Overview
Hemlock Cliffs is the signature experience of Hoosier National Forest, and the trail that brings most visitors to this underappreciated corner of southern Indiana. The 2.7-mile loop descends into a sandstone box canyon carved by a seasonal stream, where the rock walls overhang dramatically and eastern hemlocks: rare this far west in Indiana: create a cool, shaded microclimate unlike anything else in the state.
The canyon is particularly striking in spring, when the seasonal waterfall drops 60 feet over the overhanging rim and the canyon ferns are at their freshest green. In summer the water drops to a trickle or disappears, but the canyon walls and hemlock canopy remain worth the visit.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 0.7: Forest Road to Rim
From the gravel parking lot, the trail heads south through a young second-growth forest of mixed hardwood. The terrain is flat on top before the descent begins at mile 0.5. The rim gives the first view down into the canyon. A steel staircase (installed for safety on the steep descent) drops to the canyon floor. The engineering of the staircase is somewhat jarring visually but makes the canyon accessible to more hikers.
Miles 0.7 to 1.8: Canyon Circuit
The canyon floor circuit follows the sandstone walls in both directions from the staircase base. The eastern arm leads to the waterfall alcove: the most dramatic section. The overhang here extends 30 to 40 feet from the wall, creating a room-like space that echoes with waterfall sound in spring. Hemlocks cling to the canyon walls above the overhang. The western arm follows the canyon to its narrowest point where the walls close within a few feet of each other.
Miles 1.8 to 2.7: Rim Return
The return leg climbs out of the canyon via a second trail back to the ridge level and returns through upland oak forest to the parking lot.
When to Hike
Late February through May: Peak waterfall season. The canyon is at its most dramatic with full water flow. Spring wildflowers on the approach trail begin in March. Crowds peak on warm spring weekends.
June through September: The canyon is still worth visiting for the geology and hemlock character. Water is reduced or absent. Slightly less crowded than spring.
Winter: The canyon can develop ice formations on the cliff face in cold winters, creating a different but impressive spectacle. The descent stairs can be icy: use caution.
What to Bring
Water from home: no source on trail. A light jacket for the canyon interior, which stays significantly cooler than the surrounding forest even in summer. Sturdy shoes for the steel stair descent and uneven canyon floor. Trekking poles are helpful on the return climb.
Trailhead Access
The Hemlock Cliffs Trailhead is on Forest Road 539 off IN-37, south of English, Indiana. The road to the trailhead is paved partway and gravel the rest. Vault toilets at the parking area. Free. No permit required (as of 2026). Dogs welcome on leash.
Nearby
The Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest Loop is about 30 miles north in the Lawrence County unit and provides a completely different old-growth oak forest experience. The Hickory Ridge Trail is in the same general southern unit area. Check current conditions before visiting: trail and road closures after significant rain can affect forest road access. Review Leave No Trace principles with attention to staying on the trail in the canyon bottom where soil and plant communities are fragile.