Discovery Trail
The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse areas in the United States, and we’ve made a self-guided tour for you to enjoy what mother nature has uniquely provided us. Welcome to the Discovery Trail.
Nestled in northwest Indiana, on the shores of the massive freshwater sea of Lake Michigan, is a remarkable place, a unique landscape carved by immense glaciers during the last ice age. As these frozen giants slowly advanced and receded, the ground beneath them shifted violently. And in their wake, they left behind a cornucopia of natural wonders, from sandy beaches and majestic dunes to sprawling wetlands and lush forests.
Discovery Trail Locations
Indiana Dunes Discovery Trail Pass
Download the free Discovery Trail pass! While visiting locations, you'll earn points by checking in and completing activities. Save up your points and you'll be able to enter to win an Indiana Dunes getaway! The Discovery Trail pass is free, but entrance fees apply where applicable.
Photos from the Discovery Trail
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
Discovering Snowshoeing in the Indiana Dunes National Park
- 3 minute read
Once the Indiana Dunes area is blanketed in a few inches of snow, you'll start to see people traversing the…
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
- 5 minute read
It’s December, and I find myself singing along to all the holiday songs on the radio and playing in the…
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 State Park…