, it’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and soak in the park after a full day of hiking, biking, or exploring the trails.