sign in sign up
<<
Home , Black Oak (Gary), Brickyard (East Chicago), Calumet Park, Calumet Trail, Cowles Bog, Erie Lackawanna Trail

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

R E D N A W ∙ L E D D P A E ∙ B ∙ H I K I K E ∙ B I R D ∙ F I S H DUNES OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Lace up your hiking boots. Tie down the kayaks. Pack the fishing poles. And don’t forget your binoculars. It’s time for a new outdoor adventure—Indiana Dunes style.

While you may be familiar with Lake ’s Whether you prefer your adventures on land southern shoreline, you may not realize that or in the water, the Indiana Dunes is the there’s far more to discover beyond the place to take a chance on a new trek. Go beaches of the Indiana Dunes. The Indiana beyond the beaches and discover where Dunes area is a birding mecca in the spring, your Indiana Dunes journey takes you. a kayaker’s oasis on a hot summer day, and an angler’s dream on a crisp fall morning.

Accessible Camping Equestrian Fee Gift Shop/ Trails Sales

Hunting Pet-Friendly Restrooms/ Swimming Picnicking Portable Beach

Indiana Department Indiana Dunes Porter County Shirley Heinze of Natural Resources National Park Parks & Recreation Land Trust (DNR) (NPS)

Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission (NIRPC) Greenways + Blueways

“The dunes are to the Midwest what the Grand Canyon is to Arizona…They constitute a signature of time and eternity.” —poet Carl Sandburg

Discover #BeachesandBeyond outdoor adventures on social media!

2 beachoutdooradventures.com TABLE OF CONTENTS

ADVENTURES HIKING HIKING SAFETY TIPS 35 AT-A-GLANCE TOP 15 TRAILS 36 THE 3 DUNE CHALLENGE 41 BICYCLING BICYCLING SAFETY TIPS 9 PADDLING BICYCLE RENTALS 9 PADDLING SAFETY TIPS 43 BICYCLING TRAILS 10 PADDLING LOCATIONS 44 BIKES ON TRAINS 14 WATER TRAIL 44 INDIANA DUNES BICYCLING TOUR 15 EAST BRANCH LITTLE WATER TRAIL 45 NATIONAL WATER TRAIL 46 BIRDING WATER TAIL 48 LAKES OF LAPORTE WATER TRAIL 52 MIGRATION SENSATION 17 LONG LAKE AND CHAIN OF LAKES 52 WEATHER WATCH 17 PORTAGE LAKEFRONT 52 BIRDING LOCATIONS 18 ROGERS LAKEWOOD PARK 53 BACKPACKS FOR BIRDERS 23 FISHING WANDERING VISITOR INFORMATION 55 SEASONS 25 WANDERING LOCATIONS 56 BEST BAIT 26 FISHING LOCATIONS 26 EAST BRANCH LITTLE 26 PLACES TO STAY KANKAKEE RIVER 27 HOTELS, INNS, CAMPGROUNDS, & MORE 62 LAKE GEORGE 27 LAKE MICHIGAN 28 LAPORTE LAKES 29 SALT CREEK 29 SMALL CREEKS 29 SMALL LAKES 30 BAIT AND TACKLE SHOPS 31 BOAT RENTALS 32 Find us @IndianaDunes on CHARTER FISHERMEN 32 Twitter and Instagram IMPORTANT INFORMATION 33 and @IndianaDunesTourism on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.

beachoutdooradventures.com 3

ADVENTURES Use our handy chart to discover which locations are perfect for your AT A GLANCE favorite type of outdoor adventures.

p. 10 p. 18 p.26 p.36 p.44 p.56 Hiking Birding Fishing Beaches Paddling Bicycling Type of Outdoor Adventure Wandering

Alyea Park • Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve • American Discovery Trail • Aukiki Conservation Area • • • Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm • Barker Woods • Beverly Shores Project Area • Bicentennial Park • Bluhm County Park • Brincka-Cross Gardens • Broken Wagon Bison • Brookdale Park • • C&O Greenway • Calumet Bike Trail • • Campbell Street Access • Central Avenue Beach • • Central Park Plaza • Chustak Public Fishing Area • Coffee Creek Park • • Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve • • • • Countryside Park and Alton Goin Museum • • Cowles Trail • • Creek Ridge County Park • Creekside Trails • Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve • Dale B. Engquist Nature Preserve • Deep River County Park • Deep River Water Trail • Deer Trail Park • Drazer Park • 4 beachoutdooradventures.com p. 10 p. 18 p.26 p.36 p.44 p.56 Hiking Birding Fishing Beaches Paddling Bicycling Type of Outdoor Adventure Wandering

Dunbar Beach Access • • • Dune Succession Trail • Dunes Kankakee Trail • Dunn’s Bridge County Park • • • East Branch Little Calumet Water Trail • • East Marina • • • Festival Park • Forest Park • Foundation Meadows Park and Butterfly Meadows • Founders Square Park and Hannah’s Hope Playground • Friendship Botanic Gardens • Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest • • Gibson Woods Nature Preserve • Glenwood Dunes Trail • Gordon & Faith Greiner Nature Preserve • Grand Trail • Grand Kankakee County Park • • Great Marsh Trail • Hammond Lakefront Park and • • • Bird Sanctuary Hammond Marina • • Haven Hollow Park • Hawthorne Park • • Heron Rookery East • Heron Rookery Trail and Reynold’s Creek • • Heron Rookery West • Howe Road Bridge • Huber’s Annex Marina South • Imagination • • • Indiana Dunes National Park • • • • • • • • • • • • • Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center • • Indiana Dunes Visitor Center • • • Iron Horse Trail • Jasper- Fish and Wildlife Area • beachoutdooradventures.com 5 p. 10 p. 18 p.26 p.36 p.44 p.56 Hiking Birding Fishing Beaches Paddling Bicycling Type of Outdoor Adventure Wandering

Jerry Pavese Park • • Johnson Park • Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area • • • Kankakee River National Water Trail • • Kankakee Sands • Kankakee Sands Efroymson Family Prairie Restoration • Karwick Nature Park • Keith Richard Walner Nature Preserve • • Kemil Road Beach • • Kingsbury State Fish and Wildlife Area • Kingsbury Water Trail Access • Lake Michigan Water Trail • • Lake View Beach Access & Picnic Area • • Lakeland Park • • Lakes of LaPorte Water Trail • • LaSalle Fish and Wildlife Area • • Leo Jasinski Public Access • Lincoln Memorial Trail • Little Calumet River Levee Trail • Little Calumet River Trail • Long Lake Public Access • •

