Hiking in Brown County: Laura Hare Nature Preserve

If you’re searching for peaceful, rugged hiking in Brown County, Indiana—with fewer crowds than the State Park but still plenty of popularity—the Laura Hare Nature Preserve at Downey Hill belongs on your list.

Located just 15 minutes from Nashville, this 655-acre preserve is known for its quiet, scenic hiking trails, steep hills, glacial boulders, and traces of old homesteads hidden in the woods. It’s one of the most beautiful and rewarding Brown County hiking trails, offering the kind of deep-woods experience that makes you feel miles from everything.

Since moving to Brown County in 2016, I’ve hiked here often—and it remains one of my top picks for longer, more immersive hikes. Whether I’m walking solo in winter or catching wildflowers in spring, the landscape here is always worth the effort.

But don’t be fooled by the remote location: this trail system is popular, especially on weekends—and the small gravel parking lot fills up quickly. There are no overflow options, so it’s best to arrive early and have a backup hike in mind, just in case.

Still, if you’re ready to explore beyond the big-name trails and want a more rugged adventure with less foot traffic, Laura Hare delivers. The trail system offers a full 5+ mile loop, plus two shorter options (North and South Loops), so it’s easy to tailor your route.

What to Expect at the Laura Hare Nature Preserve

The Laura Hare Nature Preserve at Downey Hill offers one of the most immersive and scenic hiking experiences in Brown County. The 5.2-mile loop trail system winds through steep ridges, forested hollows, and quiet ravines, with plenty of elevation change and natural beauty along the way.

Unlike more developed trails in Brown County State Park, these trails feel wild and remote—with no restrooms and limited signage beyond the white trail blazes. The parking area is small and fills quickly, especially on weekends, so early arrival is strongly recommended.

The trail network forms a loop with two “shortcut” options:

• The North Loop is 2.9 miles and follows a more moderate route along ridgetops and valleys.
• The South Loop is 3.6 miles and includes more rugged terrain, elevation change, and remote-feeling forest.
• The Full Loop (5.2 miles) combines both for a full-circle hike around the preserve.

All trails are marked with white blazes, and the central portion briefly follows an old gravel road—providing a short moment of easy walking before the rugged terrain resumes. You’ll encounter glacial erratics (massive boulders left behind by ancient ice), seasonal ponds, and the remains of early homesteads—including daffodils that still bloom in spring.

These are natural-surface trails, often narrow, and can become slick after rain or snow. There’s no cell service in parts of the preserve, so it’s a good idea to download a GPS map (like on AllTrails) before heading out.

Whether you’ve got an hour or an entire morning, this preserve makes it easy to tailor your route, but it’s best suited for experienced hikers or confident beginners ready for a challenge.

North Loop Trail (Short Half)

• Distance: 2.9 miles (Loop)
• Approximate Time to Hike: 1 hr 10 min
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 313 ft
• 📍 Trailhead Location: Gravel lot off Valley Branch Road

What to Expect

The North Loop Trail forms the shorter half of the Laura Hare preserve and offers a rewarding hike through some of the most accessible terrain on the property. This route takes you along wooded ridgetops and down into quiet, shaded valleys—showcasing the preserve’s characteristic hills and hardwood forest without the more strenuous climbs of the southern section.

You’ll pass by seasonal ponds, mossy rock outcrops, and wide stretches of trail lined with beech, oak, and hickory. The terrain is still natural and occasionally narrow or root-covered, but more forgiving than the longer loops.

There are very limited directional signage on-site, so keep an eye out for the white blazes to stay on course. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, a downloaded map is highly recommended—cell service is limited in several areas.

You’ll begin and end near the gravel parking area, with a brief stretch of the route running along an old gravel roadbed to bring you back to the parking area at the end.

My Recommendation

The North Loop is my top pick when I want a manageable but peaceful hike—especially in winter or early spring when the views open up and the daffodils start to bloom in unexpected places. It’s a great choice for hikers easing into longer distances or exploring Laura Hare for the first time.

That said, it’s still a true hiking trail, not a flat path—so sturdy footwear is a must, and you’ll want to be prepared for a few short climbs and uneven footing, especially after rain.

