Author: Paul

Author Paul R. Wonning considers himself an "Indiana Hound," because he likes to "sniff" out the interesting places and history of Indiana and then use his books to reveal them to his readers. He also enjoys gardening, American history and dabbles in writing fantasy and humorous fiction.
Indiana State Park Travel Guide Series, Podcast - Indiana Places and History

Podcast – Clifty Falls State Park Canyon Rim Hike

A favorite hike of ours is one I like to call the “Canyon Rim Hike”. This is my name, you will not find it on any park literature. We usually start this hike at Clifty Falls Shelter. We hike the east rim of the canyon, descend into Clifty Creek canyon, cross the creek and hike the west rim. This hike is just at eight miles long and takes us usually just under five hours. Continue reading Podcast – Clifty Falls State Park Canyon Rim Hike

Podcast - Stories of American History, Timeline of United States History

Christopher Columbus’ Fourth Voyage, Death and His Wanderings After Death

His small fleet included four ships and departed on May 9, 1502. His stepbrother Bartolomeo, Diego Mendez, and his 13-year-old son Fernando accompanied him. During the final leg of the voyage, he encountered a hurricane that was brewing, so he did stop at Hispaniola to warn the governor. The governor ignored his warning and sent a 28-ship fleet laden with treasure on its way. The ships did encounter the hurricane, which sank 24 of the 28 ships. Columbus had placed some of his possessions on one of the ships and this ship was one of the survivors. Continue reading Christopher Columbus’ Fourth Voyage, Death and His Wanderings After Death

Indiana State Park Travel Guide Series, Podcast - Indiana Places and History

The Ladders Trail at Turkey Run State Park

Suspension Bridge
The Suspension Bridge crosses Sugar Creek, connecting Trail 1 on the south side with Trails 3 and 4 on the north side. Completed in 1918 the bridge was constructed by the Lafayette Engineering Company. It replaced an earlier suspension bridge built on the site. The bridge is 202 feet long. Steel cables support the 4-foot-wide deck as they carry foot traffic across Sugar Creek. The 70 Steps Concrete staircase to the bridge was built in 1921. The cables are anchored in a fifty-ton concrete base. Continue reading The Ladders Trail at Turkey Run State Park

Indiana State Park Travel Guide Series

Versailles State Park

Versailles State Park is a prime destination for those that enjoy mountain biking, hiking, camping and picnicking. Over 30 miles of mountain bike trails that double as hiking trails and 6 miles of dedicated hiking trails, those seeking a nature adventure will find a mecca of enjoyment. The 226-site electric campground offers a wonderful, relaxing way to spend time in the great outdoors.
The book Versailles State Park book also serves as a tourism guide for Ripley County, Indiana as it includes an extensive listing of local attractions like museums, movie theaters, golf courses and many other fun day trip ideas. Continue reading Versailles State Park

Indiana Photo Gallery, Road Trip Indiana Series

Indiana Photo Gallery – Gladys Russel Wildlife Refuge

While Gladys Russell is a wildlife preserve with excellent opportunities for bird watching, it also offers a number of uses, including hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, and fishing. This popular park is a favored destination for small weddings, family reunions and other events. The barn and shelter are available for reservations. Continue reading Indiana Photo Gallery – Gladys Russel Wildlife Refuge