The park's stone structures, including walls and bridges, were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s.
Clifty Falls was once considered as a site for a railway tunnel, the remnants of which are still visible near the north end of the park.
The park contains the Clifty Canyon State Nature Preserve, which protects diverse cliffside flora.
During winter, the park's waterfalls are known to form large, hanging ice columns.
The bedrock layers contain fossilized remains from an ancient sea that covered the region 400 million years ago.
Clifty Falls State Park is located in Madison, Indiana, featuring four major waterfalls fed by Clifty Creek and its tributaries. The park encompasses rugged canyon landscapes carved into Silurian and Devonian limestone and shale bedrock. Visitors can access over 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to very rugged classifications. The Clifty Inn provides onsite lodging overlooking the Ohio River valley. Geological formations within the park contain a significant density of fossils, particularly brachiopods and corals. The park is managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and maintains a dedicated nature center. The topography is defined by deep gorges, some reaching 200 feet in depth. Trails like Trail 2 and Trail 8 offer direct access to the base of the primary waterfalls.
The observation deck near the top of Big Clifty Falls.
Wear sturdy, high-traction hiking boots, as trails can be slick and involve crossing creek beds.
Check the park's trail status board at the entrance, as heavy rain frequently causes temporary closures of gorge-level paths.
Carry a walking stick to navigate the steep, uneven limestone stairs found on many trails.
Attempting to climb the canyon walls or ignoring safety signs regarding slippery, unstable rocks.
Open year-round; the park entrance and trails remain accessible, but specific facilities may have limited availability during winter months.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystem and ensure personal safety; do not collect fossils or rocks.