South Loop Trail (Long Half)

• Distance: 3.6 miles (Loop)
• Approximate Time to Hike: 1 hr 30 min
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Rugged
• Elevation Gain: 484 ft
• 📍 Trailhead Location: Gravel lot off Valley Branch Road

What to Expect

The South Loop Trail is the more challenging half of the preserve and offers a longer, more rugged experience through the secluded hills of Brown County. This route ventures into the preserve’s most remote-feeling sections, with steep hills, narrow ridge trails, and deep hollows that feel far removed from town—even though you’re only minutes from Nashville.

Along the way, you’ll spot glacial erratics—massive boulders scattered by ancient ice—as well as remnants of early settler homesteads, some marked by blooming daffodils in spring. The terrain is varied and peaceful, with long stretches of quiet forest and short, punchy climbs that can be slick after rain or snow.

Expect uneven footing in spots, especially on the back half of the loop, and take your time navigating the switchbacks and root-covered slopes.

Like the rest of the preserve, trails are blazed in white but otherwise unsigned, so downloading a GPS map before your hike is strongly recommended.

My Recommendation

This is the loop I choose when I want solitude, elevation, and a longer workout—without committing to the full loop. It’s an especially good pick in early spring, when the forest floor bursts into bloom, or in late fall, when crisp air and open views make the climbs feel totally worth it.

Plan for a bit more time than you think you’ll need—while 3.6 miles might not sound long, the terrain makes it feel like a much bigger adventure. Definitely bring water and sturdy footwear, and be ready for a few steep spots near the end.

Full Loop Trail

• Distance: 5.2 miles (Loop)
• Approximate Time to Hike: 2 hours
• Trail Difficulty: Rugged
• Elevation Gain: 580 ft
• 📍 Trailhead Location: Gravel lot off Valley Branch Road

What to Expect

The Full Loop Trail at Laura Hare Nature Preserve combines the North and South Loops into one continuous 5.2-mile hike through some of the most beautiful—and wild-feeling—terrain in Brown County hiking.

This route takes you across rolling ridgelines, into forested hollows, and past all of the preserve’s standout features: glacial erratics, seasonal wetlands, historic homestead remnants, and long stretches of hardwood canopy. You’ll get two major climbs, a handful of moderate hills, and one short flat stretch along a gravel access road about halfway through.

There are limited trail junction signs and directional arrows, and cell signal can be hit or miss. Be sure to download a map in advance, and keep an eye on the white blazes—especially where old logging roads intersect the trail. It’s easy to veer off track for a moment if you’re not paying attention.

My Recommendation

If you’ve got the time and stamina, this is hands down one of the best long hikes in Brown County. I especially love this trail in late fall through early spring—cooler temps make the hills more manageable, and you get wide-open views through the leafless trees.

Allow at least 2 hours to hike the full loop at a steady pace (more if you like to stop for photos or breaks), and come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and layers. The hills add up fast, and footing can be slick after rain or frost.

If you’re looking for a rugged hike that still feels peaceful and uncrowded, this one checks all the boxes.

Accessibility and Amenities

Parking

The gravel parking lot at the trailhead is located off Valley Branch Road and can hold just 5–7 vehicles. There’s no overflow parking and no nearby lots, so it’s important to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak fall foliage.

Please be respectful of nearby residents—don’t park on Valley Branch Road or in the private driveway across from the preserve entrance. If the lot is full when you arrive, consider heading to Hitz-Rhodehamel or Brown County State Park as a backup plan.

Restrooms

There are no restrooms, water fountains, or trash cans at this trailhead. Plan accordingly and come prepared to pack out everything you bring in.

Restroom access is available in Nashville, just 10–15 minutes away, if needed before or after your hike.

Picnic Areas

There are no picnic tables, shelters, or designated rest areas within the preserve. If you’re planning to eat during your hike, bring a small blanket or just pause trailside in one of the scenic hollows or ridge spots.

The remote setting and quiet atmosphere make it a peaceful place to take a break—but be prepared for a fully self-supported experience.

Family-Friendliness and Accessibility

These trails are not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers, and the rugged terrain makes them better suited for older kids, teens, and adults who are comfortable with elevation change and narrow trails.

• The North Loop is the most manageable option if hiking with younger hikers.
• The South Loop and Full Loop are best for confident hikers ready for a longer, more rugged experience.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

What to Bring

This is a remote trailhead with no facilities, so it’s important to come prepared.

