Climbing Near Santa Claus, Indiana

This wooded hidden gem offers a decent selection of boulders with surprisingly good rock quality! This crag is rather spread out across both sides of the Mitchell Creek. Comprised of powerhouse boulders north and south. PLEASE NOTE this land is used primarily for hunting, so wear bright colors. There are two main parking locations, both being small gravel pullouts on the side of Mitchells creek road to the south and kemp road to the west. From Mitchell Creek Road hike south towards the powerline clearing, from here either continue south across the creek and onto the ridge to access powerhouse boulders south or stay on the north side and go the the opposing ridge for powerhouse boulders north. From Kemp road head along Mitchell Creek for a ways until you reach rock outcroppings on the north side of the river, this is powerhouse boulders north. Cross the creek and you are at the south portion of the crag.

Sandstone boulders scattered throughout Southern Indiana.Please note: Parking is limited right now. There are gravel pull-offs, old forest roads, and some official parking. Please refer to Hoosier Hidden Hikes for more information. Drive past IU to French Lick. Most of areas are nearby.

Located inside Hoosier National Forest, most of Hemlock Cliffs is open to climbing. It's mentioned online that most of the rock is dirty or choss, but there are boulders and small walls scattered throughout Hoosier National Forest to be found. If you are in the area, please document it! I'm hoping that listing this area will make Indiana a little less barren. From Hatfield road look for National Forest sign for Hemlock cliffs. Follow gravel road approximately 1/2 mile to parking area at trailhead. Please follow no roadside parking signs on way in, as road is narrow. Plenty of room for parking in lot at trailhead. Posted sign advises where climbing and rappelling is prohibited along trail.