Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Shanty Falls
Shanty Falls is a small, picturesque waterfall tucked into the quiet woodlands of Indiana. Its modest drop and leafy surroundings make it a peaceful destination for anyone looking to escape crowds and enjoy a short nature outing. The falls’ lesser-known status means you’ll often find solitude here, ideal for a quick photography stop or a calm moment by the water. The approach to Shanty Falls is invitingly brief: the trail to the falls is 0.4 miles with about 50 feet of elevation gain, rated easy and configured as an out-and-back. That short distance makes it a good choice for families, beginner hikers, or anyone wanting a quick outdoor refresh. Trails in this area are natural and can be uneven in spots, so bring sturdy footwear and expect a simple, low-effort ramble through native forest.
The Setting
Shanty Falls sits at 676 feet along the Wabash River, in the foothills of Indiana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 0.4 miles in length with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: easy. There is no official USFS trail surface/grade/class data available for this route, but the hike is short with a gentle overall grade. Visitors should be prepared for natural tread and occasional uneven footing—sturdy shoes are recommended. The route is straightforward and suitable for most abilities, offering a quick, pleasant walk to the waterfall.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful, natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The flow of the waterfall may vary depending on recent rainfall.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Shanty Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Shanty Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain on the trail. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
706 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 102 years of record
3.94 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Wabash hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Shanty Falls is located in a rural area of Indiana. Access may require navigating unpaved roads or trails. Specific directions are not widely documented, so visitors should research local maps or consult with nearby park offices for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated trailheads if available.
Elevation
676 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.788376° N, -85.862209° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the area may not have clear signage. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become muddy or slippery after rain.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn by Hilton Wabash
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Wabash by IHG
Home2 Suites By Hilton Logansport
Downtown 2 Bedroom Cottage, Sleeps 6, Walking Distance to Honeywell, Downtown Restaurants, Shopping
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Miami
7.6 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Mississinewa Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in the region.
Wildlife
The area may be home to typical Indiana wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Shanty Falls
Writing about Shanty Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.