Luhr County Park •

Marina Shores at Dune Harbor • Marquette Greenway • • • • • Meadowbrook Conservation Center and Nature Preserve • Michigan City Harbor (Washington Park Marina) • • Mount Baldy • New Buffalo Beach & Boat Ramp • Oak Ridge Prairie & Oak Savannah Trail • Ogden Gardens Park • Outback Trail • Paul H. Douglas Trail and Miller Woods • • • Pine Lake Marina • • 6 beachoutdooradventures.com p. 10 p. 18 p.26 p.36 p.44 p.56 Hiking Birding Fishing Beaches Paddling Bicycling Type of Outdoor Adventure Wandering

Pinhook Bog & Upland Trail • Port of Indiana - Burns Harbor • • Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk • • • Portage Public Marina (Sammie L. Maletta Public Marina) • • • Porter Beach • • Porter-Brickyard Trail • Prairie Duneland Trail • Red Mill County Park • • Riverview Park • Rogers-Lakewood Park • • • Salt Creek Public Fishing Area • Seidner Dune and Swale • Shelby Boat Ramp • Soccer and Rugby Field • Soldiers Memorial Park • Steel Wheels BMX Track • Stone Lake Beach • • • Stoney Run County Park • Sunset Hill Farm County Park • • The 3 Dune Challenge • Thomas Centennial Park & Chesterton Bandstand • Dunes Trail • Trail Creek Forks • Trail Creek Marina • U.S. Bike Route #36 • Veterans Memorial Park • Veterans Memorial Trail • Washington Park Beach & Zoo • • • Wells Street Beach • • West Beach • • • • Westchester Migratory Bird Sanctuary • • Whiting Lakefront Park and Whihala Beach • • • • Winding Creek Cove • Woodland Park • Wykes Plampin Nature Preserve • • Zona Wildlife Sanctuary • beachoutdooradventures.com 7 BICYCLING

Local Expert

“The Outback Trail is a really wonderful trail that’s really close to Chicagoland… It’s definitely one of the better mountain biking trails in the country.” Learn more: indianadunes.com/bicycling - Quincy Koetz, Bicycling Expert

8 beachoutdooradventures.com BICYLING

Pedal at your own pace, and discover the natural wonders, historical sites, and charming communities just beyond the beach. Whether you’re a mountain biker, road warrior, or BMX biker, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Indiana Dunes area.

Bicycling Safety Tips Bicycle Rentals Be Alert and Stay Safe with These Safety Tips Camp Stop General Store This beach stop and general store offers • Wear a helmet and bright-colored clothing. bike, kayak, and paddle board rentals. • Ride on the right side of the road. 2 W. Dunes Highway (U.S.12), Beverly Shores • Ride single-file and predictably. 219-878-1382 • Watch for cars at intersections and driveways. Find them on Facebook • Riding after dark is not recommended, but wear Chesterton Bicycle Station reflective clothing and use a white headlight A multi-service and sales store for bicycles, and rear flashing red light if you do. skateboarders, and accessories including clothing, • Never use earphones because you helmets, shoes, and sunglasses. Factory trained won’t be able to hear traffic. service technicians on-site. Bike rentals available. • Select routes according to cyclist skill and age. 116 S. 4th St., Chesterton • Follow the rules of the road and cycling etiquette. 219-926-1112 • Keep your bicycle properly maintained. chestertonbicycle.com • Use hand signals before stopping or turning. Pedal Power Rentals Rent a Pedal Power bike to truly experience the PEDAL POWER RENTALS Indiana Dunes. Go where you want, when you want and at your own pace. Isn’t freedom far out? 1215 N. State Rd. 49, Porter 219-921-3085 pedalpowerrentals.com

CAMP STOP GENERAL STORE C&O Greenway Dunes Kankakee Trail C&O Greenway is a paved 1.9- This trail starts at the Indiana Dunes BICYCLING mile trail following the abandoned Visitor Center and goes north to Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad Indiana Dunes State Park on Lake corridor. The trail starts at Innsbrook Michigan. Eventually, the trail is TRAILS Country Club and passes through expected to link the dunes in the north American Discovery Trail residential areas in Merrillville. to the Kankakee River in the south, Part of the national trail system, the SR 55 (Taft St.) to Mississippi as well as going along the river. region-wide route links a number of in Merrillville 1215 N. State Rd. 49, Porter trails including the Pennsy Greenway 219-465-3332 219-395-1882 and Veterans Memorial Trail in Lake nirpc.org indianadunes.com County. The route becomes primarily rural east of Crown Point, through Hebron, Kouts, and LaCrosse. Munster to LaPorte Calumet Bike Trail Erie Lackawanna Trail 219-465-3332 This 9.2-mile crushed gravel trail At 17-miles in length, the Erie- nirpc.org skirts the southern boundaries Lackawanna Trail represents the of Indiana Dunes National Park longest contiguous off-road trail facility and Indiana Dunes State Park in . The paved from to Mount trail connects Hammond and Crown Bluhm County Park Baldy. The route parallels the Point, which were once important rail This 96-acre park features a 1.5-mile South Shore Rail Line. junctions. This trail connects to Oak multiple-use trail, as well as six miles U.S. 12 South, Beverly Shores Savannah Trail, Monon Trail, and the of challenging mountain biking trails. to N. Mineral Springs Rd. Little Calumet River Levee Trail. The park offers picnicking, shelter 219-465-3586 Hammond to Crown Point rentals, playground equipment, portercountyparks.org 219-465-3332 volleyball nets, cornhole (bring your nirpc.org own bags), and a no-leash dog exercise area. There is a small fee. 3855 S. 1100 West, Westville Creekside Trails 219-325-8315 This city park is home to over five laportecountyparks.org miles of multi-use trails suitable The 535-mile Grand Illinois Trail for mountain biking, hiking, loops through and and walking. The trails range in connects to the Pennsy Greenway difficulty from beginner level to Trail in Indiana. The trail is a mix of experienced with challenging terrain paved roads and limestone trails. and optional expert obstacles. Chicago, IL 2355 Clifford Rd., Valparaiso 219-465-3332 219-462-5144 nirpc.org valpoparks.org

10 beachoutdooradventures.com BICYLING

Imagination Glen Park Little Calumet River Levee Trail Monon Trail The 276-acre Imagination Glen This six-mile asphalt trail roughly Monon Trail is a 4.4-mile paved trail Park is home to the Outback follows the Little Calumet River and that connects the Erie Lackawanna Mountain Trail, a 10-mile mountain passes by several local parks. Most Trail to the Pennsy Greenway and biking trail. Beginners and novices of the trail is off-road, but some Little Calumet River Levee Trail. can try the Front Side loop, short segments are either on-road The Monon Trail Bridge, created while experts can take on the or atop river levees. It connects from historic rail trestle beams, Dark Side black diamond trail. to the Erie Lackawanna Trail. crosses over the Little Calumet 2275 McCool Rd., Portage Munster to Gary River. The trailhead in Munster 219-762-1675 219-465-3332 has seating areas and a fountain. inportageparks.com nirpc.org Hammond to Munster 219-465-3332 nirpc.org

