워싱턴 카운티 최고의 워킹 & 하이킹 경로

While walking through these forests, you’ll see a variety of tree species such as oaks, hickories, black walnut, and many others. Take the opportunity to notice their different shapes and forms—some even bear the scars of lightning strikes from the intense summer thunderstorms common in the area.

New Chapel Trailhead is a popular access point on the Knobstone Trail with a small parking lot. While there’s no formal campground at the trailhead itself, you’ll find plenty of designated backcountry sites along the trail in either direction. Parking is available but can fill up on weekends, so arrive early if this is the place you’ve chosen to start your hike. A solid choice for jumping into Indiana’s rugged, rewarding “little Appalachian” experience!

A small creek crossing on the Knobstone Trail that can vary with the season. Usually shallow, but can swell after heavy rain. It’s a good spot to filter water if needed—just check conditions first and watch your footing on slippery rocks.

Clark State Forest spans 24,000 acres of dense hardwoods and open areas. It covers a large portion of the Knobstone Trail, offering abundant wildlife and several primitive campsites scattered throughout. The varied terrain includes steady climbs, gentle descents, a few creek crossings, ridges, and some sections of rocky trail. It’s a great place to experience Indiana’s natural beauty and backcountry.

Leota Trailhead offers a quieter, less developed entry to the Knobstone Trail. Parking is limited and informal, with no restroom facilities. This spot is ideal if you’re looking for a more rugged experience right from the start. The trail here quickly leads into dense forest and steady climbs. If you are hiking the Knobstone Trail, this can be a place to camp. The area allows primitive camping, so you can pick any campsite that feels comfortable for you. Always minimize your impact and give preference to preexisting flat and open areas.

This is one of the more developed access points along the Knobstone Trail. It has a large gravel parking area, vault toilets, and an information board with maps and trail details. There are also nearby primitive camping spots, and it can be a convenient base to spend the night close to the lake. A solid choice if you want easier logistics and better facilities for planning your route.

A small dam surrounded by forest with basic facilities. The Knobstone Trail passes by Delaney Creek Dam Number 5, which is also a good access point. It has a small parking area with restrooms and picnic tables. It’s a convenient place to start or finish a hike, refill your water, and take a break before tackling the nearby climbs. The area is usually quiet on weekdays but can get busier with local visitors on weekends.