story by GLENDA WINDERS
You may have visited Parke County in the past to photograph its 31 historic covered bridges, poke around in antique stores and gift shops, and munch on an Amish pretzel or two. But have you ever come to make a splash? If not, the nation’s 250th birthday year might be the time to experience a new adventure.
Channel your inner Meriwether Lewis and William Clark by climbing aboard a kayak, canoe, or tube and enjoying the waterways of the great outdoors. While that pair began their westward expedition in Illinois and did not go through Indiana, the creeks, rivers, lakes, and streams available to you were here since long before they began their journey.
Paddle your craft into the past on Sugar Creek through Turkey Run and Shades state parks. Many believe this to be the most beautiful creek in the state with its dramatic sandstone cliffs, stunning gorges, and the presence of some of those covered bridges.
Indigenous people named the creek because of the many sugar maple trees they found here, and along the way you’ll also enjoy stands of white oak, walnut, and hemlock. Wildlife is prolific here, too. Keep an eye out for bald eagles’ nests and watch the noble birds themselves soaring high above you.
Take a break to do a little fishing, and you’re likely to come away with largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, panfish, and catfish. Swimming is dangerous, but you can stop in shallow spots to go wading or tie up and go ashore for a picnic.
A network of hiking trails atTurkey Run State Park will intrigue you, too. Want to try the5-Mile Challenge? You’ll traverse three canyons, climb a ladder, cross a suspension bridge, and see the park’s first steward’s home. As a reward, you’ll see natural features that are typically difficult to access, and if you show your photos to a ranger, you’ll earn a sticker.
No outfitters operate within the parks, so gear up at one of several options before you go in. Then forget the world outside and let this wonderfully clear waterway carry you along peacefully through the landscape. If you decide to stay on, campsites are plentiful, or maybe you’ll bunk in at the stately Turkey Run Inn.
Just a few minutes away is Racoon Lake. Officially named the Cecil M. Harden Lake, this 2,060- acre reservoir is known for its calm waters and scenic shoreline. Multiple fishing piers and launch points make boating a breeze. Boaters can leave from here to explore secluded coves, water-ski in open stretches, or enjoy a day of cruising. Anglers will find crappie, bass, and catfish in abundance, and with nearby camping, picnic areas and panoramic lake views, the whole family will enjoy the visit. And new this year on the Wabash River at Montezuma is a floating fishing dock with a kayak launch and 20-foot gangplank at Reeder Park.
Plan a visit to Parke County, Indiana to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday this summer and watch the fireworks at one of our beautiful natural locations and make some special memories to last a lifetime.
For more information visit: www.coveredbridges.com
