National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo
Indiana Dunes National Park
Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the park’s 16,000 acres.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
4.7 mi · 150 ft gain · out & back
A National Natural Landmark trail through diverse habitats — ponds, marshes, oak savannas, and sandy Lake Michigan beach.
Starts at: Cowles Bog Trailhead
0.9 mi · 75 ft gain · loop
Short loop demonstrating ecological dune succession from bare sand to jack pine forest with Lake Michigan access.
Starts at: West Beach Parking Area
3.4 mi · 100 ft gain · loop
Through wetlands and rare black oak savanna to dunes and Lake Michigan views with Chicago skyline on clear days.
Starts at: Paul H. Douglas Center
3.4 mi · 100 ft gain · loop
Historic homestead and working farm along the Little Calumet River with restored prairie.
Starts at: Bailly/Chellberg Parking Area
Upcoming Events
Lend a hand in our drop-in litter clean up program. Simply check in at the Visitor Center to receive trash bags, then choose from one of our many beach areas or hiking trails to collect trash. Visitors are awaited with a free, reusable water bottle for filling up their bags. Please leave trash at a trash can on the site you hiked. There will be temporary passes available for those volunteering during this event. For more information, visit our Fees & Passes page. This is part our drop-in program, a no-hassle volunteering option for those looking to give a few hours of their time. For other opportunities in volunteering at the Indiana Dunes National Park, please visit The Park Connection volunteer page.
Indiana Dunes: Nature’s Masterpiece, captured by Chesterton native Thad Donovan, invites viewers on a thrilling adventure through the breathtaking Indiana Dunes. Experience stunning panoramas of Lake Michigan, surrounded by towering dunes, winding trails, dense forests, and vibrant habitats. National Park Service rangers guide you on this unforgettable journey, revealing extraordinary examples of the region’s remarkable plant and animal life—like carnivorous pitcher plants, resilient cacti, and a spectacular array of over 350 bird species that call the dunes home or migrate through its skies. The film also uncovers fascinating local historical landmarks and geological wonders, transforming every moment into an exhilarating exploration of natural beauty and discovery. View time: 24 minutes. Accessibile embedded captions and audio descriptions.For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Park, call 219-395-1882 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/indu.
Lend a hand in our drop-in litter clean up program. Simply check in at the Paul H. Doulas Center to receive trash bags, then choose from one of our many beach areas or hiking trails to collect trash. Visitors are awaited with a free, reusable water bottle for filling up their bags. Please leave trash at a trash can on the site you hiked. There will be temporary passes available for those volunteering during this event. For more information, visit our Fees & Passes page. This is part our drop-in program, a no-hassle volunteering option for those looking to give a few hours of their time. For other opportunities in volunteering at the Indiana Dunes National Park, please visit The Park Connection volunteer page.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: April
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
On average, the warmest month is July and the highest recorded temperature was 105F in 1934. The coolest month is January, with the lowest recorded temperature of -25F in 1985. June sees the most precipitation with an average rainfall of 4.66 Inches.