Dubois County: Nature, History and Traditions

Dubois County offers a variety of reasons to visit: nature and outdoor activities at Patoka Lake and in Ferdinand State Forest, history at the museum and monastery, and an annual market in Ferdinand. When planning a hotel stay, you can consider whether a specific event date is the deciding factor or whether you’d rather focus on nature and cultural experiences.

Nature and active routes

Ferdinand State Forest offers 8.8 miles of designated mountain biking trails. This is a concrete reference point for travelers who want to make cycling a focus of their stay. The Main Trail at Patoka Lake is a 6.5-mile loop. If you look for a loop when planning your route, you can take this trail format into account alongside its length.

The lake itself also has a unique connection to nature: the 8,800-acre Patoka Lake is home to freshwater jellyfish. Its size and this unusual habitat offer different ways to experience the lake, while the Main Trail adds a specific route length and loop format to your plans.

History and religious experiences

The Dubois County Museum includes a 17-room main street that evokes the 1890s. Its historical theme is presented through a recreated streetscape. Tours can be arranged in advance; if you plan to take a tour, factor this arrangement into your visit planning.

The Monastery Immaculate Conception was founded in 1867 by four young Benedictine sisters. Visitors are welcome on the grounds, and tours can be arranged. Visitors can also attend Sunday Mass with the sisters. The monastery’s founding story, tours, and Mass offer different cultural and religious perspectives.

Another way to discover historic churches is the Trail of Faith: this 85-mile, self-guided driving tour passes through 19 historic churches. This format differs from the tours that can be arranged in advance at the museum and monastery. As you plan your trip, you can decide whether you’d prefer a tour at a single site or a self-guided driving tour.

Ferdinand’s Christkindlmarkt

Ferdinand’s Christkindlmarkt takes place annually on the third full weekend in November. More than 200 stalls offer handmade items, regional food, and wine.

Rail route and hotel planning

The Spirit of Jasper route runs south of Dubois through Jasper to Huntingburg and is part of the Dubois County Railroad. Since excursion schedules may vary, check the latest information before planning a train trip. First decide what matters most for your trip, then look for hotels in Dubois County that fit your plans.

Discover more destinations: Jasper, Huntingburg, Ferdinand, Fountain County, Montgomery County, Orange County, Starke County, Laporte.

Back to the main travel overview: Indiana.