Off Duty Traveler

Winter at Turkey Run State Park is pure enchantment. Located in west-central Indiana near Crawfordsville, this gem transforms into a tranquil haven of frost-touched forests, quiet trails, and breathtaking sandstone ravines. For outdoor lovers craving fresh air and scenic views, a winter hiking trip here delivers unforgettable moments, especially for those who appreciate rugged terrain and surprising wildlife encounters. My family spent Christmas in a cabin just outside the park, and we loved our time together there.

One of the first landmarks we encountered is the covered bridge near the park entrance. Dating back to the 19th century, it’s one of Indiana’s oldest surviving covered bridges and instantly sets the tone for a nostalgic winter adventure. With its snow-dusted timbers and peaceful creek views, the bridge makes the perfect photo stop and a memorable gateway into the park’s wilderness.

Pro tip: There are over 30 covered bridges in the area, so if you need a break from hiking, a driving tour to see the bridges is a fun activity as well.

Where to Stay

When planning your winter getaway, consider staying close to the park to maximize your outdoor time. Turkey Run Inn, located just steps from many trailheads (hint: check out trail 6, which is a short hike with a big payoff), offers cozy rooms with rustic charm and easy access to the park’s best features. If cabins are more your style like us, several vacation rental cabins and cottage lodges dot the area, providing a warm retreat after a day on the trails, many with fireplaces, full kitchens, and scenic views of the woods.

We stayed in this adorable rustic Airbnb cabin a few miles from the park. We like to cook our own meals, especially around the holidays. For those who prefer townside conveniences, Crawfordsville is only a short drive away and offers charming B&Bs, local restaurants, and small-town hospitality perfect for relaxing evenings after adventurous days.

Trail Highlights & Ratings

Turkey Run State Park offers a variety of trails ranging from moderate to rugged, ideal for hikers looking to challenge themselves against icy bluffs and serene woodland paths. I wasn’t sure what they meant by “moderate” or “rugged” so I did the research myself so you don’t have to.

Moderate = some strenuous hills, rocks, and narrow paths with steep cliffs.

Rugged = includes some moderate sections along with steep staircases, ladders, large rocks, large sections of water and/or mud during some seasons, and large fallen trees to climb over.

Turkey Run State Park Trails

• Trail 1 (Moderate): This loop is perfect for beginning winter hikers or families. Winding through wooded areas and gentle inclines, Trail 1 offers scenic overlooks without strenuous climbs. Expect about 2.5 miles of easy-to-follow paths, a great introduction to the park’s beauty.
• Trail 2 (Moderate-Challenging): Slightly more demanding, Trail 2 leads deeper into the heart of Turkey Run’s dramatic landscape. Snow and ice add character to this route, so hikers will appreciate the peaceful silences of winter woods along the way. Approximately 3.3 miles, it’s rated moderate to challenging due to some steeper stretches.
• Trail 3 & 4 (Rugged): For adventurers, Trails 3 and 4 are where the real magic happens. These paths traverse the park’s iconic sandstone gorges, steep staircases, and rocky ravines. Winter adds extra excitement — ice formations cling to cliff faces while evergreen trees stand quiet guard. These trails, at 4+ miles combined, are rated rugged and best suited for confident hikers with sturdy boots and trekking poles. Some require hikers to climb ladders or traverse over large rocks.

The Old-Growth Forest

One of Turkey Run’s most remarkable features is its old-growth forest, preserved thanks to early conservation efforts. Some trees in the park are more than 300 years old, towering above the trails with massive trunks and twisting branches. In winter, the forest feels especially quiet and reverent. Bare branches reveal the scale of these ancient trees, offering hikers a rare glimpse into what Indiana’s forests looked like centuries ago.

Wildlife & Bald Eagle Sightings

Winter is an excellent season for wildlife viewing. White-tailed deer are often seen moving through the woods, and fox tracks crisscross snowy trails. Most exciting of all is the chance to spot a bald eagle, which frequents the park during colder months, soaring above Sugar Creek in search of open water. We spotted this one at the river, just gliding along the water. It landed here and sat for quite a while, allowing us to watch it.

Go or No?

If you go, bring layers, traction devices for icy paths, sturdy boots that can withstand mud, and plenty of water. Winter days are shorter, but the views, from frosted sandstone cliffs to quiet ravines painted in white, make every step worthwhile. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful solo hike or a winter adventure with friends, Turkey Run State Park in Indiana’s covered bridges, diverse trails, and wildlife make it an outdoor escape you won’t soon forget. If you would like to see the rest of my photos and videos, visit my Google photo album here. I’ll see you on my next adventure!