Ready for a workout with bragging rights? Tackle the 3 Dune Challenge, a steep 1.5-mile hike up the three tallest dunes in Indiana Dunes State Park with 552 feet of elevation gain.
Named one of the best places to hike in Indiana by USA Today, Trail 9 at the Indiana Dunes State Park offers incredible vistas and towering sand dunes that make you feel a thousand miles away.
Watch Ranger Matt's Dunes 101 videos to learn everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes, including how to have the best beach experience, where to camp, and which trail to hike.
State Park Views
We love our outdoor spaces and many are fragile habitats that need to be protected! Learn how to visit the Indiana Dunes sustainably with these eco-friendly travel tips.
The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse national parks in the entire country. Over 1,100 flowering plant species and ferns make their homes here. How many flowers can YOU find?
Amazing Amphibians @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Join the naturalist in the Nature Center auditorium for a chat about which amphibians call the dunes home. Great…
Nature Perserve Fall Walk @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Meet the Naturalist at the Beach Overflow Lot (next to the Main Gate) to hike one of the trails less traveled. Trail…
Night at the Museum @ Indiana Dunes State Park
By the way, Saturday's NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM hike begins at the Nature Center of the Indiana Dunes State Park at 6:30…
Saw-Whet Owl Banding: All Access Field Night
- Indiana Dunes State Park
- Recurring daily
Go behind the scenes of Northern Saw-whet Owl research with Indiana Audubon, in partnership with the Indiana Dunes…
Beach Mysteries Hike @ Indiana Dunes State Park
This is a fun, moderate 2-mile trek along Trail 7 to the beach and back. Along the way, you will discover what makes…
Moonlit Walk tot he Bird Tower @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Meet the naturalist at the Beach Pavilion for a peaceful evening hike up to the Bird Observation Platform. The moon…
Saw-Whet Owl Banding: All Access Field Night
- Indiana Dunes State Park
- Recurring daily
Go behind the scenes of Northern Saw-whet Owl research with Indiana Audubon, in partnership with the Indiana Dunes…
Fall Photo Scavenger Hunt @ Indiana Dunes State Park
- Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center
- Recurring weekly on Friday
Stop by the Nature Center any time for this fun Fall game. Bring a camera or smartphone to “focus” on capturing…
Nature Observation Hike @ Indiana Dunes State Park
- Indiana Dunes State Park
- Recurring weekly on Friday
From the Nature Center, walk with a naturalist to take a closer look at interesting things happening in the woods…
JD Marshall Shipwreck Hike @ Indiana Dunes State Park
From the Nature Center, walk with a naturalist as they tell the story of the SS JD Marshall that sank in a storm…
Leaf Art @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Join us for an exciting art project featuring a natural material that's plentiful in the fall— leaves! Create…
Fall High Dunes Walk @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Strap on your hiking shoes and join a Naturalist to not only see beautiful views, but to learn more about both the…
Beach Glass Wire-Wrapping Workshops @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Learn the art of wire-wrapping and make your own beach glass jewelry during a 1.5-hour session at the Nature Center…
Turtle Time @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Turtle trot on over to the Nature Center to meet some of our ambassador turtles and learn more about their amazing…
Snakes-Giving @ Indiana Dunes State Park
Happy Thanks... I mean SNAKES-giving! Come check out a few local snakes and see what they’re having for a holiday…
More than just a hiking trail, this interactive experience will weave the culture of the Miami and Potawatomi Indigenous Peoples with the natural ecology of the Indiana Dunes.
You’re invited to help be a part of preserving and protecting the Indiana Dunes by volunteering during your visit. All you have to do is show up! How’s that for easy?!
Learn about a few ways you can explore the outdoors responsibly while ensuring that its beauty and resources are maintained for future generations.
Top Things to Do This November in the Indiana Dunes
- 3 minute read
November is a wonderful time to visit the Indiana Dunes. The temperatures are mild, the leaves are starting to fall, and the holiday season is just beginning. Here are five of our favorite…
Indiana Dunes and the Federal Government Shutdown
- 2 minute read
As of right now, Indiana Dunes National Park remains open, and visitors will have access to its trails and shoreline. National Park Service law enforcement will continue to patrol the Park…
Don’t Skip These 7 Autumn Activities in the Indiana Dunes
- 3 minute read
That summer trip you planned? Postpone it. The Indiana Dunes are a sight to see in the fall—and there’s a lot to do, too! 1. Dig into Fall Flavors Cinnamon, apple, pumpkin…
Outdoor Adventures
Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from…
Dunes Deals Coupon Pass
Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of your vacation. Discounts ranging from a free scoop…
Indiana Dunes Shop
Don’t just experience the Indiana Dunes; take it home with you. Find your new favorite T-shirt, hoodie, or…
Pet-Friendly Adventures
There’s a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in the state of Indiana…
Arts & Entertainment
It’s not all sand-fringed lakes and epic sunsets. Here, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene stoked by a…
Drop-in Volunteering
Be the Change — Volunteer! Get more involved with the Indiana Dunes!
Bed & Breakfasts
Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…
Hotels & Inns
A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…