Iron Horse Heritage Trail Marquette Greenway The five-mile Iron Horse Heritage The Marquette Greenway is a Trail runs east-west through the City planned regional trail made up of of Portage, from Imagination Glen 20 smaller trail segments. When Park east (where the Iron Horse all segments are complete, the connects with the Prairie Duneland trail will stretch 55-miles from the Trail) west to Hamstrom Road. Illinois border to New Buffalo, State Rd. 149 (0.75-mile MI, connecting Lake Michigan’s south of U.S. 20), Portage shoreline communities. 219-762-1675 Illinois to Michigan inportageparks.com 219-465-3332 nirpc.org

Lincoln Memorial Trail This 1.2 mile loop trail starts at Bluhm Park East near Westville. The trail has a paved and an unpaved portion, which run side- by-side, allowing hikers and bicyclists to share the road. 10335 W. 350 South, Westville 219-325-8315 laportecountyparks.org

IMAGINATION GLEN PARK U.S. BIKE ROUTE #36

Oak Ridge Prairie & Oak Savannah Trail Pennsy Greenway This beautiful 10-mile trail traverses through savannahs, Pennsy Greenway is a multi-use trail that remnant prairies, , lakes, parks, and urban runs between Lansing, IL and Schererville, environments. The trail starts at Oak Ridge Prairie County IN. This converted railway trail has three Park to the west, snakes through downtown Hobart, separate paved segments with eventual plans and connects to the Prairie-Duneland Trail to the east. to connect all portions into one trail. Pennsy Griffith to Hobart Greenway connects to Monon Trail. 219-465-3332 Lansing, IL to Crown Point nirpc.org 219-465-3332 nirpc.org

Outback Trail This is a 10-mile multi-use mountain biking trail in Porter-Brickyard Trail Portage's Imagination Glen Park. The trail is available The Porter-Brickyard Trail features forest for use by hikers, bikers, runners, and birdwatchers. views, bridges over U.S. 20 and U.S. 12, and Three miles on the western side of Salt Creek is a way to get from the Prairie Duneland Trail available for beginning–intermediate riders, and to the Calumet Bike Trail. Parking is available seven miles on the eastern side of Salt Creek is at U.S. 12 and Mineral Springs Rd. available for intermediate–advanced riders. U.S. 12 and Mineral Springs Rd., Porter 2275 McCool Rd., Portage 219-395-1882 219-762-1675 nps.gov/indu outbacktrail.org

12 beachoutdooradventures.com BICYLING

Prairie-Duneland Trail U.S. Bike Route #36 One of Indiana's "crown jewel" trails, the Prairie U.S. Bike Route #36 is a 58.7-mile regional route Duneland Trail traverses some of the most beautiful between Illinois and Michigan, which includes 35 miles natural areas in the state. The 10.3-mile rail-trail of off-road trails. The route starts in Hammond, IN passes through remnant tallgrass prairies, dense and connects to the Erie-Lackawanna Trail and runs forest canopies, river, and residential areas. The along the Oak-Savannah and Prairie-Duneland trails. trail connects to Imagination Glen Park. The route leads to the Indiana Dunes National Park S. Jackson Blvd., Chesterton and eventually terminates at the Michigan State line. to County Line Rd., Portage Southwest Michigan to Chicago 219-762-1675 219-465-3332 inportageparks.com nirpc.org

Steel Wheels BMX Track Veterans Memorial Trail Steel Wheels BMX, located in Imagination Glen Park This planned trail will run from Crown Point East, hosts ABA-sanctioned races on its indoor and to Hebron with stops at several current outdoor tracks. The facility includes a concession and planned veteran memorials. area, announcing tower, staging area, and finish Crown Point to Hebron line. Admission is free for spectators. Be sure to call 219-465-3332 ahead for detailed information on public riding. nirpc.org 2190 State Rd. 149, Portage 219-406-9833 steelwheelsbmx.com

STEEL WHEELS BMX TRACK

PORTER-BRICKYARD TRAIL

Shake Off the Sand South of the Dunes

Ride at your own pace, and explore the small-town charm, beautiful landscapes, and local flavor south of the dunes. Discover the self-guided Indiana Dunes Bike Tour at indianadunes.com/bike-tour.

READY TO RIDE? VISIT MYSOUTHSHORELINE.COM/BIKES BIKES ON FOR MORE INFORMATION. TRAINS Take your bike on labeled, bike-friendly trains available on select days from April to October. HOW TO RIDE

In three easy steps, you and your bike are on your way:

1 FIND A BIKE-FRIENDLY TRAIN CAR Bike-friendly train cars with bike racks are identified with the bike symbol prominently located on the windows of the train car.

2 GET YOUR BIKE ON THE TRAIN CAR Enter and exit the bike-friendly cars through the center doors and insert your bike into one of the self-locking bike racks. Bike racks are provided DUNE PARK STATION free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Junction of IN-49 and U.S. 12. 33 East U.S. 12, Chesterton 3 RIDE THE TRAIN 219-926-5744 Access trails and attractions along mysouthshoreline.com the southern shores of Lake Michigan from Chicago to South Bend.

Millennium Van Buren Museum Campus Lake Michigan Lake Michigan McCormick Place 57th Street

South Bend Hegewisch Indiana Dunes National Park

Dune Park Hammond Bicycle Permitted Station East Chicago Bicycles Not Permitted Station INDIANA DUNES BICYCLING TOUR Sand South of the Dunes... While best known for its world-class beaches, the Indiana Dunes and its surrounding communities offer so much more to explore. Culinary delights and exhilarating outdoor adventures are waiting for you.

Explore the small-town charm, beautiful landscapes, and local flavor south of the dunes on this self-guided bicycling tour. You can follow our itinerary or make it your own—ride just one part, break it up into an overnight adventure, or take on the whole route!

Day One: Ride from Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to Chesterton This six-mile tour takes you down the Porter Brickyard Trail and ends in downtown Chesterton where you can visit local breweries, wineries, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Day Two: Ride from Chesterton to Valparaiso This 26-mile tour follows Prairie Duneland Trail and several county roads on its way to Valparaiso. You’ll pass through Portage and Hobart, where you’ll find Broken Wagon Bison. The tour ends in downtown Valparaiso where you can stroll down Lincolnway to see its many restaurants, bars, and unique shops.

