Fulton County: Trails, Water and History

Fulton County offers a variety of reasons to stay: trails through natural areas, access to rivers and lakes, and places where regional history comes to life. To plan your trip, you can first decide whether outdoor activities, water sports or culture should take center stage. These interests lead to different destinations and give you a practical guide when choosing a hotel.

Trails and Natural Areas

Burton Nature Preserve has parking and trails. A walking path connects the Nickel Plate Trail with the Judy-Burton trails. The Nickel Plate Trail is a more than 40-mile-long rail trail running from Kokomo in Howard County to Rochester in Fulton County. Cross-country skiing is also possible on the trail; winter conditions can vary. If you’re planning a visit during the colder months, take these changing conditions into account.

The walking trails at Prairie Edge Nature Park offer another way to experience the landscape. They pass through areas of native wildflowers, trees and prairie grasses. Together, these provide different nature experiences: the long rail trail of the Nickel Plate Trail and the walking trails at Prairie Edge Nature Park. Which stop is a better fit for your day depends on whether you want to use a rail trail or take a stroll specifically through these natural areas.

Water Access and Outdoor Recreation

Lake Manitou was created in 1827 by the construction of a dam and covers 775 acres. It is suitable for fishing. Lakeside Park has a public access point for boating and fishing; check seasonal access before planning your visit. The lake itself and access through the park therefore offer different ways to enjoy a stay by the water.

The Tippecanoe River also offers opportunities to spend time outdoors: Aubbeenaubbee Landing is a public access point on the river, where visitors can relax along the Tippecanoe River. Fishing is possible at Germany Bridge County Park, which also has picnic areas and a restroom. This gives you several specific activities to choose from: fishing is mentioned both at Lake Manitou and at Germany Bridge County Park, while Aubbeenaubbee Landing provides public access to the Tippecanoe River.

History and Regional Events

Fulton County Museum is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed on holidays. Check holiday schedules before your visit. The Round Barn Museum is also part of the museum. The Living History Village at Fulton County Museum includes 14 historic buildings. The living history village in Loyal depicts the period from 1900 to 1925. These attractions each offer a different focus: the Village’s buildings and the period depicted in Loyal give you specific topics to explore, while the Round Barn Museum is part of the museum’s offerings.

Another historic site is William Polke’s trading post. Fulton County’s first post office was located there and was called Chippeway. Events also bring history to life: the annual Trail of Courage Living History Festival takes place on the third weekend in September; check that year’s dates before your trip. The Redbud Trail Rendezvous depicts the Midwest frontier in April. Check current event dates before your visit.

Planning Your Trip

For your journey, Fulton County’s location near U.S. Highway 31 offers a practical point of reference. When planning your stay, you can weigh the interests mentioned above: the Nickel Plate Trail is a long rail trail where cross-country skiing is also possible; the nature parks offer walking trails, while museums and events explore historical themes. If you prefer spending time by the water, consider Lake Manitou, the Tippecanoe River and the park access points mentioned above. Choose a hotel to suit the topics you want to explore during your stay, and check the listed opening hours, seasonal access and event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Kewanna, Clark, Morgan, Cass County, Warren County, Newton County, Carroll County, Madison County.

For the full travel overview: Indiana.