Why Stay Active Through the Seasons?

First, a quick reminder: staying active as the seasons change helps your body adapt — better circulation, joint flexibility, and mood. It keeps you connected to the land and the rhythms of nature. The crispness of fall, the quiet of winter, the freshness of spring — each season has its own invitation to explore.

Plus, Wabash County and its surroundings offer a wealth of accessible, local options — no long drives required.

Fall & Beyond: Scenery, Trails & Waterfalls

• Chase Waterfalls (or Their Echoes)

Waterfalls may quiet down in summer’s dry spells, but in spring, late fall, or after rain, several scenic cascades come alive around Wabash County:

• Charley Creek Falls (Wabash City Park)

Right in town, this waterfall flows over layered rock and is easy to reach. It’s ideal for a relaxed stroll with your family or camera. 

• Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run (ACRES Land Trust)

In Wabash County, this preserve features a gorge with vertical cliffs and small waterfalls. The 2-mile trail (round trip) gives you both scenic overlooks and creekside views. 

• Kokiwanee Nature Preserve (ACRES Land Trust)

This preserve includes multiple small falls — Kissing Falls, Frog Falls, Daisy Low Falls — along streams dropping into the Salamonie River valley. In wetter seasons, the cascades are more dramatic. 

• Salamonie River State Forest – “Three Falls Trail”

One of the more robust hiking options. The “Three Falls Trail” is a popular hike with multiple waterfalls along the route. 

Tips: Bring sturdy shoes (rocks get slippery), check recent rainfall, carry extra socks, and leave early in the day to avoid muddy trails later.

Trails & Cultural Routes to Explore

If you prefer steady footing over scrambling rocks, Wabash County offers several trails that blend nature, history, and culture.

The Wabash Cultural & Pedestrian Trails

The city of Wabash maintains roughly 2.5 miles of trails including:

• Wabash Cultural Trail (1.47 miles) — winds through downtown, passing the Honeywell Center, the Dr. James Ford Historic Home, the courthouse, and more. 
• Carroll Street Trail (0.33 miles) — connects to parks and recreational spots. 
• Paradise Spring Riverwalk Trail (0.82 miles loop) — combines historical context with riverside walking options. 
• Charley Creek Trail & Gardens (0.62 mi trail + 0.43 mi garden paths) — a peaceful creekside escape close to town. 

These are excellent for everyday walks, jogging, or even short bike rides during mild weather.

Wabash River Trail

This is a 7-mile paved corridor connecting Wabash and Lagro, running beside the river. It’s ideal for walking, biking, stroller rides, or a long run. 

Along the way, you’ll find “Eilts’ Hideaway” for eagle watching, river vistas, and boat launch points. 

Mississinewa Lake Trails

Mississinewa offers a variety of loops and difficulty levels:

Easy Access Trail (0.4 mi, paved loop)

Lost Sister Trail (2.5 mi, moderate)

Blue Heron Trail (2.5 mi, moderate, with scenic views of lake/dam)

Moswa Trail (1.5 mi, mixing meadow and woods)

Shepoconnah Trail (1.0 mi, meadows and forest transitions)

These trails are open year-round and shift in character with the seasons — from wildflower blooms to golden foliage to quiet winter landscapes.

Tips to Stay Motivated Year-Round

• Set small goals — finish a new trail each month.
• Bring a friend or group — accountability keeps you going.
• Mix it up — combine waterfall hikes, paved trails, and lake loops.
• Track progress — use an app or journal to log miles, photos, or wildlife spotted.
• Be flexible — weather changes; have backup plans (short walks, indoor exercise) so you don’t stall.

Wabash County is the perfect place for staying active through the seasons. From the roar of waterfalls after spring rains to golden autumn forest walks and winter’s quiet trails, we have it all right here. Lace up your shoes, grab a water bottle, and explore — season by season, hike by hike.