A Hidden Natural Wonder
In the peaceful countryside of Wabash, Indiana, there’s a quiet natural retreat hiding a rare gem—a waterfall you can actually walk behind. Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run is not widely known, but it offers one of the most unique outdoor experiences in the state. Nestled in a 70-acre protected area, this preserve is home to dramatic cliffs, native prairie grasses, lush woodlands, and its stunning signature feature: a cascading waterfall tucked between rugged stone walls.
The Waterfall at Hathaway Preserve
The waterfall flows year-round, with the best visuals appearing after spring rains or during snowmelt. What makes it so remarkable isn’t just its beauty—but the fact that hikers can follow the trail to the base and stand behind the falling water. The curved stone ledge above creates a natural overhang, forming a shallow cavern-like recess that lets you view the falls from a completely different perspective.
Few waterfalls in Indiana allow this kind of up-close experience. Whether you’re listening to the water echo through the rock walls or feeling the cool mist on a hot day, walking behind the waterfall adds a layer of wonder rarely found on Midwest trails. It’s one thing to admire a waterfall from a distance, but quite another to experience it enveloping your senses from within its heart.
Natural Beauty Year-Round
The scenery at Hathaway changes dramatically with the seasons. In spring, blooming flowers carpet the trailsides while the waterfall reaches peak flow. Summer brings lush foliage and a shaded escape from the heat. In fall, the preserve is lit with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds as the trees turn. Even winter holds its own magic—frozen icicles cling to the cliffside, and snow softens the trail in a hushed stillness.
This seasonal variety makes the preserve worth visiting multiple times throughout the year, as each season offers a different version of the same peaceful landscape. Photographers in particular love coming back to capture the shifting play of light and color, while families enjoy returning to mark changing traditions with walks and picnics under the trees. No matter the time of year, a sense of tranquility and quiet exploration pervades the landscape.
Hiking Through the Preserve
Hathaway Preserve offers more than just a waterfall. Its well-maintained trails guide visitors through a landscape shaped by glacial activity and natural erosion. The trails are moderately easy and suitable for most hikers, with signage that provides helpful information about the area’s ecology and geology.
Highlights along the way include tall limestone cliffs, wildflower fields in the spring, and the trickling sounds of Ross Run cutting through the terrain. Wooden bridges and boardwalks help navigate wetter areas, and observation points offer great views of the surrounding ravine and waterfall basin. There are also benches tucked into scenic overlooks, perfect for relaxing or simply listening to the sounds of nature all around you.
A Natural Classroom
The preserve is managed by ACRES Land Trust, a nonprofit organization dedicated to land conservation and education. As a result, Hathaway is not only a beautiful place to walk but also a living classroom. Educational signage explains the ecosystem, highlighting native plants, geological formations, and the importance of preserving this type of habitat in Indiana.
Flora and Fauna
Throughout the preserve, you’ll encounter a range of plant species from moss-covered rocks and ferns to mature oak and hickory trees. Wildflowers like columbine, Dutchman’s breeches, and goldenrod appear seasonally. Birdwatchers can spot everything from warblers and sparrows to woodpeckers and hawks soaring overhead.
Amphibians like salamanders and frogs thrive near the creek, while squirrels and deer can often be seen darting through the brush. The natural diversity here provides endless opportunities for discovery with each visit. And for the patient observer, a keen eye might even spot turtles basking along the creek bed or spot rare butterflies floating amongst wild blossoms in the open prairie areas.
Tips for Visiting
The preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk and has no admission fee. There are no restroom facilities, so visitors should plan accordingly. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and the preserve is a carry-in, carry-out site—meaning trash and supplies should leave with you. Staying on designated trails helps protect the delicate ecosystem, especially near the waterfall and creek bed.
Bring good walking shoes, especially after rain when the trail may be slippery. A camera and binoculars are recommended for capturing wildlife and panoramic views. It’s wise to bring water and a light snack, so you can linger longer in the peaceful scenery. Cell service may be limited, so downloading a map beforehand or bringing a paper copy of directions is a good idea for first-time visitors.
Peaceful and Underrated
Part of Hathaway’s charm is its relative obscurity. While better-known Indiana parks may draw crowds, Hathaway Preserve remains a quiet, serene destination. Its remote feel is part of what makes walking behind its waterfall feel so special. There’s no rush, no noise—just the sound of falling water and wind through the trees.
It’s the kind of place that feels deeply personal, where you can take your time, reflect, and enjoy a part of Indiana that’s been thoughtfully preserved for future generations. Whether you’re seeking a solitary retreat, a peaceful family outing, or a new adventure with friends, Hathaway Preserve provides the perfect backdrop for exploration and renewal.
How to Get There
Hathaway Preserve is located a few miles southeast of downtown Wabash, just off a quiet rural road. A small gravel parking lot marks the entrance, with a trailhead sign providing a map and information. The walk to the waterfall is short but scenic, with gradual elevation changes and plenty of spots to stop and look around. Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the sights and sounds along the way—though many visitors find themselves lingering, reluctant to leave this hidden Indiana treasure.
Why It Belongs on Your List
If you’re looking for a new nature destination in Indiana, Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run deserves a spot on your list. It’s not flashy or crowded, but what it offers is something much rarer—a sense of calm and connection to the natural world. And of course, the unforgettable experience of standing behind a waterfall, feeling the mist on your face and the sound of water surrounding you.
Hathaway isn’t just a preserve—it’s a quiet adventure waiting to be discovered. The chance to step out of your routine, breathe deeply, and rediscover a sense of wonder is what makes this spot so special—and why, for so many, a single visit quickly turns into a cherished tradition. If you’re craving peace, beauty, and a glimpse of Indiana at its most magical, make sure Hathaway Preserve is on your list this year.