Day Three: Ride from Valparaiso to Lake View Beach This 22-mile leg of the tour continues through Valparaiso, passing by where you’ll find the Brauer Museum of Art and the Chapel of the Resurrection. The tour heads back north, ending with views of Lake Michigan at Lake View Beach.

Ready to get out and ride? Pick your route at indianadunes.com/bike-tour.

beachoutdooradventures.com 15 BIRDING

Local Expert

“Indiana Dunes State Park contains some of the best examples of the dunes habitats, and as such, also hosts the most bird species—not only in the Indiana Dunes Learn more: region, but the entire state.” indianadunes.com/birding - Brad Bumgardner, Birding Expert

16 beachoutdooradventures.com BIRDING

Drawn by the open waters of Lake Michigan and the surrounding beaches, dunes, wetlands, forests, and prairies, the Indiana Dunes offers spectacular birding throughout the year, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Migration Sensation Weather Watch

Why do so many birds migrate through here? The Migrating birds tend to fly during fair weather, massive size of Lake Michigan profoundly affects the especially when they have a good wind helping them flight routes of migratory birds. During the fall, birds that along. In the spring, birders tend to see the most have nested in the north follow the long shores of Lake migrating raptors on days with a strong southerly wind, Michigan further south and converge at the bottom and in the fall, frequent cold fronts funnel migrating of the lake—right here in the Indiana Dunes. Whether songbirds and waterbirds straight to the Indiana Dunes. they’re here to nest or just stopping for a rest, you’ll see birds seldom recorded anywhere else in the Midwest.

INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK

GREAT BLUE HERON AT COWELS BOG

Indiana Dunes Tourism expresses a heartfelt thanks to Ken Brock, Brad Bumgardner, and Sandra Wilmore for their local birding expertise and contributions to this guide. GREAT MARSH TRAIL

BIRDING LOCATIONS Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve Gabis Arboretum at Aukiki Wetland Conservation Area This beautiful 167-acre preserve This 650-acre parcel conserves a Purdue Northwest showcases an inspiring and mix of wetlands, barrens, Situated atop the , aesthetically stunning marriage and sand prairie, offering wildlife Gabis offers more than 300 acres of nature and culture. The natural viewing, hiking, and hunting. of woody plant collections, formal landscape includes a mix of Aukiki is part of the Indiana Grand gardens, wetlands, woodlands, and restored prairie, creek, wetlands, Kankakee Marsh Restoration prairies. Originally named Taltree and woodlands. Preserve planners Project. The Grand Kankakee Arboretum & Gardens, its founders have added human infrastructure Marsh was one of the largest envisioned Gabis as a place where to that natural setting and have freshwater wetland complexes in people could come to be refreshed done so with careful planning and the , encompassing and restored, find inspiration and exquisite attention to aesthetics, 500,000 acres in eight counties. creativity in nature, and learn function, and environmental State Rd. 49, Wheatfield about horticulture and ecology. responsibility. Interpretive signage 219-285-2184 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso enhances the experience. igkmrp.org 219-462-0025 2401 Village Point, Chesterton pnw.edu/gabis-arboretum 219-926-1842

coffeecreekwc.org Beverly Shores Project Area Great Marsh Trail Park at Lake View Picnic Area to Just a short stroll to an accessible bird the open water and beach. Bike Cowles Bog Trail observation platform provides a or bird from your vehicle along the Considered a globally significant great view of this recently restored west end of Beverly Drive. This area Important Bird Area (IBA), this wetland. Wading birds like herons includes beautiful open waters and site supports several nesting and egrets and songbirds such as beach habitats, but its most unique wetland birds that are species of warblers and red-winged blackbirds draw is its rare interdunal marsh. conservation concern in Indiana, are again abundant. During migration 500 S. Broadway Ave., including American Bittern, Sandhill periods, see flocks of ducks Beverly Shores Crane, Little Blue Heron, Black- and geese. Bring binoculars or a 219-395-1882 crowned Night Heron, Virginia spotting scope for the best views. heinzetrust.org Rail, American Black Duck, and a 500 S. Broadway Ave., large population of Marsh Wren. Beverly Shores 1618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter 219-395-1882 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu nps.gov/indu

18 beachoutdooradventures.com BIRDING

Hammond Lakefront Park and Jasper-Pulaski Fish Birding Ethics Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Area • Respect wildlife A truly unexpected find. A small, This gem of a wildlife area conserves 600-meter tract nestled in the 8,062 acres of wetland, upland, homes. Leave nests middle of an industrial area may not and woodland habitat, providing an and their occupants seem worth exploring, but this one ideal stopover for migratory birds. as you found them. is! Known by locals simply as the Beginning in late September, sandhill • In no-hunt areas, "migrant trap," the lakefront and cranes, Canada geese, ducks, bird sanctuary is a hidden birding and occasionally even federally blend in with your paradise. As you crisscross the endangered whooping cranes surroundings. Wear site on a narrow footpath, keep gather here. By mid-November— neutral-colored your eyes open for neotropical bird peak fall viewing time—daily crane clothing and move species that use this small space as counts swell to 15,000 or more. a critical stopover during migrations. Visitors are required to check in slowly and quietly. 701 Casino Center Dr., Hammond at the headquarters office. • Avoid the use of 219-853-6378 5822 Fish and Wildlife recordings, calls, or indianaaudubon.org Ln., Medaryville 219-843-4841 whistles to attract Heron Rookery Trail and in.gov/dnr birds, as they can Reynold’s Creek disrupt the birds’ For more than 60 years, herons normal feeding, nested here along the Little Calumet mating, and brood- River. Though the heron rookery is Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area no longer active, the 1.6-mile trail is Designated an Important Bird Area rearing activities. a good spot for viewing other bird by the National Audubon Society, • View birds from a species. National Park resource the 4,199-acre Kankakee Fish distance to avoid managers conduct prescribed burns and Wildlife Area is part of the disturbing them. to maintain open savanna habitat. Grand Kankakee Marsh region. 1320 N. 600 East, Michigan City 4320 W. Toto Rd., North Judson • Stay on trails and 219-395-1882 219-896-3522 respect private nps.gov/indu in.gov/dnr property. • Share your lunch only

with other humans. Indiana Dunes State Park Kankakee Sands The park attracts breeding birds Kankakee Sands conserves more Share your more commonly found farther south than 7,000 acres of prairie, savanna, adventures using (including WatchList species Prairie and wetlands—habitat for some of #beachesandbeyond. Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush), the fastest declining bird species in as well as more northerly species North America, including northern (Canada and Blackburnian bobwhite, grasshopper sparrow, Warblers). Migration sightings and American bittern. Kankakee include such WatchList species Sands is also home to several as Kirtland’s, Golden-winged, and bird species that are endangered Bay-breasted Warblers. The west or threatened in Indiana. lot observation area is known for 3294 N. U.S. 41, Morocco several state record species counts. 219-285-2184 There is a small entrance fee. nature.org/kankakeesands 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton 219-926-1952 in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm

