Find Adventure on the Discovery Trail
Imagine a place where immense glaciers carved the landscape, leaving behind miles of picturesque beaches, towering dunes, sprawling wetlands, and lush forests. Welcome to the Indiana Dunes, one of the most biodiverse places in the United States.
Beyond the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, you'll find wildflowers bursting with color, over 350 species of birds, and even a carnivorous plant or two if you know where to look.
Ready to chart your own adventure? The Discovery Trail is made up of the Indiana Dunes area's hidden gems, so start exploring and create your own outdoor itinerary!
The Discovery Trail Locations
Ready to explore beyond the dunes? Discover why the Indiana Dunes Discovery Trail is your perfect guide to the area's hidden natural gems, scenic spots, and unforgettable adventures.
Choose Your Dunes Adventure
View AllFew places in the Midwest rival the Indiana Dunes area for birding. More than 350 species live or migrate through here, drawn by the open waters of Lake Michigan into the landscapes of…
Lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes. Of course, you won’t really be lost—we’ve got 70-miles of well-manicured trails perfect for all skill levels...
Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add coastlines, dunes, trails, and plenty of water. Luckily, there’s no shortage of lakes, creeks, and waterways to satisfy your inner aquaphile...
Discover our Blogs
Our Favorite Reasons to Explore the Discovery Trail
- 2 minute read
Less than an hour from Chicago, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, is an…
Conquer the Diana Dunes Dare: Hiking Adventure and Ghost Story at Indiana Dunes National Park
- 3 minute read
Have I got a dare for you… complete with physical challenges, scenic views, and even ghost…
Discovering Snowshoeing in the Indiana Dunes National Park
- 4 minute read
Once the Indiana Dunes area is blanketed in a few inches of snow, you'll start to see people…
Discovering Beauty on the 3 Dune Challenge
- 3 minute read
Take your leaf peeping to a whole new level with the 3 Dune Challenge (Trail 8) at the Indiana Dunes…
Discovering Trails 2 and 10 at Indiana Dunes State Park
- 3 minute read
One of the things my family loves most about the Indiana Dunes State Park is, of course, Lake…
Discover Trail 7 at Indiana Dunes State Park: A Scenic Hike Through Fall Foliage and Stunning Views
- 3 minute read
Autumn is one of my favorite times to visit the Indiana Dunes. The summer crowds are thinning, local…
Waking at Cowles Bog
- 3 minute read
Waking up at dawn to run a trail probably appeals to few people. That’s OK. I’m not…