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Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
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Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
Explore the Dunes Dunes 101Getting HereIndiana Dunes National ParkIndiana Dunes State ParkOutdoor Adventures 9Outdoor AdventuresVisitor Center
Things to DoThings to Do
Things to Do Must See & DoArts & EntertainmentAttractions & RecreationOur CommunitiesPet FriendlyPet FriendlyShoppingVolunteerWinter Activities
Eat & DrinkEvents
Places to StayPlaces to Stay
Places to Stay Bed & BreakfastsHotels & InnsRVs & CampgroundsVacation HomesVacation Homes
Hiking Header Item 1
Indiana DunesExplore the DunesOutdoor AdventuresHiking

Hiking in and around the Dunes

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. Discover why we’re known as the birthplace of ecology as you meander through a violet sea of wild lupines and other native plants.

Travel from sand to oak forests in the same morning, or challenge your friends—and yourself—on either The 3 Dune Challenge or the Diana of the Dunes Dare. Between close-knit communities, state, and national parks, you’ll get the chance to get a whole new footing on adventure.

Browse Indiana Dunes Hiking Spots

Check Out These Hiking Adventures:

The 3 Dune Challenge

Three more reasons to get outside. Grab your friends, family, your furry friend, and a fitness tracker and discover the ultimate outdoor adventure with a challenging walk or run up the park’s three tallest dunes.

Diana of the Dunes Dare

Don’t just read about history, experience it! In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also known 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.

Run the Dunes

There’s nothing like running in the Indiana Dunes. Here are five great reasons: 1) Burn more calories. 2) There’s less impact on your joints. 3) It helps you work on your balance. 4) There are always incredible views. 5) It’s FUN! With more than 70 miles of trails, there’s never been a better way to shed calories while experiencing one of nature’s masterpieces.

Even More Hiking Opportunities

Backpacks for Naturalists

The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse parks in the U.S., and the Backpacks for Naturalists program offers free explorer backpacks for daily use. Each backpack contains binoculars, field guides, activity ideas, and other useful items for your adventure.

Wilderness Wonderland

A weekend of adventure through the Indiana Dunes

By Quincy Koetz

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Chesterton Toys

This shop is a wonderland of classic and wooden toys, as well as unique, modern playthings, all with a strong focus on “kid-powered”…

201 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton

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Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Portage

Enjoy the comforts of home at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, located just 10 minutes from the Indiana Dunes. This charming hotel has plenty of…

1630 Olmstead Dr., Portage

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Evexia Salt Cave

Evexia Salt Cave will take you back to the year 1839 when the first salt mine health resort was opened in Poland. We have created a simulated…

1583 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton

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Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

Want to create a personalized tour of the Indiana Dunes area? Stop by the Visitor Center where our front desk destination concierges will help you…

1215 N. State Road 49, Porter

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Lifestyles

You’ll feel like Alice in Wonderland in this eclectic, edgy store. Every inch of its 10,000 square feet is filled with one-of-a-kind gifts from…

122 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso

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Spring House Inn

It’s one part hotel, one part country retreat, and all parts comfort. With more than 50 rooms perfect for business travelers, families, and anyone…

303 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter

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The Flour Shoppe Bakery

Locally owned and operated gluten-free bakery. They offer sweet and savory options, bubble tea, and gourmet coffee.

540 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton

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(219) Taproom

They feature 16 taps shared with only a few carefully curated breweries Their beers are unique to NWI! Their menu is as creative and unique as their…

109 S. 3rd St., Chesterton

312 Cafe

Family-friendly, work-friendly, full bar, and espresso bar. Dine-in, catering, and todo. Kids menu available.

312 N. Madison St., Hebron

49’er Drive-In Theatre

Experience a blast from the past at a place that has been chosen as one of the top drive-ins in the nation—open weekends in April, May, and…

675 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso

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Pet Friendly Dunes

We believe lakeside fun shouldn’t just be reserved for the two-legged kind. Here, you and your furry friend will find plenty of sites, attractions, and accommodations.

More Outdoor Adventures

Beaches

With 15 miles of award-winning shoreline to explore, nine oh-so-swimmable beaches, and many towering dunes, you’ll be enchanted by the magic of the Indiana Dunes.

Bicycling

Some things stick with us forever, just like riding a bike. Unforgettable vacation memories spent cruising miles of paved trail, off-road adventures, and rails to trails journeys are just to name a few.

Birding

We’ve been described as “for the birds,” and no, that isn’t an insult. The Indiana Dunes is a birders paradise. After all, where else can you see more than 350 native and migratory bird species in one place?

Fishing

Fishing season? Try fishing seasons. With this many inland lakes, creeks, miles of shoreline, and deep waters, we’re hooked on the sport all year round.

Paddling

Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add water. Luckily, around here there’s no shortage of lakes, creeks, and waterways to satisfy your inner aquaphile. Take it from us, it’s the best way to get to know the area.

Wandering

Take the time to wander and let your senses take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Indiana Dunes. Explore gardens, parks, and other natural areas with serene settings.

Tales from the Dunes

The Indiana Dunes Blog

Did you know the Indiana Dunes has a 15-mile coastline with sandy beaches, more than 70 miles of hiking trails and more than 350 species of birds? Explore the latest and greatest tales from the dunes.

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Beaches

Dunes 101: How to Stay Safe in the Dunes

Check out these safety tips and guidelines about how to be a responsible visitor when enjoying the Indiana Dunes.

Discovery Trail

Snowshoeing in the Indiana Dunes National Park

Once the Indiana Dunes area is blanketed in a few inches of snow, you’ll start to see people traversing the parks’ trails on snowshoes.

Dunes 101

Dunes 101: Where to hike at the Indiana Dunes

Get up close with nature by exploring the more than 70 miles of trails that wind through the Indiana Dunes National and State Park.

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Bed & Breakfasts

Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods to award-winning romantic getaways surrounded by gardens.

Hotels & Inns

A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or a place you can bring your four-legged friend? Your unique getaway deserves a distinct accommodation.