Rolling hills and deep ravines shape the valley of Big Walnut Creek, where Big Walnut Preserve is located. The area has been designated a National Natural Landmark since 1968; more than 2,400 acres are protected jointly by The Nature Conservancy and the Indiana DNR Division of Nature Preserves. In spring, spring beauties, anemones, Virginia bluebells, and large-flowered trilliums bloom there. Cerulean warblers, worm-eating warblers, hooded warblers, and great blue herons are also found in the preserve. Bloom times may shift depending on the weather.
Landscapes and Wildlife Watching
Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area offers a different kind of landscape: across 2,175 acres, mature oak-hickory forests alternate with farmland. Together with the preserve, this area shows how varied natural spaces can be—from a valley with hills and ravines to woodland interspersed with fields.
There are also several ways to enjoy outdoor activities. People Pathways is a system of very flat, especially wide urban and rural trails more than 17 miles long, used for biking, running, and walking. The trail system connects Greencastle with neighboring communities. Route details may change as the trails develop; check the latest information before setting out.
Bridges, Trails, and History
The Cornstalk Covered Bridge crosses Cornstalk Creek as a single-span Burr arch truss bridge. Joseph A. Britton built it in 1917. Based on transportation and engineering criteria, the bridge is eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. The structure offers a chance to consider both its specific design and its place in transportation history.
Another trace of the past leads to DePauw Nature Park: from 1917 to 1977, a limestone quarry operated there by Hanson Aggregates. The Silo Mural makes a very different impression. Covering more than 80,000 square feet, it is considered Indiana’s largest mural. The Putnam County Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the county’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage. It also offers a varied annual program of events and educational activities.
Performing Arts, Music, and Culture
From June through September, Putnam County Playhouse presents two musicals and two plays over a 16-week period. Annual schedules may change, so check current dates before your visit. In downtown Greencastle, Music on the Square offers private lessons, classes for adult learners, and performances.
The Green Center for the Performing Arts hosts weekly performances, recitals, and lectures that visitors can attend. Schedules and ticket sales may change, so check the latest dates in advance. Whether you’re interested in music lessons, stage productions, or lectures, these offerings have different focuses and give culture enthusiasts several ideas to consider when planning a trip.
Getting Around the County
The Putnam County section of the National Road Heritage Trail is nearly 20 miles long. It is used for walking, running, and biking, as well as for fitness and nature-related events. Its length may change as additional sections are developed. People Pathways and this trail differ in both their described trail formats and the activities mentioned. The United States Bike Route 50 is another point of reference for cyclists at the state level: it runs east to west through Indiana, from Terre Haute to the Ohio border.
Putnam Pursuit invites residents and visitors to travel around the county and take photos at various locations. Participation details may change; check the latest information beforehand. Harris Sugar Bush offers tours by appointment throughout the year. Its log cabin shop sells regional foods, pancake and waffle mixes, maple cream, maple candies, and Harris syrup. Confirm the current arrangements for a tour before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Cloverdale, Greencastle, Kosciusko County, Harrison County, Hancock County, Clark, Spencer County, Bartholomew County.
For the broader travel overview: Indiana.
