Ohio River | my90acres

Bridge over the Blue River. We crossed the river several times and followed it quite a way.

We opted for a change of scenery this week and went for a drive in the country, mostly in our own county. I love the spring greens, you know, that yellow-green color in your box of Crayolas. It doesn’t last for long so you have to catch it while you can. The redbuds were out adding a bright touch of color but the dogwoods were a little behind. It was an in and out spring day with sun and clouds. Towards the end of the afternoon, rain showers moved in.

If you’re not familiar with Southern Indiana, I should tell you that it’s quite hilly and beautiful. Our county borders the Ohio River and has several other rivers. Especially notable are the Blue River and the Little Blue River. They get their names from the color of the water which is a bluey-green. They’re also very popular with kayakers and canoeists in warmer weather. It was a perfect spring day for a picnic beside the river.

So taking 62 west out of Corydon, we just followed our noses. This is what we saw. It was refreshing to get out of the house and turn our thoughts to more pleasant things. I’m sure I’ll be back soon for some painting adventures.

The road follows along the river for many miles. It is lined with redbuds this time of year. The dogwoods were just coming out.

Blue River with bluebells. The hole in that sycamore goes all the way through.

Looking north from the canoe ramp. I love the overhanging sycamores. They’re just as striking in the autumn with the fall colors.

Blue River looking south from the canoe ramp.

Blue River Chapel right on the Blue River.

This is Artists’ Point overlooking the Ohio River. Not exactly on the way to anywhere, it’s worth the trip to find it. I have actually seen eagles riding the thermals up from the river right in front of me. That is Kentucky across the river.

Falls of the Ohio II, acrylic on canvas, 16 x 20, Kit Miracle. This view is looking back towards the shore from the beds, where the puddles reflect the cloudy sky and trees.

A couple of weeks ago my husband and I took a day trip to the Falls of the Ohio in New Albany, Indiana. Although it’s only a short drive away, I had never been there.

The Falls of the Ohio is an Indiana state park set on the edge of the Ohio River. It features large fossil beds which visitors can climb over. You can view thousands of fossils right beneath your feet. As the level of the river drops, more layers of fossils are uncovered.

Falls of the Ohio I, acrylic on canvas, 16 x 20, Kit Miracle. View from the treeline at the Falls, across the river towards Louisville. We saw a train crossing the bridge while we were there.

The day we visited was an in and out day, with showers alternating with sun. I particularly loved the setting along the river. The old trees, the puddles reflecting the trees, the skyline of Louisville across the river. We even saw a train crossing the old bridge.

There is an interpretive center which has a fee but the visit to the Falls is free. If you go there, it is a bit tricky to find but follow the signs. Obviously it’s on the river so you will be looking for River Road. Take a picnic lunch or travel along River Road to eat lunch at one of the many neat restaurants in the area. You can even follow the road east to Jeffersonville to the walking bridge over the Ohio.

All in all, an enjoyable day. It’s good to try something new.