November Trails Spotlight: Nine Penny Branch Nature Preserve

Nine Penny Branch Nature Preserve is a hidden gem in the Clark and Harrison counties area, particularly captivating during the autumn season when the rolling hills come alive with vibrant foliage. While nearby state forests like Clark State Forest and Harrison Crawford State Forest offer excellent hiking opportunities, the often overlooked Charlestown State Park boasts scenic and historic wonders, including the legend of the White Indians.

Adjacent to Charlestown State Park, the Nine Penny State Nature Preserve, covering 121 acres, is a charming off-the-beaten-path destination. Its name is linked to local lore, with stories about a man losing his day's wages or a carriage trail fee of nine cents. This preserve features a wooded landscape with various trees, limestone outcrops, a picturesque waterfall, and a ravine. It's also home to diverse wildlife, from insects like the green tiger beetle to woodland birds.

The area has historical significance as part of Clark's Grant, a land grant to George Rogers Clark and his men for their Revolutionary War efforts. Notably, the preserve offers an accessible 1.5-mile trail, making it one of the best options for hikers with physical disabilities among Indiana's nature preserves. The trail leads to an overlook with scenic views and continues to the waterfall, featuring ADA-compliant sections and cedar wood benches for resting.

For more adventurous hikers, a challenging trail continues across the creek, offering a scenic journey through the preserve. Access to Nine Penny Branch Nature Preserve is convenient, located just two and a half miles from Tunnel Mill Road in Charlestown.

This fall, consider a trip to the Falls of the Ohio segment of Indiana for a delightful excursion. Don't miss a side trip to Falls of the Ohio State Park in Clarksville, where geology and history merge in a unique way, providing a memorable experience for visitors.