FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAVW) — Indiana State Parks are challenging Hoosiers to get outdoors in 2025.
According to a release from Indiana State Parks, resolutions can be healthy, fun, and adventurous! Hoosiers looking for a challenge or a reason to get outdoors are encouraged to consider completing one of the many Indiana State Park’s challenges in 2025.
There are 12 challenges at different properties. The challenges range in difficulty and type.
According to the release the newest challenge is the Falls of the Ohio State Park Fossil Challenge. The challenge invites explorers to discover unique fossil features on the 390-million-year-old Devonian fossil beds, which are among the largest exposed beds in the world.
All state park challenges are said to encourage exploration. Most have a physical fitness component. The fossil challenge also features a mental matching and discovery component. As guests walk around the fossil beds (river level permitting) for fitness, they will try to match these ancient treasures in the limestone with the challenge brochure photos.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are many hiking trail challenges to conquer. The longest mileage for hikers is at Charlestown State Park. Hikers are challenged to hike all 16.3 miles of trails at the park.
The shortest mileage is the 1.5-mile hike at Indiana Dunes State Park which contains a 552-ft vertical climb, where hikers will traverse three of the tallest sand dunes.
Locally, at Turkey Run State Park you’ll marvel at the natural geologic wonders of this beautiful park as you hike the 5-mile challenge along the perimeter of its famous trails in the Falls Canyon-Rocky Hollow Nature Preserve. You’ll traverse 3 canyons, climb a ladder, cross a suspension bridge, and see the park’s first steward’s home. See the 5 Mile Challenge brochure by clicking here.
Or locally you can also check out the 6 Ravine Challenge at Shades State Park. There you’ll enjoy the ups and downs of rugged hiking by traveling through six ravines. Climb ladders, enjoy beautiful vistas, and chase down a waterfall or two. Learn how to take the 6 Ravine Challenge by clicking here.
Small boaters can enjoy paddling challenges at Chain O’Lakes State Park, with its winding nine-lake challenge, and at Summit Lake State Park, with its two kayak trails challenge. Both offer healthy challenges on the water with many wildlife viewing opportunities.
Challenges can be completed over several visits to the parks. A list of all the State Park Challenges and details can be found online at: dnr.IN.gov/healthy.