RED-SHOULDERED HAWK AT GREAT MARSH TRAIL INDIANA DUNES BIRDING FESTIVAL

Site 103

Marquette Park Paul H. Douglas Trail and West Beach This 241-acre park is considered Miller Woods The Dune Succession Trail links an Important Bird Area due Birders consider this 75-acre with two others in the national to its location at the extreme natural oasis near the industry park system, covering a total of southern point of Lake Michigan and urban environs of Gary 3.6 miles. As the name suggests, and its beach, dune, and among the best birding sites in this trail is a great place to see oak savanna habitats. the region. Black oaks dominate ecological dune succession at work. 1 N. Grand Blvd., Gary savanna woodlands that are See amazing dunes, and interdunal 219-938-7362 home to 287 recorded species close up as you traverse marquetteparkgary.org of plants and animals. Ecologist a mile along the boardwalks. Henry Cowles spent much time 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary studying the Miller Woods area. 219-395-1882 100 N. Lake St., Gary nps.gov/indu Michigan City Harbor 219-395-1824 (Washington Park Marina) nps.gov/indu This harbor is a favorite lakefront birding site just miles from the Westchester Migratory Michigan State line in Northwest Bird Sanctuary Indiana. East of Trail Creek, low Port of Indiana - Burns Harbor Impressive restoration work dunes offer prime viewing of heavy Why include a major industrial continues to make this former bird movement along the lake. site among the best cultural and dumping site a shorebird sanctuary, 200 Heisman Harbor Rd., natural sites in the Beyond the suitable for migrating birds to rest, Michigan City Beach region? Because this site feed, and prepare for their continued 219-872-1712 offers a captivating look at both journeys. A parking lot, picnic mcmarina.org the nature and culture of this shelter, and benches have all been region. Twelve steel processors recently added. Elevated walkways dominate the port landscape, for bird enthusiasts continue to be and the site’s protected waters constructed. See not only species attract great numbers of common to the area but also rare migrating and wintering birds. migratory types. 6625 S. Boundary Dr., Portage 1050 S. 11th St., Chesterton portsofindiana.com 219-763-2401 westchesterbird.org

20 beachoutdooradventures.com BIRDING

A Birder’s Paradise “Little did I know, an oasis was right WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH under my nose...What I usually saw AT MILLER WOODS from the Interstate was Industrial plants and refineries...Not exactly the landscape I equate with forests, dunes, , and wildlife such as birds.”

– Jan Lewis, Birding Enthusiast

Find more birding adventures at indianadunes.com/birding

WOOD DUCK AT WEST BEACH Chesterton Feed and Garden Center Relax and browse in a friendly atmosphere only ten minutes from the shores of Lake Michigan.

FREE Known for their pleasant and knowledgeable Suet cake with staff and time-tested products. any purchase

Just some of what we specialize in: While supplies last. Limit one coupon • Lawn care products and supplies per family. Valid only on 12oz or smaller size suet cake. No substitutions apply. sku: BGSUET • Pet food and pet care items Must be presented at time of purchase. • Water, vegetable, and floral gardening • Wild bird feed, feeders, and houses • Garden decor and nature-themed gifts

400 Locust Street • Chesterton, IN • 219-926-2790 • chestertonfeed.com BIRDING

Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center Backpacks for Birders 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton 219-926-1390 The Backpacks for Birders program offers on.in.gov/indianadunessp free rental backpacks for daily use. Each pack contains two sets of binoculars, a birding list, Indiana Dunes Visitor Center and three books: Birding Basics, Sibley’s Field 1215 N. St. Rd. 49, Porter Guide to Birds, and Birds of the Indiana Dunes. 219-395-1882

indianadunes.com Visit any of the locations below to borrow a backpack. Just leave your name and contact information, Paul H. Douglas Center for and get to birding. The best part is, it’s free! Environmental Education 100 N. Lake St., Gary 219-395-1821 Call for Hours and Info: nps.gov/indu

Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve 2401 Village Pt. Rd., Chesterton 219-926-1842 coffeecreekwc.org

Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso 219-462-0025 pnw.edu/gabis-arboretum

BIRDING AT THE INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK 23 FISHING

Local Expert “People are always surprised when I tell them my favorite fishing is in the winter along the Little Calumet River in the Indiana Dunes National Park. You get to share nature with Learn more: the deer, turkeys, and, of course, the fish.” indianadunes.com/fishing - Mike Ryan, Fishing Expert

24 beachoutdooradventures.com FISHING

During the last Ice Age, glaciers created diverse regions stretching from wide-open Lake Michigan to the shores of the Kankakee River. Here, you can fish Lake Michigan tributaries winding through community parks and secluded nature, or head out for some quiet boat or shore fishing on the smaller lakes and streams dotting the landscape south of the dunes.

Seasons Spring From March to mid-May, fishermen troll with Fall spoons, spinners, dodgers, and flies for coho From September to early November, lake trout and salmon along a two-mile band of Lake Michigan brown trout can be caught along the shoreline. Indiana’s shore. Shoreline anglers say that April is the stocking program supports sport fishing in the fall, but best month for catching Coho in the spring. for the greatest concentration of fish, head to the Port of Indiana, which is close to a major stocking site. Summer From May to July, as water temperatures rapidly Winter increase, boat fishermen pursue trout and salmon From January through March, fishing is popular on that have retreated to cooler offshore waters. inland lakes, fast-current streams, and warm water Fishing at depths ranging between 70 and 100 discharges along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Warm water feet with a distance of six to 20 miles from shore, discharge fishing produces good catches of brown downriggers are used to drop lures for lake trout in addition to steelhead and coho salmon. trout, coho salmon, chinook, and steelhead.

