It’s not a secret at all that we here at Only In Your State are big fans of waterfalls. And who could blame us? There’s just something objectively amazing about watching water… well, fall… and even in the winter, it’s a sight to behold. Enter the amazing Cataract Falls, located within the aptly-named Cataract Falls State Recreation Area; as Indiana’s largest waterfall by volume, it’s an incredible experience… but in the winter, once everything is frozen over (or even in the process of freezing over), it’s especially magical. Check out one of the most spellbinding frozen waterfalls in Indiana this winter for an awe-inspiring adventure… just be sure to dress warmly!
Cataract Falls actually consists of two separate cascades positioned almost exactly one mile apart.
Randy Wehrmeister/Google Local The Upper falls have a total drop of about 40 feet, and the Lower falls have a total drop of about 30 feet. Both are a formidable sight to behold, especially when you can hear the roar of the falls from quite a distance away.
Mill Creek - the flowing river from which the falls are born - tends to get quite cold during the winter months, despite the fact that it’s moving water.
Jingyu Liu/Google Local As a result, slowly, over the entire winter, Cataract Falls freezes over.
The entire process of its freezing is a spectacle.
Christian Collins/Flickr There’s something amazing to see at every stage of the falls turning to ice. It’s outrageously photogenic and completely underrated.
While most folks who hike the single trail to reach the falls do so in spring and summer (and often in autumn thanks to the splendid color), those who make the journey in winter are in for a treat.
Amanda Oliver/AllTrails Waterfalls are impressive as it is. There’s something about them that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring, but when these natural landmarks are quietened and stilled thanks to a growing layer of ice… it’s something else.
The frozen falls are outrageously photogenic, so make sure to either bring a camera or make sure your phone has a good charge on it.
Jordan Lacy/AllTrails You won’t be able to get enough of this incredible natural wonder, seemingly stopped in time until warm weather returns.
To reach the falls, you’ll want to embark upon the Cataract Falls via Ed Dailey Nature Trail.
Joseph Gage/Flickr This amazing hiking trail in Indiana is short and easy, and it leads to one of the most amazing things you’ll ever witness in the Midwest.
If you can’t get enough of the amazing frozen waterfalls in Indiana, don’t worry – there are many more in addition to Cataract Falls! Visit McCormick’s Creek State Park for some more frozen delights.
Randy Wehrmeister/Google Local
The Upper falls have a total drop of about 40 feet, and the Lower falls have a total drop of about 30 feet. Both are a formidable sight to behold, especially when you can hear the roar of the falls from quite a distance away.
Jingyu Liu/Google Local
As a result, slowly, over the entire winter, Cataract Falls freezes over.
Christian Collins/Flickr
There’s something amazing to see at every stage of the falls turning to ice. It’s outrageously photogenic and completely underrated.
Amanda Oliver/AllTrails
Waterfalls are impressive as it is. There’s something about them that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring, but when these natural landmarks are quietened and stilled thanks to a growing layer of ice… it’s something else.
Jordan Lacy/AllTrails
You won’t be able to get enough of this incredible natural wonder, seemingly stopped in time until warm weather returns.
Joseph Gage/Flickr
This amazing hiking trail in Indiana is short and easy, and it leads to one of the most amazing things you’ll ever witness in the Midwest.
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Address: Upper Cataract Falls, Jennings Township, IN 47460, USA
