Clifty Falls State Park
Where Clifty Creek carved a 300-foot canyon through ancient limestone, Clifty Falls State Park showcases four spectacular waterfalls—the tallest plunging 83 feet into the mist below. This 1,416-acre wilderness near the historic town of Madison offers some of Indiana’s most dramatic and rugged scenery.
Established in 1920 when citizens of Madison donated the land to preserve these natural treasures, Clifty Falls delivers adventure for all skill levels. Explore over 12 miles of trails from easy rim walks to challenging canyon descents, discover an abandoned 600-foot railroad tunnel, and witness waterfalls at their peak between December and June.
Perched above the Ohio River—itself carved by the same glacial forces that created this canyon—Clifty Falls is southern Indiana’s crown jewel.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Madison, Jefferson County, Indiana |
| 🗺️ Region | Ohio River Valley |
| 📐 Total Area | 1,416 acres |
| 💦 Waterfalls | 4 major (83 ft tallest) |
| 🥾 Trail Miles | 12+ miles |
| 📞 Phone | (812) 273-8885 |
The Waterfalls
Clifty Falls is famous for its four major waterfalls—best viewed from December through June when water flow is at its peak.
| Waterfall | Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 💦 Tunnel Falls | 83 feet | Tallest in the park! |
| 💦 Hoffman Falls | 78 feet | Second tallest |
| 💦 Big Clifty Falls | 60 feet | Park namesake |
| 💦 Little Clifty Falls | 60 feet | Near Big Clifty |
⚠️ Important: Swimming at the waterfalls is prohibited for safety reasons. Numerous minor falls are also scattered throughout the park.
Best Time to Visit
- 💧 December – June: Peak waterfall season (best flow!)
- 🍂 Winter/Early Spring: Best canyon views before foliage
- 🏜️ July – November: Creek bed hiking when water is low
Clifty Creek Canyon
The park’s dramatic Clifty Creek Canyon runs the entire north-south length of the park, descending from approximately 800 feet above sea level at the rim to 500 feet at the Ohio River valley floor.
- 🏔️ Depth: ~300 feet
- 🧊 Formation: Glacial meltwaters carved this canyon
- 🌊 Creek descent: 750 feet before the falls
- 🍂 Best views: Winter & early spring (before leaves)
Hiking Trails
| Trail Type | Features |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Rim Trails | Easy walks with canyon overlooks |
| ⛰️ Canyon Trails | Rugged descents with handrails & steps |
| 💦 Waterfall Trails | Access to all four major falls |
| 🏜️ Creek Bed Hiking | Available July–November (low water) |
📝 Note: Off-trail hiking is prohibited to protect the environment and ensure safety. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to rugged.
The Railroad Tunnel
One of Clifty Falls’ hidden treasures is a 600-foot abandoned railroad tunnel from a 19th-century railroad project that was never completed. Bring a flashlight and explore this mysterious piece of Indiana history!
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Campground | Multiple sites available |
| ⚡ Hookups | Electric available |
| 🚿 Facilities | Modern restrooms & showers |
| 🏕️ Tent Camping | Welcome |
| 📅 Reservations | Available via Reserve America |
Nature Center
- 🦎 Educational exhibits on local wildlife & geology
- 📆 Programs: Seasonal events and guided hikes
- ⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM daily
Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfalls are at Clifty Falls State Park?
Clifty Falls has four major waterfalls: Tunnel Falls (83 ft), Hoffman Falls (78 ft), Big Clifty Falls (60 ft), and Little Clifty Falls (60 ft). Numerous minor falls are also scattered throughout the park. The best time to see them at peak flow is December through June.
When is the best time to visit Clifty Falls?
For waterfall viewing, December through June offers the best water flow. Winter and early spring provide the best canyon views before foliage. July through November, when water levels are lower, allows for unique creek bed hiking along the spectacular stone streambed.
Can you swim at the waterfalls?
No—swimming at the waterfalls is prohibited for safety reasons. The rocky terrain, unpredictable water levels, and dangerous currents make swimming extremely hazardous.
What is the railroad tunnel at Clifty Falls?
The park contains a 600-foot abandoned railroad tunnel from an unfinished 19th-century railroad project. You can explore it with a flashlight! It’s one of Indiana’s unique historical treasures hidden within a state park.
How difficult are the trails at Clifty Falls?
Trails range from easy rim walks with overlooks to rugged canyon descents with handrails and steps. Over 12 miles of trails are available. Some trails are challenging—wear sturdy footwear and use caution on steep sections. Off-trail hiking is not permitted.
Where is Clifty Falls State Park located?
Clifty Falls is located near Madison, Indiana in Jefferson County, overlooking the Ohio River. It’s approximately 1 hour from Louisville, KY and 1.5 hours from Indianapolis. Entry fee is around $7 per vehicle.
💦 Where Waterfalls Plunge Into Glacial Canyons
Four stunning waterfalls, a 300-foot canyon, 12+ miles of trails, and a mysterious railroad tunnel—Clifty Falls is Indiana’s most dramatic natural landscape. Best visited December through June for peak waterfall flow!