WINTER FISHING ON LAKE MICHIGAN

Indiana Dunes Tourism would like to express heartfelt thanks to Ryan Koepke and Mike and Janet Ryan for their contribution to the information in this guide. LAKE MICHIGAN

FISHING LOCATIONS Best Bait Heron Rookery West • To fish salmon, most East Branch Little 1301 N. 450 East, Chesterton anglers use a medium- Calumet River 219-395-1882 heavy action rod with a 10 The Little Calumet River meanders nps.gov/indu to 12-pound test line. through woodlands from Porter • Flies with the most success County to LaPorte County with salmon, trout, bass, bluegill, include black or brown carp, and catfish as the most Portage Public Marina (Sammie L. stoneflies, chartreuse Maletta Public Marina) common catches. Spots to fish flies, green and orange include a number of town parks 1200 Marina Way, Portage wooly worms, egg sucking that have shoreline fishing. 219-763-6833 ci.portage.in.us leeches, and many others Deer Trail Park depending upon the time of

Ameriplex Dr., Portage year and the presentation 219-762-1675 inportageparks.com Red Mill County Park of the flies to the fish. 0185 S. Holmesville Rd., LaPorte • Medium spoons, plugs, 219-325-8315 spinners, and body baits laportecountyparks.org are used for Chinook. Hawthorne Park 500 Ackerman Dr., Porter • Nightcrawlers and wax 219-983-1042 worms are often successful, Wykes Plampin Nature Preserve townofporter.com especially in summer. Brummit Rd., Chesterton • Small spinners or rooster tails 219-24 2-8558 heinzetrust.org work well for steelhead. Heron Rookery East • Smaller spoons and spinners 1336 N. 600 East, Michigan City are used for Coho. 219-395-1882 • Spawn sacks are used nps.gov/indu throughout the year.

26 beachoutdooradventures.com FISHING

Kankakee River Lake George Farthest south in the region lies the This large lake in Hobart has Kankakee River, where northern pike, largemouth bass, bowfin, catfish, catfish, walleye, bass, and bluegill green sunfish, bluegill, carp, are common. Fishing the Kankakee and drum. There is a concrete is a place to immerse yourself in boat launch, but also a number nature for a quiet experience. of fishing piers at the city parks Consult the Indiana Department that surround the lake. of Natural Resources’ website Aukiki Wetland and guides before fishing Conservation Area Jerry Pavese Park in the Indiana Dunes or State Rd. 49, Wheatfield 500 S. Lake Park Ave., Hobart 219-285-2184 219-942-2987 surrounding areas. Information igkmrp.org cityofhobart.org on the website includes fishing reports, an interactive “Where

to Fish” map, the state fishing

Dunn’s Bridge County Park guide, and special rules and 500 E. and the Kankakee River, Kouts regulations. Daily bag limits, 219-465-3586 minimum sizes, and fish portercountyparks.com consumption advisories are all regularly updated on the DNR website at in.gov/dnr/fishwild. Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park 21690 Range Line Rd., Hebron 219-769-7275 LITTLE CALUMET RIVER lakecountyparks.com

Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area 4320 W. Toto Rd., North Judson 574-896-3522 in.gov/dnr/fishwild

Kingsbury State Fish and Wildlife Area 5344 S. Hupp Rd., LaPorte 219-393-3612 in.gov/dnr/fishwild

LaSalle Fish and Wildlife Area 4752 W. 1050 North, Lake Village 219-992-3019 in.gov/dnr/fishwild

Share your catch of the day: tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond Hammond Marina Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Lake Michigan 701 Casino Center Dr., Hammond 6150 U.S. 12 (100 Riverwalk Dr.), With 43 miles of shoreline in 219-659-7678 Portage Indiana, Lake Michigan is a fishing hammondmarina.com 219-395-1882 adventure waiting to happen. The nps.gov/indu most common catches include

coho and chinook salmon,

steelhead, and smallmouth. Marina Shores at Dune Harbor

6159 S. Dune Harbor Dr., Portage Washington Park Beach & Zoo East Chicago Marina 219-762-5700 6 on the Lake, Michigan City 3301 Aldis St., East Chicago marinashoresindiana.com 219-873-1506 219-391-8482 michigancityparks.com eastchicago.com

Marquette Park 1 N. Grand Blvd., Gary Whiting Lakefront Park and Hammond Lakefront Park 219-938-7362 Whihala Beach and Bird Sanctuary marquetteparkgary.org 1561 Park Rd., Whiting 701 Casino Center Dr., Hammond 219-659-0860 219-853-6378 whitingindiana.com indianaaudubon.org Port of Indiana - Burns Harbor 6625 S. Boundary Dr., Portage

219-787-8636 portsofindiana.com

28 beachoutdooradventures.com FISHING

LaPorte Lakes Salt Creek Small Creeks Pine and Stone Lakes total 564 Running north to south through Creeks in the Indiana Dunes acres, and largemouth bass, the South Haven area of Porter are wonderful spots for fly- bluegill, redear, perch, and walleye County, Salt Creek offers peaceful fishing and for catching trout. are common between the two shoreline fishing. Largemouth bass, Coffee Creek provides a rural connected lakes. Boat rentals are salmon, and trout are common. fishing experience unique from available from Pine Lake Marina Two state public fishing areas are other creeks in the area. and Huber’s Annex South. maintained along the creek. Coffee Creek Park Huber’s Annex Marina South Chustak Public Fishing Area 246 E. Morgan Ave., Chesterton 1207 Pink Lake Ave., LaPorte W. 600 North Rd., Valparaiso 219-926-1842 800-374-8985 219-879-5710 chestertonin.org hubersmarine.com fishing.IN.gov

Haven Hollow Park 330 W. 700 North, South Haven Coffee Creek Pine Lake Marina 219-759-5471 Watershed Preserve 908 Pine Lake Ave., LaPorte portagetrustee.org 2401 Village Point, Chesterton 219-649-1136 219-926-1842 boatpinelake.com coffeecreekwc.org

Imagination Glen Park 2275 McCool Rd., Portage 219-762-1675 Soldiers Memorial Park inportageparks.com 250 Pine Lake Ave., LaPorte 219-326-9600 cityoflaporte.com Salt Creek Public Fishing Area W. 500 North Rd., Valparaiso 219-879-5710 Stone Lake Beach fishing.IN.gov 300 Grangemouth Rd., LaPorte 219-326-9600 cityoflaporte.com

PORTAGE LAKEFRONT AND RIVERWALK Long Lake Public Access Creek Ridge County Park Small Lakes 7943 W. 400 North, Michigan City You’ll find no shortage of peaceful E. 600 North Rd., Valparaiso 219-879-5710 219-325-8315 ponds and lakes for your fishing laportecountyparks.org adventures. Fishing pole rentals fishing.in.gov are available at Luhr County Park and Rogers-Lakewood Park, and Luhr County Park 3178 S. 150 West, LaPorte both Rogers-Lakewood Park Karwick Nature Park and Lakeland Park offer rowboat 219-324-5855 laportecountyparks.org 700 S. Karwick Rd., and paddleboat rentals. Michigan City

219-873-1506 Brookdale Park michigancityparks.com 919 N. 50 West, Chesterton Rogers Lakewood Park 219-465-3586 Trail Creek Forks porterco.org 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso 219-462-5144 U.S. 20, just east of Johnson Rd., valpoparks.org Michigan City Countryside Park and 219-873-1506 Alton Goin Museum in.gov/dnr/fishwild 5250 U.S. 6, Portage

