Discover hiking happiness at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience

Indiana DNR Release:

There is much more to hiking than simply placing one foot in front of the other. Learn how to make the most of this enjoyable and readily available outdoor activity at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience, Sept, 26–27.

Hiking is an affordable and accessible means of physical fitness and outdoor recreation most Hoosiers can participate in. The Hoosier Hiking Council, Indianapolis Hiking Club
and members of the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation will be on hand at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience to teach participants about hiking in Indiana.

“We hope to teach participants the details of hiking. We not only want to inform people about where to hike, but also, we hope to educate participants about equipment, preparation, social advantages, and leadership on the trail,” said Ron Higdon, director of the Indianapolis Hiking Club.

Indiana is home to thousands of miles of established hiking trails, with more on the way. In 2007, Gov. Mitch Daniels outlined a plan to have a trail within 15 minutes of every Hoosier home by 2017.

“Hiking is the simplest and easiest way for people to enjoy the outdoors,” said Dale Brier of the Division of Outdoor Recreation. “Indiana has trails that can suit almost any need or skill level. From short, shaded walks in the woods, miles of paved rail-trails, to rugged backcountry hikes, Indiana has it all. You’ll even find yourself healthier and happier at the end of the day.”

The Hoosier Outdoor Experience is a family-friendly event that is the first of its kind in Indiana. Unlike traditional trade shows, visitors will be able to enjoy hands-on experiences in a wide range of outdoor activities, such as fly fishing, target shooting, archery, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, camping and much more.

The Hoosier Outdoor Experience is presented by the Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation, with sponsorship support from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Ball Brothers Foundation, WXIN-Fox 59, Indianapolis, and numerous other sponsors.

Parking, admission, activities, demonstrations and seminars are free to the public, but online registration is required. To register, go to hoosieroutdoorexperience.IN.gov and click on the yellow registration icon.

Event updates can be found at hoosieroutdoorexperience.IN.gov or on Facebook and Twitter.