Falls & Potholes: A Warren County Day

A tall waterfall in the middle of town, a sandstone gorge full of potholes, and lunch in between.

Play this quest in Shenanigo

Two Warren County gems, 4 miles apart. Williamsport Falls drops about 90 feet off a ledge right beside downtown Williamsport; it is often called the tallest free-falling waterfall in Indiana (some sources say second tallest), and it flows best after rain or snowmelt. It can be a trickle in a dry spell. Fall Creek Gorge Nature Preserve, "the Potholes," is a small sandstone gorge where the creek has drilled round potholes into the rock. NICHES Land Trust has owned it since 2021.

Best from late morning to early afternoon, when the sun is high enough to reach into the gorge. Go a day or two after a good rain for the falls.

Williamsport Falls is a free town spot with an observation deck and a picnic shelter, so have lunch there. Fall Creek Gorge: Free. Open dawn to dusk, December through October; NICHES closes its preserves for all of November for a deer-control hunt. Leashed dogs are welcome. It is a state-dedicated nature preserve: no picnicking, fires or climbing, and it is illegal to pick, dig or take anything (plants, rocks, even mushrooms). Wading and swimming in the potholes are not allowed, and neither is going off trail. Park only in the gravel lot, not on the road. The two loop trails there are each under a mile.

Wear shoes with grip: sandstone is slick when wet. At the falls, stay on the deck and viewing paths. Do not climb the rocks, go behind the falls or stand at the top edge.

Play safe: stay on public sidewalks and grounds, respect private property, and never read your phone while driving.

Quest details

Play it free on your phone. Go in daylight, stay on public ground and follow local rules.