Shaking off the winter blahs? Feel the need to get the blood circulating again? Here are some suggestions to get you out and going right now!
BIKING
Rolling hills, spectacular scenery, and friendly towns characterize biking along the Ohio River Scenic Byway. When you roll into Madison/Jefferson County, you will have the opportunity to explore some 600 miles of tranquil roads. You’ll find flat farmland, challenging hills, river views, and creek crossings – a ride for every skill level. Families with young children will find suitable riding on the Hanover College Campus, at Clifty Falls State Park, and on the southern end of the former Jefferson Proving Ground. Often touted as one of Indiana’s top rides, Madison is regular stop for regional biking events and biking enthusiasts. TRIRI, Indiana State Parks Touring Ride in Rural Indiana, attracts cyclists from all over the USA and includes Madison as one of their stops.
The Madison Bike Club, a very active cycling community, conducts a wide range of rides for all cycling levels throughout the season. Check them out.
HIKING
You never know who you’ll meet on the trail.
For those looking for beauty and adventure, don’t miss Clifty Falls State Park where wildlife and indigenous flora and fauna abound. This 1300+ acre park features 70 foot gorges, seven plunging waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, a nature center, several picnic areas, swimming pools, an inn with conference facilities and RV and primitive campsites. Ten hiking trails from very rugged to easy will provide all the challenge the outdoor enthusiast is seeking. For a short rest, the newly renovated inn will impress the most discerning visitor.
Walking & Talking
Heritage Trail of Madison, a ¾ mile pathway for jogging, walking, hiking and biking connects downtown with the hilltop. Great views!
TRAIL RIDING
Shilo Farms just outside Madison in Canaan offers great trail riding horses for every level of riding. Rod and the crew are sticklers for personal attention; they offer a wide choice of saddles to make your ride comfortable and to insure a safe ride. Rides can be scheduled just about anytime; they just need a few days notice if possible. Prices vary depending on the length of the ride you wish to take. You can ride for 1 hour or 1/2 a day!! All day rides can be arranged with proper notice, but be ready to ride! We recommend is a 1 or 2 hour ride. (That’s a long time to sit in a saddle!!)
FOR THE BIRDS
Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge is a Globally Important Bird Area because of its value to migratory birds. Located just 5 miles north of Madison, portions of the refuge are open for wildlife observation, photography, fishing, hunting, interpretation and environmental education.