Springtime is the ideal season to see Madison’s waterfalls in action. These pictures are from the Tunnel Falls trail #5 at Clifty Falls State Park. Enjoy and see the full set on our Facebook page. While you’re there, be sure to upload your photos of Madison Indiana.
Here is a snapshot of the park map with my route marked. Even at a slow pace with plenty of pictures this only took about an hour. These photos are roughly in the order that I took them.
This is a photo of the largest waterfall on this route. The drop is several stories and the sound filled the valley. It’s more impressive with more rain, but then the trails are too muddy for much hiking.
This trail overlooks a deep valley. The route seems safe, but I would hesitate to bring immature children on this section.
This was an interesting formation. I would call it a rock seat, but have not idea how it came to be. I was not daring enough to get much closer. The rock walls were towering overhead.
Here is a glimpse inside the tunnel. Foot traffic is not allowed past this point for preservation reasons. As you approach you can feel the cool air at the mouth of the tunnel.
While this is one of the shorter trials, you’ll need sure feet to navigate the many stone & wooden steps. Be sure to rest often and wear the right shoes.
I imagine a professional photographer could spend days just capturing the different scenes on this one short trail in Clifty Falls State Park. On my next trip I’ll bring along my video camera to offer more perspective on the trail.
Be sure to check out the other 40+ photos in this set on our Facebook page.
About Tony Kummer
The tunnel is closed because of a disease that bats are carrying. At times bats sleep and/or hibernate in the tunnel.