I. Jug Rock
This strange rock formation is famous in Indiana nature books for being the "largest table-top rock formation east of the Mississippi River." It is also the inspiration for the local high school's basketball team that is spelled with an "x" for some reason. GO JUG ROX!
II. Flat Rock
This large, round, flat rock juts out straight into White River. The water flows right around it, often causing little whirlpools around the edges of the rock. Long ago it was home to an old factory that turned mussel shells into coat buttons. Nowadays it's a hotspot for family picnics and fishing.
III. Willow Valley Tunnel
This train tunnel was built in 1900, and is rumored to be haunted. Teenagers in town often dare each other to walk all the way through to the other end and back alone at night. Having unintelligently tried this myself, I can say that it is extremely surreal.
IV. Grassy Creek
My parents used to take my sister and me to this creek near our house to play in the water and skip rocks. Many playful childhood memories were made here!
V. Hindostan Falls
Although it does not amount to much, this small waterfall located near Flat Rock always attracts some attention. Maybe its simplicity is what makes it so beautiful.
VI. Deer Pen
It looks like an insignificant ridge in the woods, but legend has it this cliff has a chaotic history. Apparently, Native Americans living in Indiana long ago would drive herds of deer near the edge of the ridge. The deer would either fall off because they couldn't stop in time or get trapped and picked off one by one for food and resources.
VII. Fire Tower
Much like others of its kind, this old, raggedy tower located in the Martin State Forest just outside of Shoals was used decades ago by park rangers to spot wildfires. It is still open to the public and many people climb it for sight-seeing to this day.
(a sunset view from the top of the tower)
VIII. White River
Perhaps the most defining feature of Shoals, the White River East Fork is a source of livelihood for many living in this area. Kayaking and fishing are considered extremely important skills to possess by locals. Shoals even hosts an annual "Catfish Festival" honoring the plentiful abundance of catfish in this river, where they host a fishing contest and announce a beauty queen to kiss the biggest catfish!
IX. Pinnacle
This large cliff is rightfully known by locals as "the Pinnacle." It doesn't look like much from the bottom, but from the top is one of most gorgeous views you will ever find. It overlooks White River past a pasture and stretch of woods that is part of the Martin State Forest. I am most definitely biased, but this is my absolute favorite feature of Shoals. My first visit was unforgettable, and many of my most meaningful adolescent memories were made here. Pictures do it no justice.
(a view from the top of the Pinnacle)