Turkey Run Gorges at High Noon
A swinging bridge, a wedge of rock, the Punch Bowl pothole and an inn that charged $2.50 a day.
Play this quest in ShenanigoTurkey Run is famous, but most visitors never read its story. This quest crosses the suspension bridge over Sugar Creek into sandstone gorges: Wedge Rock, Rocky Hollow and the Punch Bowl, a pothole scoured out by glacial meltwater. Then it ends at the marker in front of the 1919 Turkey Run Inn.
Best from late morning to early afternoon, when the sun gets down into the narrow gorges. Arrive early on weekends, because it is a busy park.
Entrance fee: $7 per car with Indiana plates, $15 out of state. Picnic areas and shelters are near the Inn. Leashed dogs are allowed, but Trail 3 is no place for them. Trail 3 is rated very rugged, with ladders and slick streambed walking. The DNR suggests other trails for small children, pets or anyone with medical conditions. If that's you, enjoy the bridge, Wedge Rock and the Inn and skip the ladders. Creek swimming and wading are prohibited. Trails can be closed at high water, so check the trail board.
Play safe: stay on public sidewalks and grounds, respect private property, and never read your phone while driving.
Quest details
- Where: Turkey Run State Park, near Marshall
- Time: About 180 minutes
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Steps: 8
- Cost: State park entrance: $7 per car (Indiana plates), $15 out of state
Play it free on your phone. Go in daylight, stay on public ground and follow local rules.