I set out from Indianapolis to Owen County’s Cataract Falls to photograph the ice formations formed by the falls. The bitter Arctic air has been settling into Indiana for an extended period. Saturday’s temperature was below zero, and the blustery wind chills made it feel even worse. As I approached the falls, the sound of falling water grew louder. The air was crisp and biting. The ice formations shimmered in hues of blue and white, reflecting the soft gray sky above. As water cascades over the limestone ledges, a massive cone of ice begins to form. Ice formations from waterfalls are sometimes called icefalls, creating a winter masterpiece. (Bianchi & Dufour, 2010, pp. 1-10)

To battle the biting cold, I bundled up in wool socks, snow pants, scarves, a cap, and a thick hooded coat. For the first time, I slipped on battery-powered heated gloves—a game-changer for braving the elements during a long day outdoors. I carefully carried my Nikon Z-9 camera with a 24-70mm lens. The bright conditions allowed me to use a low ISO setting to minimize sensor noise and get sharp, detailed images.

Picturesque Cataract Falls

Frozen mist

The picturesque Cataract Falls are the largest falls by volume in Indiana. There are two waterfalls—the Upper Falls, which are the first ones you see when arriving at the parking lot, and the Lower Falls, which are easier to access. The total height of the Upper Cataract Falls on Mill Creek is about 40 feet. The Lower Falls plunge a reported 30 feet into the Genevieve limestone gorge. The falls have resulted from two pre-glacial bedrock ridges buried beneath ancient lake sediments of the Illinoisan glacial period. The Miami, Shawnee, and Potawatomi were the dominant tribes in the region throughout the 18th century.

Cataract Falls is a hidden gem, stunning in every season. But when the cold lingers, and temperatures plunge, the falls transform into an enchanting wonderland, shimmering with icy magic.

Spiritually, a waterfall can symbolize a great release of emotion, rejuvenation, renewal of spirit, and transformation. One might think of it as divine energy washing away burdens and negativity. They can also remind us of life’s unstoppable journey, the relentless passage of time, and the universe’s continuous movement. And waterfalls provide a sense of wonder, beauty, and awe. Outdoor hikes are good for physical, mental, and emotional health.

Lower Cataract Falls

As I drove into the Lieber State Recreation Area managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, I stopped to look at the Upper Falls, which were mostly frozen but had areas of water flowing in narrow channels. The viewpoint, just a few short steps from the parking lot, provides a fantastic panoramic view of the Upper Falls. However, I wanted to get up close to the falls, so I continued to the Lower Falls, which is more accessible.

Reaching the base of the Lower Cataract Falls is considerably easier than accessing the Upper Falls. I carefully avoided thin ice, knowing how treacherous it can be. I walked downstream from the rock ledge to Mill Creek and then back up along the rocky shore of the gorge. The freezing temperatures turned the flowing water into ice, creating curtains of icicles and delicate sculptures. The ice spray creates awe-inspiring, delicate structures. The formations continue to grow as the harsh, cold conditions persist for many days.

It can appear that the Cataract Falls is completely frozen over. However, beneath the icicles and ice wall, water keeps flowing, like the universe’s continuous movement. The kinetic energy of flowing water keeps it fluid.

Upper Cataract Falls

After spending some time photographing the Lower Falls, I returned to the Upper Falls. I followed a winding trail from the parking lot, over a hill, and down to Mill Creek’s water’s edge. I could then walk upstream along the river’s gorge to reach the base of the falls. This was an enchanting location, with formations sculpted by the frozen mist. After spending a long time photographing the vivid beauty of the ice formations, I wanted to reach the east side of the river. This meant retracing my steps, then crossing the historic covered bridge. Another trail wound its way through the woods and down a hill, where I could make my way back to the river’s edge.

The Upper Falls

After scrambling between and over rocks, I was able to slip behind the Upper Falls with anticipation. There, the ice forms a walk-in cave lined with crystals, a delicate curtain of ice, and shifting tones of blue and green. I treaded cautiously over the slippery glass-like ice floor. Under the rock ledge, icicles formed spikes of ice, some of which turned into tubes or pendant drops, eventually forming frozen pillars and curtains. With glistening pillars that shift in texture and color and the delicate layers formed by freezing mist, the whole scene of Cataract Falls feels like stepping into a frozen fairytale.

Standing behind the waterfall, I could see, between the icicles and the falling water, an area where floating ice was broken into smaller, separate sheets. These floating sheets of ice resemble pancake ice, which forms when moving water breaks ice into pieces and grinds them together. The churning water near the falls helps to break the ice into pieces. And the surface chur helps keep the surface from freezing entirely.

Little Sister Falls is a short distance from the Lower Falls. It is a serene and snow-blanketed escape in winter. The gentle, tiered falls create a beautiful contrast of rocks, ice, and snow.

Photographing Nature’s Beauty

Ice from the frozen falls

It is challenging work to capture nature’s true wonder and beauty in a photo. I continue to train myself to observe my surroundings more intently, noticing details, textures, and colors. I look for patterns, lines, and shapes, seeking the best angles and leading lines. I tried to compose images to draw one’s attention to center of interest. And I watch how light and shadows interact with my surroundings.

Photographing the falls was pure exhilaration. Like a photograph, the ice formations are frozen in time. The river keeps flowing and tumbling over the falls, the passage of time continues, and life’s journey moves on. In winter, Cataract Falls, adorned with its frozen wonders, promises an unforgettable adventure for anyone willing to embrace the cold. So, what frozen wonder waits near you? Dare to explore and create your own winter tale.

Behind the Upper Falls

Behind the Upper Falls

Cascading Lower Falls