hiking at Turkey Run

We've been making an effort lately to explore more of our area--especially before winter hits-- and we'd heard great things about Turkey Run State Park both from friends and online recommendations. So we took off to explore one Saturday in July that wasn't baking hot, and we loved it! The landscape is so different from the rest of Indiana. We chose the most difficult hike because it winds through the ravines and even has ladders to climb, which piqued our interest. We didn't totally realize just how tricky the ladders would be, especially because the direction we hiked meant we had to descend the ladders which is harder than climbing up in my opinion! I wish I had a photo of the ladders but I was definitely focused on keeping everyone from falling while we climbed down. There were two ladders, each leaning against the side of a rock wall, so that you were essentially scaling about two stories altogether. And it was slick too! It was quite the adventure, and once we got through it and I could breathe again I could appreciate how different this hike is from typical hiking trails. That said, Deric and I decided that next time we'll take the opposite direction so we climb up the ladders instead of down.

Reid rode in the backpack for most of the hike since he would have had a bit of trouble in spots...and obviously he didn't get to attempt the ladders on his own. ;)

It was so fun to hike through these ravines! So different from typical trails through the woods.

Jake loved this hike! He conquered all of it with no problem and would run ahead to explore little paths off to the side of the trail. It was so fun to see him work hard and enjoy the hike. He and Reid both talk about going back to Turkey Run and I would love to go again as well!

Checking out a cave towards the end of the hike!

Muscles...or their best attempt at it!

You know Jake got tired as we were walking from the trailhead back to the parking lot, so Deric got a little extra workout in right at the end. I love how content Reid looks just relaxing in his seat!

With baby girl coming so soon (!) I'm not sure we'll all make it back to Turkey Run this fall but who knows?! It would be worth it. We look forward to exploring more of the trails at the park and even re-hiking those ladders!