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.

Don't just face the Challenge. Conquer it!

The 3 Dune Challenge — Family | Indiana Dunes

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…

The 3 Dune Challenge — Extreme | Indiana Dunes

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…

“Running on sand requires 1.6 times more energy than running on a hard surface.”
— Biologists.org

3DC Map & Logo

Start Here

Your adventure begins at the Indiana Dune State Park Nature Center.

Download the Map

How to Complete the Dare

  1. 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.
  2. Hike the Trail
    With 552 vertical feet, this is the toughest trail in the State Park. Take the challenge and conquer the dunes.
  3. Share the Challenge
    Take a selfie at the top of one of the dunes and post it using #3DuneChallenge.
  4. 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.

 

Celebrate Your Accomplishment

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!

3DC Logo

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The 3 Dune Challenge

Challenge yourself, your friends, and your family to climb the three tallest sand dunes at the Indiana Dunes State Park. The 1.5-mile trail is the toughest in the park, with 552 vertical feet to climb. The reward: breathtaking views and the title of dune conqueror.

This self-guided trail starts on Trail Eight outside of the Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center. After you conquer the challenge, buy a shirt or hoodie and pick up a free sticker from the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304.

 

Phone: (219) 926-2255
Website: http://www.indianadunes.com/3dc

This project was created in collaboration with our amazing partners.

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Another Amazing Trail at the Indiana Dunes

Looking for another challenge? We dare you to take on the Diana Dunes Dare in the Indiana Dunes National Park. In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also known as Diana, a nearby sandhill has been named “Diana’s Dune.” You can now hike in Alice’s footsteps and explore the natural wonders of her beloved Dunes terrain.

Take the Dare

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Indiana Dunes - Porter County CVB

Indiana Dunes Tourism

1215 N State Road 49, Porter, Indiana 46304

+1(219) 926-2255

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