Diana of the Dunes Dare

In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also known as Diana, a nearby sandhill has been named “Diana’s Dune.” Take the Diana of the Dunes Dare and hike in this local legend’s footsteps at Indiana Dunes National Park’s West Beach. Along the way, you’ll perhaps see why Alice left her conventional life in Chicago and decided to live alone in the wilds of the Dunes. 

More than just a hiking challenge, the Diana Dunes Dare reveals the woman behind a local ghost story. You'll walk away inspired by Alice's love for the Dunes, and hopefully, you'll promise to Love and Protect them as she did. 

Dare to Be Different? Embrace the Dunes.

The Diana Dunes Dare is just an hour drive from Chicago.

Start Here

Your adventure begins at the National Park’s West Beach

How to Complete the Dare

1. Go to West Beach
   Visit Indiana Dunes National Park’s West Beach, located off U.S. Highway 12, at 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary, IN 46403.
2. Hike the Trail
   Dare to Be Different? Then step into the past and embrace the Dunes. Walk in Alice Mabel Gray’s (Diana’s) footsteps while learning about Dune Succession.
3. Share Your Dare
   Stop at the West Beach Bathhouse to take a selfie in front of our Diana of the Dunes selfie station and post using #DianaDunesDare.
4. Get Your Badge of Honor
   Visit either the Paul H. Douglas Center or the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center for a free sticker.

Celebrate Your Accomplishment

Stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or the Paul H. Douglas Center to get your free Diana of the Dunes sticker.
You can also buy a T-shirt or hoodie—you’ve earned it!

This project was created in collaboration with our amazing partners.