The drive
Highway 446 leaves Bloomington at Moores Pike and heads south along the east side of Lake Monroe. It runs through the Hoosier National Forest, with hills and woods on both sides and few buildings. The state road runs about 23.5 miles in all, across southeastern Monroe County and into Lawrence County.
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area, run by the Forest Service on the lake, is reached from Highway 446. The drive ends at Heltonville after a short run on Highway 58.
The route is 19.3 miles and takes about 25 minutes, with 1,526 feet of climbing. It is hilly and curvy, with little traffic.
Along the way
- Bloomington (Moores Pike)
- Heltonville
Good to know
- Services are few; one campground guide says gas and groceries are at the junction of Highway 446 and Chapel Hill Road.
- Hardin Ridge requires a day-use or annual pass from April 15 through October 31.
- Expect hills and bends through the forest; this is a lightly traveled road.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check INDOT TrafficWise.
Questions about this drive
How long is Highway 446 at Monroe Lake?
Highway 446 from Bloomington to Heltonville is 19.3 miles and takes about 25 minutes.
Is Highway 446 a curvy road?
The route climbs about 1,526 feet over its length and winds through the Hoosier National Forest. It is a hilly, curvy road with little traffic.
Where is Hardin Ridge on Highway 446?
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is reached from Highway 446, on the east side of Lake Monroe.
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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.