If you attend Indiana University, you probably know about Griffy Lake, Rooftop Quarry and Lake Monroe, but what about all the other natural gems near Bloomington only the insiders know about? “Southern Indiana is a natural mecca,” says Steven Higgs, leader of Natural Bloomington ecotours, says. He loves Southern Indiana for its wide variety of landscapes. You can take advantage of all Southern Indiana offers in a few short drives of Bloomington, so here are a few surprising places to explore before you graduate.
If you have been to Griffy Lake and want to see something new...
An hour drive south of Bloomington on state Route 37, just two miles east of Orangeville and five miles southwest of Orleans, is the Wesley Chapel Gulf of the Lost River. Marked by a Hoosier National Forest sign, the Gulf is a National Natural Landmark and part of the Lost River, a river that stretches for 87 miles, 23 of which are underground. The Gulf was caused by the collapse of a rock roof over one of the underground channels of the Lost River, so it looks almost like a craters in the middle of the forest filled with water. It is a must-see for the adventurous. “It is hard to believe most people don’t know we have something so unique here,” said Higgs.
If you want to dust off your camera...
Take a couple hours to wander Latimer Woods, Higgs’ favorite spot to photograph because it is home to some of the largest trees he has ever seen. If you have enjoyed the scenic drive to Nashville, Indiana, you’ve already seen it. This old growth forest borders state Route 46 just east of Bloomington. There is a gravel parking lot available behind the Arbutus Church on Twinleaf Trace. Walk through the Latimer Woods Nature Trail as seasons change for the best pictures of the fall foliage or snow-covered treetops.
If you and your friends are in the mood to explore...
Go to Bluffs of Beaver Bend Nature Preserve in Martin County, near Shoals, IN. It is nearly 210 acres of sandstone cliffs and old-growth forest. It is important to be aware of where you are hiking here because it lacks trails, but the views of the cliffs along the White River are worth the challenge of finding your way around. Those views are why Higgs says it’s one of his favorite places. Bring a compass and remember where you entered the preserve. If hiking without a path is not your thing, Natural Bloomington offers ecotours of the area.
