Day Hike, Turkey Run & Shades State Park(s)

It is a good time of year to camp and hike at Turkey Run! It's colder and therefore, the more sane choose to stay in cabins or the inn. More space on the trail and cooler temps, it's a win-win. (for us 'serious' adventurers).

This is not a 'camping' trip, per se. Turkey Run offers electric sites, cabins and an Inn; so feel free to stay as your comfort dictates. Or, make the short 2 hour drive.

But, if you are like me and plan to camp, it may be prudent to split spaces (2 tents per space) and save a few bucks. No camp site reservations can be made after Nov 7th. The 'walk-in' policy is place. There should be plenty.

Saturday Nov 9th, 9 AM:

Turkey Run, meet u at the Inn at 9 am for some of the free coffee (in the main lobby). The plan is to hike as much as possible. Four to five hours of moderate to strenuous hiking.

Sunday Nov 10th, 9 AM:

Shades, meet at the Hickory Parking lot at 9 am (where all the main trails connect). Three to four hours of moderate to strenuous hiking to be enjoyed at Shades.

Wildlife possibilities: Deer, Vultures, Owls, All kinds of songbirds, those famous Turkey Run Racoons, Osprey, Bald Eagle....

What to Bring:

-Daypack

-One to two liters of water for the trail

-Snacks for the trail

-Basic first aid for blisters, etc

-Hiking poles

-Camera

-Money for the Turkey Run Inn's Buffet (quite delicious after a day on the trail)

Maps & Logistics

Turkey Run: http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2964.htm

Shades: http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2970.htm