The North Entrance of Brown County State Park, located off State Road 46 East just east of Nashville, Indiana, is a unique and picturesque gateway to one of Indiana’s most beloved outdoor destinations. This historic entrance features a charming covered bridge that adds to the park’s rustic charm, but also comes with some important restrictions for visitors to be aware of.
The Covered Bridge at the North Entrance
The centerpiece of the North Entrance is the park’s historic covered bridge, which was built in 1880 and has stood the test of time for over 140 years. This beautiful structure features the classic wooden construction and gabled roof design that is characteristic of covered bridges from the 19th century.
However, the North Entrance covered bridge does come with some important limitations that visitors need to keep in mind:
| Specification | Limit |
|---|---|
| Clearance | 9 feet |
| Weight Limit | 3 tons |
Due to these restrictions, the North Entrance is not accessible for RVs, vehicles towing trailers, or other oversized/overweight vehicles. Visitors arriving in these types of larger vehicles will need to use the West Gate Entrance on State Road 46, located about 2 miles west of Nashville.
Accessing the North Entrance
The North Entrance of Brown County State Park is located off State Road 46 East, just a few miles east of the town of Nashville. This entrance provides direct access to the park’s northern section, including popular hiking trails like the Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve and the Limekiln Trail.
To reach the North Entrance, simply follow State Road 46 East from Nashville for a few miles until you see the signs for the entrance on your right. The covered bridge and parking area will be immediately visible as you approach.
It’s important to note that the North Entrance is the only access point for this section of the park. Visitors who need to use the West Gate Entrance due to vehicle size restrictions will have to drive an extra 2 miles to reach the northern trails and facilities.
Exploring the North Section of Brown County State Park
Once you’ve passed through the historic covered bridge at the North Entrance, you’ll be greeted with a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. This section of the park is home to some of its most popular hiking trails, including:
- Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve: A 2-mile loop trail that winds through a scenic ravine and past several waterfalls.
- Limekiln Trail: A moderate 3.5-mile trail that leads hikers through dense forests and past the remnants of an old limekiln.
- Hesitation Point Trail: A challenging 5-mile loop that offers panoramic views from the park’s highest point.
In addition to hiking, the northern section of Brown County State Park also features several picnic areas, a nature center, and access to the park’s extensive network of mountain biking trails. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the park’s streams and lakes, or simply take in the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Tips for Visiting the North Entrance
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when visiting the North Entrance of Brown County State Park:
- Plan Ahead: Be sure to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the current status of the covered bridge and any potential closures or restrictions.
- Pack Light: With the 9-foot clearance and 3-ton weight limit, you’ll want to avoid bringing any oversized or heavy gear that could get stuck in the bridge.
- Arrive Early: The North Entrance can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
- Explore the Trails: Don’t just pass through the covered bridge – take some time to explore the beautiful hiking trails and natural areas in the northern section of the park.
- Respect the Bridge: The covered bridge is a historic landmark, so be sure to treat it with care and respect during your visit.
Conclusion
The North Entrance of Brown County State Park is a unique and picturesque gateway to one of Indiana’s most beloved outdoor destinations. While the historic covered bridge comes with some important size and weight restrictions, it’s well worth a visit for those looking to explore the park’s stunning natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the charm of a classic covered bridge, the North Entrance is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
- https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/brown-county-state-park/
- https://www.browncountystatepark.net/location.htm
- https://www.browncountystatepark.net