Williams-to-Shoals, Indiana Self-Guided Tour Destination
Activities: Sight Seeing Drive--Rock Formations; Camping; Fishing; Hiking; Rock Cimbing; Boating
Activities: Sight Seeing Drive--Rock Formations; Camping; Fishing; Hiking; Rock Cimbing; Boating
Williams is located about two hours south of Indianapolis. Take SR 37 south to Bedford, Indiana. Turn west on SR 158 and then south on SR 450 to Williams. The trip to Williams is filled with lush forest lands, beautiful hillside vistas of the region. At Williams, you can access the White River for fishing, camping, picnics and dam viewing. There is also a covered bridge located just outside of town crossing the White River. Take the Huron-Williams Road across the Williams Covered Bridge to Huron. Turn right on SR 50 West to the entrance of Martin State Forest. There are fishing, hiking, camping and picnic areas located there. The trails are moderately rugged hilly trails. There are three small 3-4-acre lakes for fishing.
Shoals - Leaving Martin State Forest, head west on SR 50 to Shoals. Shoals is located on the White River and famous for Jug Rock and its sandstone outcroppings along the river. Take caution during heavy rains and high water as you cross the bridge on SR 50 heading west and turn right on Poplar Street and then right again onto West River Road. This unique road hugs the river on one side and sandstone rock outcrops and caves will be on your left. It is narrow and has tendencies to flood in heavy rain. There is a house built into the rocks, which is a picture worth taking. The road widens and becomes gravel n a wooded area. More rock outcrops are visible on the left. Native Americans used this area for village sites in prehistoric times. Indiana University has excavated sites in the region. Follow West River Road until it comes to a T. Turn right and follow the gravel road until reaching the next road to the left. Turn left and it will take you back to SR 450. Turn right on SR 450 to head back to Williams and Bedford.
Canoe The White River from Williams to Shoals. The 19.5-mile section between Williams Dam and Shoals take-out is a seven hour float. This section of the river passes by LaSalle Spring, a sulfur water spring. In addition, a large eagle's nest (approx. 6 feet in diameter) can be seen near the islands. The put-in is located at the Williams Dam State Fishing Area on State Road 450. Put-in facilities include a concrete ramp, campgrounds and parking lots. The riffles below may necessitate a portage on the left in lower water. The take out point in Shoals is at the third street (1 1/2 blocks before the river) where you turn right and then veer left at the Y intersection on East River Road as you leave town. Heading north on East River Road, proceed about 1 1/2 miles to the river. The road runs adjacent to the river providing several steep but passable access sites. Permission must be gained before trespassing on private property and there is limited parking along the road. Side Note: To continue back to Martin State Forest on back roads. Once you load your gear continue on East River Road to the intersection. Turn Right on CR91. At the next intersection, turn left on CR 95 and follow it east to the next intersection. Turn right on CR 93 south and this will take you back to Martin State Forest and SR 50.
Rock Climbing may be possible on several cliffs on West River Road including Rock House and McBride's Bluff overlooking the White River. Check GPS cooridinates of N 38.726439 and W -86.780277.
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