Montgomery County

Cunila Cliffs

Cunila Cliffs protects 18.44 acres of hemlock and oak forest along Sugar Creek with high botanical diversity and exposed sandstone bedrock. The Laura Hare Overlook and the Les-Ter Lookout provide stunning views of Sugar Creek and surrounding forest. The property is named after a population of uncommon Cunila organiodes found growing underneath the sandstone rock outcroppings, pictured below. This mint species was the 1,111^th species documented on NICHES’ preserves and is usually found in more southern parts of Indiana.

The property will be protected from development so that the native flora and fauna can thrive at the site without encroachment. The property is not open for general visitation due to limited parking and access. NICHES will host special outings and guided hikes here instead.

Activities

No Trails

History of Acquisition and Property

NICHES bargain-purchased Cunila Cliffs from Terry Keating in 2024. This project advances NICHES strategic initiative to protect interior forest in the Sugar Creek watershed.

Terry’s generosity with the bargain sale was amplified by gifts from the Roy Whistler Foundation, the McAllister Foundation, and the Laura Hare Charitable Trust for the acquisition of this property.

Terry and her sister Leslie lived nearby and owned this land together for many years. They loved the forest and always wanted it to be protected, rather than be developed. Leslie had been a member and advocate of NICHES for years. After Leslie’s passing, Terry came across one of Leslie’s old editions of The Sprout and gave us a call right away, excited about the idea of the beloved forest becoming a nature preserve.

Cunila Cliffs is protected in Leslie’s memory. The Les-Ter lookout is named for the sisterly love that protected this special place. The Laura Hare Overlook is named for Dr. Laura Hare, who also loved Sugar Creek and established her charitable trust for the protection of Indiana’s natural areas like this.