There’s a natural arch hiding in the forests of Covington, Indiana that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Tucked away within the woods of a nature preserve, this unique attraction is worth the hike.
Sandstone bluffs, winding creeks, wetlands, gorges, and savannas can all be found within this nature lovers’ dream. Check it out:
Dedicated as a nature preserve in 1972, the Portland Arch is part of a 435-acre area along the Wabash River in west-central Indiana that few Hoosiers know exists.
AllTrail/Chris VanDeWater
This natural arch is made of sandstone and has a creek running through it that comes off of the river. The arch is tall enough to walk through.
AllTrails/Daniel Puckett
A loop trail that extends less than a mile takes hikers past many different rock formations including cliffs and sandstone gorges.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
The nature preserve is full of wildlife as well as wildflowers and other plants like forestry, savannas, wetlands, prairies, and more.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
This diverse ecosystem is full of sights and sounds that are worth exploring no matter what part of the state you’re from. You may be surprised to find rock formations like this in the Hoosier State.
AllTrails/Shanna Davis
The natural arch is formed by the creek itself. The sandstone above has remained strong enough to hold for many years.
AllTrails/Shanna Davis
Parking is available near trail access points and information about the nature preserve is available around the area. You’ll feel like you’ve entered an entirely new state when you hike here.
AllTrails/Shanna Davis
If you’ve ever hiked to this incredibly wonderful natural arch, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
AllTrail/Chris VanDeWater
AllTrails/Daniel Puckett
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
AllTrails/Shanna Davis
For more like this, check out these nine most incredible natural wonders in Indiana that belong on your bucket list.
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Address: Portland Arch, Shawnee Township, IN 47932, USA