If you’re new to hiking or want a refresher on what to pack, I’ve put together a full breakdown of the gear I use most often (and what you don’t actually need to buy):
👉 Hiking Essentials for Beginners

Trail Tips and Etiquette

Rather than repeat the same tips in every trail post, I’ve created a separate guide covering the most important info for safe, responsible hiking in Brown County—including:

• What “Leave No Trace” looks like on our local trails
• Seasonal trail hazards (like ticks, slick slopes, and downed trees)
• Dog leash rules (and why they really matter here)
• When and where to expect crowds

👉 Hiking Tips for Beginners (Brown County + Beyond)

If it’s your first visit to the area—or your first hike in a while—it’s a helpful read before you hit the trail.

Best Times to Visit the Laura Hare Nature Preserve

Laura Hare is a year-round hiking destination, and one of the best spots in Brown County for a quiet, scenic hike. But because the parking lot is small, timing your visit well can make all the difference.

Here’s what to expect in each season:

• Winter – My favorite time to hike this trail. The bare trees open up beautiful ridgeline views, and cool temps make the elevation gain feel more manageable. If you’re lucky, you might spot frost flowers along the trail—tiny ice formations that pop up after a hard freeze. Watch for icy slopes and come prepared with traction if needed.
• Spring – Wildflowers and returning birdlife make this an especially magical time to explore. The forest comes alive with color and sound. Trails can be muddy and slick after rain, so wear waterproof boots.
• Summer – Dense tree cover keeps most of the trail shaded, but humidity and bugs can make summer hikes a bit intense. This is a good season to hike early in the day, pack extra water, and choose shorter loops if it’s hot.
• Fall – A stunner for fall color, especially on the ridges. Crisp air and leaf-peeping views make this one of the most popular times to visit. But that also means parking can be tricky—arrive early on weekends or plan a weekday visit if possible.

If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy Brown County in every season—including nearby trails, scenic drives, and festivals—you’ll find ideas here:
 👉When to Visit Brown County, Indiana (What to Expect in Every Season)

Nearby Attractions & Other Trails to Visit

If the parking lot at Laura Hare is full—or you’re simply looking to extend your adventure—there are several other great hiking options nearby:

• Nashville, Indiana: Just 10–15 minutes away, this small town is a perfect post-hike stop. Grab a coffee at the Daily Grind, shop local boutiques, or refuel with wood-fired pizza and beer at Big Woods. It’s also a great fallback if rain makes the trails too muddy for hiking.
• Hitz-Rodehamel Nature Preserve: A quieter alternative with easier terrain and more reliable parking. Located just outside Nashville, this preserve offers three loop options and year-round beauty with far fewer visitors. Great for a shorter hike or a family-friendly trail day.
• Trevlac Bluffs Nature Preserve: About 20 minutes away, Trevlac Bluffs features one of Indiana’s few eastern hemlock stands and a bluff-top view over Beanblossom Creek. Two trails here: a 0.7-mile bottomland loop and a 2.6-mile moderate hike to the bluff.
• Brown County State Park: Just 15 minutes from Laura Hare, this is the county’s most developed trail system, with restrooms, maps, and more than 20 miles of hiking trails. For a hike comparable to Laura Hare, I recommend:
  • Trail 8 (HHC Trail): A 3.5-mile loop with scenic ridges and views from Hesitation Point
  • Trail 9 (Taylor Ridge Trail): A quieter 3-mile hike through valleys and woodlands
  • Trail 11 (Vollmer Trail): A 5.5-mile out-and-back route with steep climbs and big forest payoffs

Now You’re Ready to Hike at Laura Hare Nature Preserve at Downey Hill!

If you’re looking to experience Brown County hiking beyond the crowds and paved paths, Laura Hare Nature Preserve at Downey Hill should be at the top of your list.

With rugged trails, incredible biodiversity, and quiet ridgelines, it’s one of my favorite places to reconnect with nature—and I think you’ll love it too.

Just be sure to arrive early, come prepared, and respect the space so others can enjoy it too.

Want more trail ideas and local tips? Join my free Facebook group: Things to Do in Brown County, Indiana. It’s a great place to ask questions, share photos, and plan your next visit.

Happy hiking, and maybe we’ll cross paths at Laura Hare someday!