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Shirley Creek Trail

This 19.4 mile trail is designated for use by hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. This system incorporates shady trails with scenic views, interesting rock formations and a variety of terrain. Loops within loops yield many options for varying lengths for a ride or a hike, most is single-track.

General Information

year-round

A trail permit is required for mountain bike and horse back riders age 17 and older. Permits are available from our office and local vendors.

Water is available for livestock but not tested as safe for human consumption.

Motorized travel is not permitted.

Getting There

Directions

From Bloomington: Take State Road 37 south approximately 25 miles to US 50 just south of Bedford. Take US Highway 50 west 9.6 miles to the intersection of Highways 50 and 60. Continue going west on Highway 50, 0.1 miles to the first county road on the left. Turn left on this county road and immediately cross some railroad tracks. Drive 0.9 to County Road 825 West; turn right. Drive 3.4 miles to the split in the road. Take the left split (CR 810 north) and pass Bonds Chapel and a cemetery on the right. Drive 1.3 miles to CR 775. Turn right on CR 775 and drive 1.2 miles to the "Shirley Creek Trailhead" sign on the left. Turn left into the property and follow the road to the campgrounds. From downtown Orleans: Go south on IN 37/Maple Street from IN 337/Washington for 2 blocks. Turn west onto Vincennes Street. This road changes to CR 700N outside the Orleans town limits, then to a variety of different numbers as it winds through the countryside. Stay on this road then about 10 miles west of town, you'll come to CR 775W; turn left. (This intersection is Hindostan, or Hindustan, and appears on some old maps) There's a Forest Service sign for Shirley Creek here. It's just over 1 mile to the gravel road to the horse camp. Turn left onto this road. Go to the end and park in the horse camp. The trail leaves from that parking loop. GPS Coordinates: Lat - 38o 38' 58.147"N, Long - 86o 35' 51.174"W

Additional Information

Operated By

USFS, Brownstown Ranger District, 811 Constitution Avenue, Bedford, IN 47421; Phone: 812-275-5987

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated June 6, 2025