Brown County State Park Winter Snow Hikes & Abe Martin Lodge

About this adventure

Nicknamed the 'Little Smokies' of the Midwest, Brown County State Park encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, deep forested ravines, and scenic vistas just south of the Indianapolis metro area. In the winter season, a quiet hush falls over the park as snow blankets the rolling topography, making it an extraordinary regional day trip for Central Indiana families. Visitors can drive up to Hesitation Point and the 90-foot West Lookout Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered ridges stretching across the horizon. After exploring scenic winter trails around Ogle Lake, families can warm up inside the historic timber-frame Abe Martin Lodge, where roaring stone fireplaces in the lobby offer cozy relaxation. Inside the lodge, the 12,000-square-foot indoor waterpark features a zero-depth water playground, water volleyball, and a twisting water slide that provides hours of tropical warmth. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Paved parking and scenic overlooks are fully accessible; Abe Martin Lodge is step-free with elevator service; paved trail sections around the lodge accommodate strollers. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Historic Abe Martin Lodge features comfortable leather sofas beside giant stone hearths, plus heated family restrooms with changing stations. • Age Suitability: All ages welcome; scenic drives and gentle nature trails suit families with young children, while the indoor waterpark delights toddlers to teens. • Sensory Tips: Grand, sweeping winter vistas and peaceful woodland acoustics; the lodge lobby provides a warm, fragrant cedar-wood sensory haven from the winter cold.