Attention Wanderers: Parke County's Peaceful Backroads Beckon To You
By Marilyn Culler of Visit Indiana on May 29, 2018
Looking for an easy place to explore for an afternoon? Parke County’s backroads, waterways and vistas are a wanderer’s paradise. GPS will help find Rockville or Marshall. But if you’re up for a little adventure, turn off the GPS and explore!
The area around the dam at Cecil M. Harden Lake has picnic shelters, trails, playgrounds and boat ramps.
Take in the view as you drive across the dam at Cecil M. Hardin Lake/Raccoon SRA. Picnic. Fish off the dock. Launch a kayak or boat at one of the many boat ramps. Visit historic Mansfield – even in the rain, the view of the dam and mill from the covered bridge takes a traveler back in time.
Portland Mills Covered Bridge over Little Raccoon Creek is the second oldest covered bridge in Parke County.
Discover Portland Mills Covered Bridge. Horizontal white siding and Burr arch trusses highlight the remote beauty of this 1856 structure. Discover “Under the Arch” restaurant in Marshall. Fried bologna sandwich on the menu? Wow – back to childhood!
Sugar Creek meanders southwest from High Bridge toward Turkey Run State Park.
Happen upon out-of-the-way antique shops. Drive by Amish farms. Stop at roadside markets. Drop in on Amish bulk food stores and greenhouses (not open on Sundays).
The rugged terrain of Sugar Creek Conservation Area is part of a 43,000-acre project, beginning at Shades State Park and crossing five Indiana counties.
Skirt by the Narrows Covered Bridge at Turkey Run State Park. Up the hill, the Lusk Home and its kitchen garden offer a glimpse into a bygone era along Sugar Creek.
By Marilyn Culler of Visit Indiana on May 29, 2018