Indiana Spring Wildflower Hikes Scheduled at Charlestown SP
A series of guided wildflower hikes will be offered on spring Sundays at Charlestown State Park starting April 14. A different one of the park’s trails will explored each week.
The hikes are free with standard gate admission of $5 per vehicle for Indiana residents and $7 for out-of-state residents. Annual park passes are available.
A schedule and details follow.
April 14, 1 p.m., Trail 1
Meet in the Trail 1 parking lot. Trail 1 is a rugged 2.4 miles with many limestone outcroppings that harbor some of the park’s most beautiful spring wildflowers. There will be many good photo opportunities.
April 21, 1 p.m., Trail 6
Meet by the boat ramp to hike Trail 6 in search of spring ephemerals. Ephemerals are early- blooming and short-lasting wildflowers. Trail conditions are rugged (2.3 miles). Hikers also will pass by early lime kilns and the old Charlestown Landing. The kilns are remnants of one of the earliest industries in Clark County. The first part of the trail is easy and level—those who want a short hike can turn around before climbing the ridge.
April 28, 1 p.m., Trail 5
Meet at the Trail 5 overflow parking lot just outside the camping area gate house. Trail 5 is a moderate 1.8 miles. Hikers will go to an overlook on Fourteenmile Creek and should see many wildflowers along the way, such as wild hyacinth and rue anemone.
May 5, 1 p.m., Trail 2
Meet in the Trail 2 parking lot. Trail 2 is a moderate 1.4 miles. Hikers will pass scenic views of cascading waterfalls as they check out the many wildflowers and ferns.
May 12, 1 p.m., Trail 4
Meet at the parking lot for trails 3 and 4. Trail 4 is a rugged trail that goes through mixed hardwoods with views of Fourteenmile creek. Hikers will be on the watch for later ephemerals and ferns.
Charlestown State Park is at 12500 State Road 62 in Charlestown, 47111, just 20 minutes from Interstate 65.
