The Hoosier State isn't exactly known for its hiking trails, but I think this is unfair. Our hiking trails are wonder-filled and awe-inspiring, and best of all, many of them are relatively quiet 24/7/365. Sure, there are the most popular hiking trails in Indiana, which are almost always busy - but that's not what I'm going to focus on today. Right now, let's check out some of the best hikes in Indiana that you might get all to yourself.

1. Cave River Valley Trail 

The Cave River Valley Trail is located near the small town of Campbellsburg and is remarkable for many reasons, some of which are its photogenic waterfalls and caves. The area's geography is unusually amazing, and this particular hike is a great way to explore it up close and personally. I definitely recommend waterproof shoes for this one - or, at least, shoes that you won't mind getting wet. In the summer, bug spray is also helpful. The hike is open year-round, and even winter brings with it some wonder and awe. If you want to explore the caves, however, you'll have to plan your visit for sometime between May 1st and August 31st.

2. Indiana Dunes Trail 2 and Trail 9 Loop

Often overlooked in favor of other, more popular hiking trails at Indiana Dunes National Park, the Indiana Dunes Trail 2 and Trail 9 Loop combine two of the park's most underrated hikes. It's just under four miles long and considered moderately difficult, though with good shoes, most folks can probably manage. You may run into mud, mosquitoes, or felled trees - but as long as you plan for these things, you'll do wonderfully. Nature is going to be natural - embrace it and be ready for it!

3. Oak Ridge Prairie Loop

Hidden away near Griffith, Indiana, is the Oak Ridge Prairie Loop - a must-do for any lover of the Hoosier State's wilderness. When folks think of Indiana, they think of wide-open, flat plains, but they couldn't be further from correct. This trail illustrates this wonderfully, with gorgeous woodlands so dense that the sun doesn't peek through the shadows of the trees, gorgeous views, and so much more. I like this trail because it's both beautiful AND mostly bug-free, so it's definitely got that going for it.

4. Orchard Trail

This urban hiking trail near Milan, Indiana, is short, sweet, and to the point - and that's why I love it. Known as the Orchard Trail, it's nestled within Versailles State Park and is easily one of the most underrated hikes in the Midwest. I love this hiking trail for the foliage, especially in the fall; if you want to get out and enjoy your afternoon immersed in fall color, this is the trail for you. Kids enjoy this one, and it's easy enough that most folks will be able to do it effortlessly. This trail is popular amongst wildlife watchers, too - so bring the binoculars.

5. Patoka Lake Trails 1 and 2

This awesome hike - a mashup of Patoka Lake Trails 1 and 2 - is easy and comes in at just under three and a half miles long. With numerous nifty little spur trails that branch off from this one, you can't go wrong - and it's impossible to get bored. One of the coolest parts of this hike is Totem Rock, which ancient peoples once used for all sorts of purposes. Today, it still stands, and it tells many stories as long as you care to listen. The best times to hike this one are in autumn (for the foliage) and spring (for the wildflowers); no matter what, though, you're in for a treat.

So, what do you think? Are these hiking trails in Indiana hikes that you'd like to go on someday? Me too! If you'd like to take your hiking game up a notch, check out AllTrails Plus. Personally, I don't know what I did before I had it.