The 3 Dune Challenge
Need a reason to get outside? We’ve got three.
Challenge friends, family, and yourself to an epic climb up the three tallest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. It’s 1.5 miles of tough trail with 552 vertical feet that’s 100 percent brag-worthy.
Go Casual
Hiking up the three tallest sand dunes isn’t easy, but it can still be fun for all ages. Go solo or grab your friends and family to hike the 1.5-mile trail at your own pace. Just be sure to take plenty of stops—not to catch your breath, but to catch sight of our stunning Indiana Dunes views.
Go Extreme
If your idea of fun is running up the stairs of a skyscraper or doing a marathon, try climbing 552 vertical feet of sand and stairs. The 3 Dune Challenge is Indiana’s best test of physical strength and endurance. Compete against your own “PB” while running the equivalent of 55 stories up three towering dunes. And if you still want more, give it your all by taking the flip trip—running back up the dunes in reverse to the starting point.
“Running on sand requires 1.6 times more energy than running on a hard surface.”
— Biologists.org
The 3 Dune Challenge is just an hour drive from Chicago
Start Here
Once you’re done, stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to get your free 3DC sticker or buy a T-shirt or hoodie. You’ll have earned it.
Get your free sticker and buy a hoodie or T-shirt at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center