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Deam Wilderness 19 Mile Loop Slackpack


Highlights:

Pretty valleys with quiet streams, views of Lake Monroe from high ridgetops.
Near:Bloomington, IN
Scenery:
Distance:19 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:3200 ft
Hike Time:12 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Bush wacking
HikeType:Loop



Summary: This is a hike of a combination of old and current trails in the Deam Wilderness Area. The trail condition varies from good in most places on current trails to barely visible/bushwhacking on old trails. There are stream crossings where your feet will get wet during most of the year. There are pretty valleys along these streams going through nice hardwood and pine forests. There are fairly large hills to climb, but the grade is moderate. Views of Lake Monroe can be had from the ridgetops when the leaves are off. I recommend hiking this route winter, spring, and fall. During the summer, stay on the more maintained and used trails to avoid greenbriars and poison ivy.
Trailhead: From Bloomington Indiana, proceed South on State Road 446. A few miles after crossing the causeway of Lake Monroe, look for the sign for the Charles Deam Wilderness Area on the Eastside of SR446. Turn East at this sign onto Tower Ridge Road and proceed on gravel road a few miles until the Grubb Ridge Trailhead is on the left. There is overflow parking on the right also. The loop hike can also be started by parking at the firetower parking area further down the same road. (Lat:39.02037 Lon:-86.2477)
Trail Guides for Deam Wilderness 19 Mile Loop Slackpack:
Trails Illustrated #770 Hoosier National Forest
by National Geographic  (National Geographic)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Hoosier National Forest, Bedford Indiana Office 812-275-5987
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Patrick J. Eaton, who has posted  3 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Jordan on 6/29/2007
This is a great trail for Indiana. The trails are well maintained, and there are great camping areas. What i liked the most about Deam was the backcountry feel that you get. There is not any noise pollution or light pollution, it makes for a great backcounrty experience. Although Indiana lacks somewhat in breathtaking mountain scapses, Deam does offer a nice view of Lake Monroe. It also has around 15 or so ponds that make for an adventure to locate and find! Enjoy Gods creation.

Reviewed by Jerry on 9/13/2005
I do 18th Century re-enacting, and this place is the Best in Indiana to do such.....Excellent time, and will be back again.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Indiana Hiking, Indiana Trails, Indiana Hikes, Monroe County Hiking, Monroe County Trails, Monroe County Hikes

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