Franklin County is well known for its amazing outdoor recreation. From canoeing and kayaking on the Whitewater River, to boating & fishing on Brookville Lake, to hiking and biking on one of our many different wooded trails, visitors from all over the U.S. visit each summer to enjoy the abundance of natural resources Franklin County offers. But what you may not realize is that many of Franklin County’s outdoor adventures continue throughout the winter months, too.
The Whitewater Canal Trail, with its nearly 10 miles of flat, crushed limestone surface, provides an opportunity for hikers and bikers to enjoy a walk or bike ride along the old Whitewater Canal towpath, and along much of the Whitewater River. Breath-taking vistas, historic locks, and wildlife including deer, turkey and even eagles can be spotted along the trail. The Whitewater Canal features trailheads in Laurel, Metamora, and the Yellowbank Trailhead along U.S. 52. Port-a-lets are provided at the Metamora and Yellowbank Trailheads.
The Brookville Lake trail system offers 41 miles of trails that wind through Whitewater State Park, Mounds State Recreation area, and around Brookville Lake. The trail system also includes multi-use trails maintained for rugged biking and hiking, including Garr Hill Trail (2.7 miles), Woodland Trail (4.4 miles), Eagle Trail (3.7 miles), and Bonwell Trail (1.6 miles). The trails are open for hiking and biking year-round.
Horseback riding is available all year at Salt Creek Ranch, on U.S. 52 in Metamora. Visitors can enjoy guided trail rides through some of the most picturesque trails in Franklin County. Privately owned and operated, Salt Creek Ranch boasts 700 acres of trail riding and 100 horses on site, and they are open seven days a week. Salt Creek Ranch often schedules special rides, so be sure to follow their Facebook page to stay informed.
Haspin Acres Off-Road & Motocross Park is a rugged adventure located in the hills of Franklin County. This family-friendly park is open every day of the year, including holidays! Many visitors enjoy riding multiple days at a time, so camping facilities are also available. All vehicles are welcome at Haspin Acres, including factory SUVs, rail buggies, modified trucks, ATVs, UTVs, quads, side by sides, rock bouncers, and dirt bikes. Children under 18 are welcome to ride, after a waiver form has been signed by a parent or legal guardian. Haspin Acres is truly a unique attraction in Franklin County and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year.
Wolf Creek Habitat is a non-profit organization whose mission is to care for our resident wolves and educate the public about the importance of these magnificent creatures. Wolf Creek Habitat does not charge an admission fee to observe the wolves from the 80 feet of observation deck, however as they are a non-profit, donations are appreciated. Adventuresome visitors may wish to interact with the wolves inside their enclosures accompanied by trained volunteers. The cost for these experiences are $50. Children may interact with the wolves provided they are 60 inches or taller. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Visitors are often entertained by a wolf howling session, and observing these magnificent creatures is unforgettable. Wolf Creek Habitat is open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. The wolves greatly enjoy the cold winter weather, but sometimes the volunteers do not. Check the website or Facebook page to confirm the habitat is open.
Visitors to Franklin County, Indiana who decide to come during the winter for any of these adventures will want a warm and cozy space to spend the evenings. Franklin County offers numerous overnight lodging options, from clean, comfy hotels to cabins to privately owned short-term vacation rentals (B&B’s). Check out our accommodations page for listings. And cold adventures call for hot meals, so be sure to take advantage of our amazing restaurants here in Franklin County to round out your winter adventure!
