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| - There is a big, damn lie told in coastal areas of the United States. That lie is sinister; it is cruel; it is close to blasphemy. This falsehood teaches that the central part of the country, Indiana included, is boring, plain, ugly, uncultured, and not worth visiting. It is "flyover country." Should anyone stand in protest of this moniker, all he or she would need is a collage of pictures from Clifty Falls State Park. A visit to this majestic place could warm the heart and stimulate the mind of even the most highfalutin beachfront property owner.
Located on the outskirts of Madison, Indiana, one of the most picturesque towns in the state, Clifty Falls has something to offer everyone. The park is huge - 1,416 acres! Due to its size and amenities, it is perfect for a weekend getaway. However, it is likewise a fantastic choice for an afternoon nature excursion. Having 10 hiking trails (plus a really cool old 19th-century railroad tunnel), most of which are rugged, the experienced hiker will not be disappointed. While it is certainly not as rugged as the Rockies or the Alaska Range, the rolling hills of Southern Indiana still provide scenic cliffs, rushing water, and uphill climbs. Be sure to come prepared if you plan to take the rugged trails. For those who are not able to complete the rugged trails, the park has plenty of easy-to-moderate paths. You will still see some beautiful sights, including the waterfalls, on the easiest trails. One thing is for certain: Clifty Falls is the perfect place to get an out-of-the-gym workout!
Clifty Falls State Park has large campgrounds - both primitive and non-primitive. Personally, I'd rather sleep at the lovely Clify Inn. The inn has the usual hotel amenities - including an indoor pool. Better yet, you can eat your fill of good, down-home, Hoosier cuisine. If you're staying for the weekend, be sure to venture into Madison for a meal on the Ohio River.
Clifty Falls State Park: proving Indiana isn't "flyover country" since 1920!
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