Selmier State Forest Loop via Summerfield Cemetery

This easy loop is a quiet walk through Indiana’s smallest state forest—mostly level, mostly shaded, and ideal when you want a short outing that still feels “woods-y.” Expect roughly 5 km (3.1 mi) with about 0 m (0 ft) of total climbing, using a mix of narrow forest paths and a few wider, mowed or old access corridors.

Getting to the start (car + public transport realities)

By car: The most reliable “anchor” address for the forest is the property office area at Selmier State Forest, 905 E County Road 350 N, North Vernon, IN 47265. (in.gov)
From North Vernon, the forest is about 2 miles (3.2 km) northeast on/near County Road 350 N. (in.gov) Parking is small and simple—arrive earlier on pleasant weekends or during hunting season.

By public transport: There isn’t dependable public transit that drops you at the forest entrance. The practical approach is to get to North Vernon, Indiana (regional bus options vary and can be limited), then use a rideshare/taxi for the last few miles to the forest entrance/parking. Plan for weak cell coverage in the woods and arrange your return ride in advance if possible.

Nearest landmark for the route theme: The loop’s name references Summerfield Cemetery, which is shown on the official forest trail map near the forest boundary. (in.gov) If you’re using HiiKER, search for “Selmier State Forest” and “Summerfield Cemetery” to confirm you’re starting at the correct parking area and not on a nearby private drive.

Before you step off, note the forest is day-use only (open sunrise to sunset) and has no restrooms, no camping, no picnic facilities, and no boat ramp—bring what you need and pack out all trash. (in.gov)

What the walk feels like (surface, grade, and pacing)

From the parking area, the trail network quickly slips into mixed woods. Because the terrain here is gentle, the “effort” is less about hills and more about footing: after rain, low spots can hold water and leaf litter can hide roots. In dry conditions, it’s a straightforward stroll at an easy pace—most hikers finish in 60–90 minutes, depending on stops.

You’ll likely pass a few signed intersections; the state forest notes that intersection markers are installed to help hikers navigate the interior. (in.gov) Even so, short trail systems can be surprisingly twisty—keep HiiKER handy at junctions so the loop doesn’t accidentally become a series of extra spurs.

Landmarks and points of interest along the loop

Summerfield Cemetery vicinity: As you near the cemetery area, the woods often feel a bit more “edge habitat” than deep forest—more light, more brush, and more bird activity. Cemeteries in rural Indiana commonly sit on older family or community ground; treat the area respectfully, stay on the established tread, and avoid stepping onto grave plots.

Muscatatuck River access (optional spur feel): Selmier State Forest provides access to the Muscatatuck River. (in.gov) If your loop alignment brings you near the river side, expect a change in vegetation—more moisture-loving plants and a higher chance of muddy patches. River edges can be undercut and slick; give the bank a little space, especially after storms.

Powerline corridor (use caution): The forest specifically notes that the power line corridor is not maintained as a trail (though people sometimes walk it). (in.gov) If your loop touches or parallels it, treat it as a rough, sun-exposed connector with uneven footing and possible tall grass—fine for confident navigation with HiiKER, but not the best choice if you want the smoothest, most obvious tread.

Nature and wildlife to watch for

Selmier is small (about 355 acres) but surprisingly varied, with a mix of planted and naturally regenerating woods. (in.gov) The state forest’s origin story is unusually personal: Frank Selmier planted multiple tree species (including pine, black locust, black walnut, sycamore, and tulip tree) from 1921–1934, and the land later became state property in 1944 after being in Indiana’s Classified Forest Program. (in.gov) That history shows up