story by GLENDA WINDERS
Answer: This Indiana county has a waterway so remarkable that it turned up in a “Jeopardy!” question.
Question: What is Pulaski?
The actual answer was “‘The Jewel of Pulaski County,’ Indiana, is this river that sounds like something you don’t want to do.” The question was, of course, “What is Tippecanoe?” — one of the 10 top most important freshwater systems in North America. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has honored it for its biological cleanliness, which means it is a prime spot for all kinds of wildlife. And anyone who has come here with a canoe or kayak knows it is the gold standard of fun.
The river winds through the towns of Monterey and Winamac, providing inspiration for recreation and places to enjoy the water as it goes. In Monterey, for example, it leads to the Monterey Town Park and Rising Sun Campground. In Winamac it takes visitors to the Winamac Town Park as well as to four other DNR public-access points in addition to the Tippecanoe River State Park. Here visitors seeking to turn off their electronics and relax will find a haven. With 8 miles of hiking trails, 14 miles of horseback-riding trails, 7 miles of water trails, camping and cabins, the park is known for being one of the most ecologically significant places in the state and a perfect place to be quiet and unwind.
The Winamac Town Park access point is immediately adjacent to the Memorial Swinging Bridge, which connects the west side of the park, where there is access to both the river the town, with the east side. The spot is just a couple of blocks from several good places to eat.
Don’t have your own equipment? That’s not a problem. Riverside Rentals in Winamac has everything you need for canoeing, kayaking and tubing down the lazy river. Monterey’s Tippy Canoe Rentals, located inside the Rising Sun Campground, will also make sure you have what you need to enjoy a great day on the water.
For more information visit pulaskionline.org
