Forging the Trail: Art, Iron, and Nature in Indiana

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum.
Photograph courtesy of Indiana Destination Development Corporation.

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum in Solsberry, Indiana

Nestled in the hills of Solsberry, Indiana, Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum features a three-mile forest path lined with more than 180 large-scale sculptures by artists from around the world.

Founded in 2002 by Director Gerry Masse, Sculpture Trails is one of the largest sculpture parks in the United States, spanning 50 acres of woodland. The collection includes both abstract and figurative works, each thoughtfully placed to complement the natural environment.

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Photograph courtesy of Indiana Destination Development Corporation.

Self-guided tours are free and available daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. in summer and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter. Guided tours cost $10 per person, or $5 for groups of more than 20. Golf cart tours are available with 48 hours’ notice for visitors requiring mobility assistance.

The trails are moderately challenging; sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended. Benches are available throughout the museum for rest and to enjoy the surroundings.

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Photograph courtesy of Indiana Destination Development Corporation.

Special Events Throughout the Year

Sculpture Trails offers hands-on art events year-round. In July, Fire@Night features performances with molten iron, and visitors can create cast-iron relief sculptures. The annual aluminum pour in October welcomes participants of all ages and experience levels to make metal artwork. The blacksmithing class in September provides practical instruction in a workshop setting.

Through the Sculptures in Public Places program, six large outdoor sculptures from the museum’s international collection are displayed at area locations such as Owen Valley Winery, French Lick Casino, and the Greene County Library in Bloomfield. For more information, visit www.sculpturetrails.com.

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Photograph courtesy of Indiana Destination Development Corporation.