Tag Archive: clifty falls

Clifty Falls State Park Bridge – Madison Indiana

Clifty Falls State Park Bridge - Madison Indiana

Clifty Falls State Park, located near Madison, Indiana, is a stunning natural retreat known for its rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rich geological history. The park features four main waterfalls—Big Clifty, Little Clifty, Hoffman, and Tunnel Falls—each offering breathtaking views, especially after rainfall. With over 14 miles of scenic hiking trails, visitors can explore diverse terrains ranging from deep gorges to lush forests. The park is also home to remnants of the historic Clifty Creek Railroad Tunnel, which adds a touch of intrigue to its natural beauty. Popular activities include hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation, and seasonal events. Clifty Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Broughs Tunnel – Clifty Falls State Park – Madison, Indiana

Broughs Tunnel - Clifty Falls State Park - Madison, Indiana

Purchase Print

Brough’s Tunnel, located in Clifty Falls State Park, was an early attempt by the Madison, Indianapolis & Lafayette Railroad to build an alternate route between Madison and North Madison, Indiana. Their first route known as the Madison Railroad Incline Cut, was carved out of solid rock to bring the railroad down to the Ohio River in southern Indiana. However this route produced one of the steepest graded rail routes in the country, which proved problematic to maintain and operate. So in the 1850’s a plan was developed to bypass the Incline Cut.  One of the artifacts of this attempted bypass was the incomplete 600 ft Brough’s Tunnel, also known as Brough’s Folly. 

Today the tunnel is a playground for park visitors and in the winter hibernating bats.

Broughs Tunnel – Clifty Falls State Park – Madison, Indiana

Broughs Tunnel - Clifty Falls State Park - Madison, Indiana

Purchase Print

Brough’s Tunnel, located in Clifty Falls State Park, was an early attempt by the Madison, Indianapolis & Lafayette Railroad to build an alternate route between Madison and North Madison, Indiana. Their first route known as the Madison Railroad Incline Cut, was carved out of solid rock to bring the railroad down to the Ohio River in southern Indiana. However this route produced one of the steepest graded rail routes in the country, which proved problematic to maintain and operate. So in the 1850’s a plan was developed to bypass the Incline Cut. One of the artifacts of this attempted bypass was the incomplete 600 ft Brough’s Tunnel, also known as Brough’s Folly.

Today the tunnel is a playground for park visitors and in the winter hibernating bats.