Turkey Run & Shades State Parks

Let's embark on a full-day hiking adventure in central Indiana at Turkey Run and Shades State Park!
Turkey Run and Shades are two of Indiana's gems and since they are only 20 minutes away from each other, let's make the 3 hour driving worth it and hit both!

We'll tackle two intermediate-level loop trails, stretching over a combined distance of 10.2 miles. AllTrails estimates our two hikes will take about 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

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THIS IS AN ALL-DAY, ADVANCED HIKING TRIP WITH 10.2 MILES OF HIKING AND 6 HOURS OF TOTAL DRIVE TIME. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING TO JOIN BUT ARE HESITANT DUE TO THE LENGTH OR THE CHOSEN TRAILS, PLEASE USE THE COMMENTS OR CHAT FUNCTION TO SHARE ALTERNATIVE SUGGESTIONS. DEPENDING ON YOUR FEEDBACK, I MAY MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO THIS INITIAL PLAN!

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Join the Co-op for a day hike at Turkey Run and Shades State Parks, the #1 and #6 rated state parks in Indiana, according to AllTrails.
Plan to meet at Lowe's at 7:00a (CT). We'll carpool to Turkey Run to start our day of hiking. It is going to be an almost 3-hour drive but it should be worth it! Hiking begins by 10:30a (CT). Lunch will be eaten after the first hike.
We'll start at Turkey Run with the 5 Mile Challenge (5.5mi; ~2:30 hours; Moderate; 4.7/5 on AllTrails) and conclude with the 6 Ravine Challenge (4.7mi; ~2:00 hours; Moderate; 4.7/5 on AllTrails).

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BOTH STATE PARKS ARE IN THE EASTERN TIME ZONE, BUT WE WILL STICK TO CENTRAL TIME (CT)

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WHERE/WHEN TO MEET:
7:00a - Meet at Lowe's to carpool
10:15a - Arrive at Turkey Run State Park Nature Center
10:30a - Begin first hike (5 Mile Challenge)
1:30p - Conclude first hike and have lunch on parking lot
2:00p - Drive to Hickory Parking Lot at Shades State Park
2:30p - Begin second hike (6 Ravine Challenge)
5:00p - Conclude second hike and return to Evansville
8:30p - arrive in Evansville
OPTIONAL: Have dinner on the way or when back on the East Side in Evansville (e.g., Thai or Mexican)

WHO SHOULD JOIN:

• People who enjoy longer and somewhat challenging hikes and don't mind driving 2x3 hours to see some of Indiana's most highly rated state parks.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Sturdy shoes for hiking
• Water (for drinking) and snacks
• Packed lunch (in your day bag)
• Sunscreen and Bug spray
• Walking stick or hiking poles (optional)
• Clean shoes for the car ride

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:

• Trails are rated moderate and rugged. Trails may be slick, muddy, and steep in some spots. Trails may involve climbing ladders and stairs. Please consult links below for further details!
• Again, please be aware of the ruggedness of these trails. Some have clef-like precipices. Some are muddy stream beds. In rainy season, some will be wading in rushing water.
• Public restrooms should be available at both parks. We'll also make a pit stop on our way.

COST:

• $7 per Indiana-registered vehicle
• $9 per out of state vehicle
  We'll split these fees per vehicle if we carpool.

GROUND RULES:

• No children.
• Dogs permitted only upon approval from organizer.
• Dogs are allowed in both state parks but must be on a leash at all times. E-collars are not a substitute for a leash.
• Leave no trace, and pack out all your trash.

MAPS / INFORMATION:

• Lowe's Oak Grove (Carpool)
• Turkey Run 5 Mile Challenge
• Turkey Run Trails 4, 8, 10, 9 and 5 (a.k.a. 5 Mile Challenge)
• Turkey Run Trailhead on Google Maps
• Turkey Run Trail Map (DNR)
• Turkey Run Official Website
• 6 Ravine Challenge on AllTrails
• Shades Trailhead on Google Maps
• Shades Trail Map (DNR)
• Shades Official Website