Driving & riding tours
Heritage Trail
Heritage Trail, 812 273-6740, (http://www.heritagetrailo...). The Heritage Trail is a paved pathway for biking, hiking and rollerblading. The trail connects downtown Madison with the hilltop and overlooks the Ohio River. Open dawn to dusk 2002.
Chief White Eye Trail
Canaan, 812 839-4101. this drive through the rolling hills, farmland and forests of the eastern portion of jefferson county is magnificent during spring and fall. the kremer house 1850 located in canaan, is open by appointment and operated by the canaan restoration council.
John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail
John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail, Versailles, 812 686-6410 Ext 5, (http://www.hhhills.org/). The 185-mile trail follows the footsteps of Confederate Raider John Hunt Morgan's 2000 men and horses. Part of the route traverses Jefferson County and is highlighted with a campsight in Dupont. Indiana's most significant American Civil War event.
Madison Area Bicycle Club
Madison Area Bicycle Club, (http://www.madisonbicycle...). Whatever you want in a ride, it's all right here. Flat farmland. Challenging hills. Back roads and river views. Ridges and valleys. No wonder Outside Magazine said we have the best bike ride in Indiana. Rides, maps, special events. "Because riding should be fun!"
Ohio River Scenic Byway
Ohio River Scenic Byway, 800 559-2956, (http://www.ohioriversceni...). Designated a National Scenic Byway, this portion of the scenic drive hugs the river's edge among picturesque hills and valleys surrounding the majestic Ohio River. The Madison Area Convention and Visitors Bureau can assist you with additional information.
Parks
Clifty Falls State Park
Clifty Falls State Park, One mile west of town on IN 56 and 62, 812 273-8885, (http://www.state.in.us/dnr/). Whether you are an avid wildlife watcher, hiker, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, this magnificent state park has something for everyone. The park offers several picnic areas, a nature center offering seasonal programs, an Olympic Size swimming pool, RV and primitive campsites. Hikers can enjoy trails ranging from âeasyâ to âruggedâ and behold deeply cut gorges, sheer rock walls and plunging waterfalls. Open all year; admission charged Mar-Sept.
Heritage Trail
812 273-6740. the heritage trail is a paved pathway for biking, hiking and rollerblading. the trail connects downtown madison with the hilltop and overlooks the ohio river. open dawn to dusk 2002.
Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1661 w. jpg niblo rd. jefferson proving ground, 812 273-0783, (http://www.fws.gov/midwes...). big oaks nwr has been designated as a globally important bird area because of its value to migratory birds. located on 50,000 acres five miles north of madison on us 421 on the closed jefferson proving ground. portions of the refuge are open for wildlife observation, photography, fishing, hunting, interpretation, and environmental education. apr-nov: mon & fri, 2nd & 4th sats. mandatory briefing and access fee permit required $3 daily, $15 annual; fee waived for holders of migratory bird stamps, golden age pass, golden access pass, and golden eagle pass.
Madison City Park System
101 west main st., 812 265-8308. 12 city owned parks comprise part of the 220 acres of developed park/recreation properties. city parks include 5 picnic areas, 10 shelter houses, picnic tables, 2 barbecue pits, 5 playgrounds, 4 basketball courts, 4 baseball/softball diamonds, 2 tennis courts, 2 walking paths, volleyball courts and a lake. an 18 hole golf course, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and the new madison sports complex.
Riverfront Park
Vaughn dr. a favorite spot for a relaxing stroll, boat watching or attending one of several yearly events. public boat launching facilities. rejuvenated brick walk with benches, gazebo, viewing sites, and dedicated bricks. adjacent parks offer playground equipment, volleyball & basketball courts, shelter houses and picnic areas with tables.
Golf
Cozy Acres Golf Complex
Cozy Acres Golf Complex, 4040 N. Old SR 62, 812 273-3137, (http://www.cozyacresgolf.com/). 9-hole course, mini-golf course, driving range, pro shop.
Spring Hills Golf Course
Spring Hills Golf Course, 4766 W. Butler Falls Dr., Hanover, 812 866-4727, (http://www.springhillsgc.com/). 18-hole golf course, beautiful country setting, some of the best greens in Southern Indiana. Open daily, 6AM-6PM; off-season varies.
Sunrise Golf Course
2136 michigan rd., 812265-8334. 18-holes, par 72, 6245 yards. full service pro shop, motorized rental carts, snack bar & grill. hours: open daily feb 15 - dec 31.
Clifty Golf Range
3323 west in 56 jct 56/62, hanover, 812 273-9339. driving range, 18-hole miniature golf. fun for the whole family! open daily, mar-oct, 9am-10pm.
Water activities
Crystal Beach Pool
100 s. broadway st. 812 273-6268. built in 1938 by the works progress administration. historic bathhouse. half-moon shaped pool slopes from ankle deep to 9 feet. 12pm-5pm daily - memorial day to start of school.
Madison Public Boat Ramp
Foot of west st. and vaughn dr. located on the riverfront at the foot of west street. open year round. no charge.