Clifty Falls State Park, State park and waterfall area in Madison, Indiana
Clifty Falls State Park is a nature reserve with waterfalls near Madison in Indiana, spread across a forested canyon. Four separate falls drop over limestone rock walls, forming strong flows in spring and after rain, while they often shrink to thin streams during summer.
The area became a state park in 1920 to protect the waterfalls and rock formations from damage. Management built trails and facilities over the following decades so more people could safely visit the canyons.
The name comes from the steep limestone cliffs that define the land and give shape to the falls. Visitors today see many plants and animals native to this canyon environment, adapted to the damp conditions found here.
Trails cross uneven ground with steps and steep sections, so sturdy shoes and good fitness help. Those who want to see the falls at full strength should come in spring or after heavy rain.
Fossilized sea creatures lie in the rock of the stream beds, left from a time when this region was covered by a shallow ocean. These fossils remind visitors that the land looked completely different millions of years ago.
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