Folks who aren’t Hoosiers often think we miss out because we aren’t on the coast. What they don’t know is that we have some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. During the summer, folks flock to the shores to cool off. But we love the beach for other reasons including walks on the Dune Succession Trail. The landscape is beautiful, but it’s the unexpected views of the water that we love most.
One of the most beautiful regions of the state is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.
Michael Gaughan / alltrails.com
The trails here offer incredible views and the ability to escape from regular life by taking some time in the fresh air.
Anna Z / alltrails.com
Best of all, you can explore much of the area year-round.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
One of the best ways to see the sights is by hiking the Dune Succession Trail in West Beach.
Anna Z / alltrails.com
The 1-mile loop is simple but somewhat challenging, so it’s also a good workout.
vxla / Flickr
The boardwalk trail, which leads over and through the dunes, includes a 100-foot elevation gain and 250 stairs.
Jenna Rollins / alltrails.com
Begin your journey by walking across a short initial boardwalk before continuing along the beach. This provides your first view of Lake Michigan.
Chrissi Darby / alltrails.com
Once you’ve gone over the steps and reached the longer boardwalk portion, things get much easier. This is when you’ll cross the dunes for some seriously beautiful views.
Tracy Mixdorf / alltrails.com
On warmer days you’ll appreciate the oak forest that provides some shade as you continue around the loop.
Phillip Glanz / alltrails.com While short, this boardwalk hike is one of the most satisfying and beautiful you can find here in Indiana.
The Dune Succession Trail is open every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. You can learn more about the area on the National Park Service website. Pets are permitted as long as they’re on a leash of at least 6-feet. While much of the area here is wheelchair accessible, the trails are not. If you have questions you can reach the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center on 219-395-1882.
Michael Gaughan / alltrails.com
Anna Z / alltrails.com
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
vxla / Flickr
Jenna Rollins / alltrails.com
Chrissi Darby / alltrails.com
Tracy Mixdorf / alltrails.com
Phillip Glanz / alltrails.com
While short, this boardwalk hike is one of the most satisfying and beautiful you can find here in Indiana.
There’s another trail that includes boardwalk walking. And it happens to be absolutely gorgeous! The 600-acre nature preserve in Indiana is home to more orchids than Hawaii.
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Address: Dune Succession Trail Loop, Gary, IN 46403, USA
