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
Your adventure begins at the Indiana Dune State Park Nature Center.
How to Complete the Dare
- Go to the Indiana Dunes State Park
Visit Indiana Dunes State Park, located at the end of State Rd. 49 at 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304. - Hike the Trail
With 552 vertical feet, this is the toughest trail in the State Park. Take the challenge and conquer the dunes. - Share the Challenge
Take a selfie at the top of one of the dunes and post it using #3DuneChallenge. - Get Your Badge of Honor
Visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center for a free bumper sticker and to buy a commemorative T-shirt or hoodie.
Once you’re done, stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to get your free 3 Dune Challenge sticker.
You can also buy a T-shirt or hoodie—you’ve earned it!
Share your adventures with us by tagging #3dunechallenge
Another Amazing Trail at the Indiana Dunes.
Diana of the Dunes Dare
In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also know as Diana, a nearby sand hill has been named “Diana’s Dune.” You can now hike in Alice’s footsteps and explore the natural wonders of her beloved Dunes terrain.
