Matthiessen State Park was named for prominent industrialist and philanthropist Frederick William Matthiessen who bought the lands in the late 19th century. Over 1700 acres, the park features canyons and streams with picturesque waterfalls, all of which direct their flow towards the Vermillion River.

Colorful sandstone walls, tall bluffs, and forests of bluffs and cedar make this destination popular with hikers who wish to enjoy nature’s bounty. Frogs, toads, and salamanders populate the streams, and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, indigo buntings, cliff swallows, and red-tailed hawks are in large number throughout the park. There are five miles of hiking trails with extensive stairs, which make them inadvisable for those with mobility issues. There is another nine miles of mountain biking and equestrian trails. Near the park entrance there are restrooms and picnic tables.

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