Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – Story Inn and Village loop from Elkinsville
Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – Story Inn and Village loop from Elkinsville
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(6269)
15,864
riders
Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – Story Inn and Village loop from Elkinsville
03:37
60.4km
580m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
22 m
Nebo Ridge Trail North Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
1.20 km
Wilkerson Hill
Highlight • Summit
15.2 km
Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
53.7 km
Hurley Hill
Highlight • Summit
55.5 km
Story Inn and Village
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
60.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
27.8 km
25.7 km
2.62 km
2.50 km
1.77 km
115 m
Surfaces
35.8 km
17.1 km
7.45 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (270 m)
Lowest point (170 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 11 July
27°C
21°C
79 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a substantial gravel biking challenge in Indiana, the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – Story Inn and Village loop from Elkinsville is definitely worth your time. This difficult 37.5-mile (60.4 km) route packs in 1919 feet (585 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete. It's a rewarding day out for experienced riders with very good fitness, offering a deep dive into the Hoosier National Forest.
What to expect on Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – Story Inn and Village loop from Elkinsville
This route guides you through the heart of the Hoosier National Forest, where you'll encounter a landscape of rolling hills and dense hardwood forests. The terrain is primarily unpaved gravel roads, which can range from well-maintained to rough and potentially muddy, especially in areas shared with horses. The standout feature is the 110-foot Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower, a historic structure offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles over the Charles C. Deam Wilderness and Lake Monroe. Later in the ride, you'll pass the historic Story Inn, a unique landmark. This journey demands sustained effort due to its significant elevation gain and varied surfaces, making it ideal for advanced gravel bikers.
Planning your visit
The loop begins in Elkinsville, a small community often described as a ghost town, which provides a quiet starting point. Parking is generally available here, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, particularly on pleasant weekend mornings. The Hoosier National Forest is beautiful in any season; spring and early summer offer lush greenery and more prominent seasonal waterfalls, while autumn brings vibrant fall foliage. Be prepared for varied conditions on the gravel roads, and carry enough water and supplies for the duration of this challenging ride.
Trail details
- Distance: 37.5 miles (60.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1919 feet (585 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 36 minutes
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