219-762-1675 inportageparks.com Trail Creek Trail Creek Marina Trail Creek is a tributary of Lake 700 E. Michigan Blvd., Michigan City Michigan with many types of fishing, 219-879-4300 Lakeland Park including fly fishing, spin fishing, 1200 Lakeland Dr., Burns Harbor and drift/float fishing. Rainbow 219-787-8126 trout, steelhead, brown trout, burnsharbor-in.gov and Coho and chinook salmon Winding Creek Cove are most commonly caught. East 8th St. and North Dickson St., Michigan City 219-873-1506 michigancityparks.com 30 beachoutdooradventures.com FISHING

Bait and Tackle Shops

Bass Pro Shop 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr., Portage 219-787-6800 basspro.com

Cabela’s 7700 Cabela Dr., Hammond 219-845-9040 cabelas.com

Chief’s Bait Shop and Tony’s Motors 1114 W. 4th St., Michigan City 219-874-4086 tonysoutboard.com LAKE MICHIGAN

Country Bait & Taxidermy 2 ½ W. U.S. 6, Valparaiso 219-464-9932 Find them on Facebook

Fish-On Slez’s Bait & Tackle Portage's Annual Outdoor and Fishing Show 2245 Randolph St., Lake Station 219-588-5929 Every February, the Greater Portage Chamber of Commerce, Find them on Facebook in collaboration with Sea Quest Lures, hosts its Annual Fishing and Outdoor Show. All outdoor events are showcased Stan’s Bait & Tackle including hunting, fishing, snowshoeing, archery, kayaking, 8200 Blvd., hiking, bird watching, and more. Seminars, booths, a Highland children's area, and other activities are offered. 219-315-0303 Find them on Facebook

2100 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 219-762-3300 portageinchamber.com

WASHINGTON PARK BEACH & ZOO PORT OF INDIANA - BURNS HARBOR SALT CREEK Captain Ralph Boat Rentals Steiger Charters 219-688-3593 CMS Marine Boat captainsteiger.com and Jet Ski Rentals 6159 Dune Harbor Grab Your Fly Charters (at Marina Shores), Portage 630-866-1964 219-508-3195 grabyourflycharters.com cmsmarinerentals.com Rainmaker Charters Miller’s Marine Center 219-762-9336 or 800-762-9336 1305 State Road 249, lakemichigansportfishing.com Portage 219-762-8767 Schellfish Sportfishing Charters mwmarina.com 708-672-4454 schellfishcharters.com

Charter Triplecatch Charters Fishermen 219-588-5929 Find them on Facebook Brother Nature Charter Fishing Wild Dog Tackle & 877-725-6665 Good Guyde Service brother-nature.com 847-420-3046 wilddogguide.com

Charter Boat Fishing

Head to Portage and hook up with one of the many charter boat companies. Discover Lake Michigan’s hot spots, where you can catch salmon, trout, and perch. Most charter boat companies offer both half day and full day charters. Charter fishing season begins early March and concludes early December. All the fishing gear is provided by the charter boat companies.

Just remember to… • Check to see if your charter boat sells fishing licenses and trout stamps. • Bring a large cooler and plastic bags to store fish. • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, soft-soled shoes, and a hat. • Pack snacks and drinks or ask if lunch is provided when booking. • Wear warm clothing and rain gear.

32 www.beachoutdooradventure.com FISHING

Important Information Fishing Licenses Unless otherwise exempted, you must have a valid fishing license to fish in public lakes, streams, rivers, or tributaries in Indiana or its boundary waters. A valid trout/salmon stamp is also required to fish for or take trout and salmon from public waters. License holders must carry their license while fishing and present it upon request to any authorized law enforcement official.

How to buy a license: For information on purchasing a fishing license, contact the Indiana DNR Customer Service Center. You can purchase a license online, by mail, over the phone, or in person at one of approximately 500 locations statewide.

Department of Natural Resources Customer Service Center 402 W. Washington St., Room W160, Indianapolis 317-232-4200 eregulations.com/indiana/fishing

You don’t need a license to fish if… • You’re an Indiana resident born before April 1, 1943. • You’re under the age of 18. • You have a developmental disability. • You’re legally blind. • You’re a resident of a state-owned mental rehabilitation facility. • You’re a resident of any licensed healthcare facility in Indiana. • You’re a resident engaged in full-time military service on approved military leave.

Please Protect Our Waters • Avoid in-water hull scraping. Paints used on hulls discourage marine growth and can be harmful to aquatic organisms. • Do not dump unused minnows into the water. Some may be unwanted species that mature and cause problems. Instead, discard unused bait in the trash. • Equipment should be dry for five days before being used in another body of water. • Inspect your boat and trailer to prevent the spread of invasive species. • All equipment should have mud and vegetation removed. Water should also be drained from the boat’s bilge, bait buckets, and other water-holding areas. • Keep your engine tuned to minimize leaks and look for contractors or marinas that offer a bilge pump-out service. beachoutdooradventures.com 33 HIKING

Local Expert

“We love the Dune Succession Trail at West Beach, which features a moderate hike including several scenery changes, from Learn more: dunes and a view of Chicago’s skyline.” indianadunes.com/hiking - Switchback Kids, Hiking Experts

34 beachoutdooradventures.com HIKING

From leisurely strolls to hardy hikes, the Indiana Dunes area is a biodiverse landscape of dunes, barrens, prairies, forests, and wetlands packed with great sites to explore. Climb a living dune or walk amongst the native plants and wildflowers that inspired the birth of ecology. For a change of scenery, you can even take a walk through the area’s many historic sites, museums, preserves, and parks.

Hiking Safety Tips The Recommends Hiking Smart

• Call or stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to ask about the trail conditions. • Bring a compass, map, or GPS. • Wear sturdy and durable shoes. • Choose appropriate clothing for the season. • Wear sunscreen or clothing that protects from the sun. • Bring enough water to stay hydrated. • Don’t forget to bring snacks to keep your energy up. • Spray for mosquitoes and check for ticks. • Be courteous and cautious on the trails. • Let the slowest hiker in your party set the pace and take breaks often. • Keep track of the time and distance. • Be aware of wildlife in the area.

INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK TOP TRAILS

Cowles Bog Trail 4.5+ miles, several trails DUNE ACRES Lake Michigan (private property) Cowles 15Many Indiana Dunes hiking trails offer cycling 0.2 mi Bog 0.4 mi Trailhead and cross-country skiing, as well as horseback P 0.5 mi

riding. Visit trail websites for more information. 0.5 mi Rd . 0.3 mi 0.8 mi Sp ri ng s l 0.6 mi 0.3 mi

Greenbelt Mi nera Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve NIPSCO Trailhead Property Calumet 5.5+ miles, several trails. P Trail 0.9 mi

12 Sidewalk Rd. (1050 North) Enter or exit from P 49 northbound e D r. P lane only Coffee Creek Kel l Embark on the 4.5 miles of interconnected Life Center Chesterton Amphitheater trails at Cowles Bog. You can choose a short, Pavilion moderate hike through wetlands, a longer 49 hike into the forested dunes, or a challenging oi nt

P Phillips az a

e Pl excursion all the way down to the shoreline. er illa g

V 1618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter Wat Weir Bridge Creek P Overlook 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu Dickinson Rd.

Trellis Voyage Overlook Blvd. Deep River County Park 7+ miles, several trails.

County Line Rd

Canoe Launch oi nt P

49

k

e

Vill ag e e

r Deep River C

e e ff o C P

Entrance Roa d ll To IN

Gateway Blvd. P Visitor Center 90 Entrance

Deep River County Park offers a mix of history, A five-mile trail system provides the chance for a fast natural beauty, and pure fun within its 1,200-acre hike, leisurely walk, or even some great cross-country site. Park visitors can explore Wood’s Grist Mill skiing in the winter. A total of 157-acres showcase and the neighboring Deep River Visitor Center, a stunning mixture of nature and architecture. housed in a 1904 church. Trails lead from here 2401 Village Point, Chesterton to lovely natural areas throughout the park. 219-926-1842 9410 Old Lincoln Hwy., Hobart coffeecreekwc.org 219-947-1958 36 beachoutdooradventures.com lakecountyparks.com HIKING

Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest Glenwood Dunes Trail Visitor Center P 3+ miles, several trails. 9.5+ miles, several trails 100 North Visitor Entrance 0.4 mi 0.1 mi 12 0.4 mi oa d R Railway 0.6 mi Garden Heron Pond/ & Depot 0.7 mi Meyer Pavilion Kemil 500 West 500 0.4 P 0.1 mi Native Plant Garden e Ro ad Hitz Family 0.4 mi 0.3 mi

Rose Garden Teal Furnessville Road 1.5 mi 0.2 mi 0.3 mi Window on 0.2 mi the Wetland 0.3 mi 20 275 Ea st 200 Ea st 150 Ea st P 0.3 mi 0.3 mi 0.5 mi 0.3 mi 0.3 mi 0.6 mi 0.6 mi

Situated atop the Valparaiso moraine, Gabis Formerly called “Ly-co-ki-we” which is said offers more than 300 acres of woody plant to mean “sandy ground” in the Miami Indian collections, formal gardens, wetlands, language, you can guess what you’ll encounter woodlands, and prairies. Originally named on this 6.4-mile trail. Several cutoff trails offer Taltree Arboretum & Gardens, its founders shorter loop alternatives. The main trail crosses envisioned Gabis as a place where people ancient beach dunes, which mark the shores of could come to be refreshed and restored, an earlier and larger version of Lake Michigan. find inspiration and creativity in nature, and 1475 N. Brummitt Rd., Chesterton learn about horticulture and ecology. 219-395-1882 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso nps.gov/indu 219-462-0025 pnw.edu/gabis-arboretum

COWLES BOG TRAIL Imagination Glen Park 10-mile bike trail, several miles of paved hiking trails

The Log Jam Hyde’s 7 Hills

Dark Side MARSH (Advanced) Salt Creek Experienced mountain bike riders only.

Shelter P OPEN FIELD Trail MARSH Head Main Kiosk Shelter Entrance P Shelter 149

Iron Horse Heritage Trail McCool Rd. McCool

The largest park in the Portage Park system, 256-acre Imagination Glen Park is home to the 10-mile Outback Mountain Bike Trail. Woodlands cover much of the property, with Salt Creek meandering through the center. The park contains a unique and uncommon community of plant species. Salt Creek has not been channelized, so it offers natural habitat for aquatic plants and animals. 2275 McCool Rd., Portage 219-762-1675 inportageparks.com PAUL H. DOUGLAS AND MILLER WOODS

Indiana Dunes State Park Little Calumet River Trail 16.5+ miles total, seven loop trails 2.1+ miles, several trails. Bailly 10 4 Mt. Holden Cemetery 7 8 12 P 8 8 4 0.3 mi Headquarters Lake Michigan Mt. Tom Complex 8 Mt. Jackson Oak Hill Rd. Mineral Springs Rd. Pavilion 7 Devil’s Side # Trail Number 0.1 mi P 8 0.2 mi 4 0.2 mi 7 LIttle Calumet Nature River Trail 0.1 mi P Center 0.3 mi 0.3 mi Bailly/ Chellberg Dunes P Chellberg Farm P Learning Center Trails Bailly/ 1.0 mi Chellberg Shelter Visitor Center

Gate P House Lit er tle Cal iv umet R 20 49 P Entrance 0.9 mi

The park's 16.5 miles of trails allow you to explore The Little , located in the Indiana multiple habitats. And of course the beaches Dunes National Park, is part of a 3.9-mile themselves offer great walking and wildlife network of hiking trails that connect the Bailly viewing. Scan the open water for ships, look for Homestead, Chellberg Farm, and the Dunes treasures in the sand at your feet, watch birds on Learning Center. The trail passes through 120 the open water or feeding at the water's edge, acres of restored tallgrass prairie—a once- and take in the sweeping backdrop of the dunes. widespread habitat, now rare in Indiana— 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton then skirts the Little Calumet River valley 219-926-1952 and crosses the river. Follow a boardwalk in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm through wet bottomlands before climbing to a hardwood forest and pine plantation. 401 Howe Rd., Porter 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu

38 beachoutdooradventures.com HIKING

Paul H. Douglas Trail and Miller Woods Red Mill County Park 1.1 miles, several trails 2.5 miles, several trails

Holmesville Rd. Round .27 mi Lake 0.1 mi 0.2 mi P P Marsh .3 mi Overlook 0.2 mi 0.1 mi Main Entrance The Paul H. Nature Preserve Douglas Center for P Environmental 2.5 mi Education 0.5 mi

To U.S. 12

Lake St. To State Rd. 2

Norfolk-Southern Railroad

Black oaks dominate savanna woodlands Part of the LaPorte County Parks system, that are home to 287 recorded species of this park encompasses 160 acres of forests, plants and animals. Ecologist Henry Cowles meadows, wetlands, and open water, including spent much time studying the Miller Woods the headwaters of the Little Calumet River. area. Hike or ski the 1.1-mile loop trail, which The park also includes a 108-acre nature leads past an overlook of a marsh that teems preserve with 2.5 miles of hiking trails that with wildlife, including rare blue-spotted traverse the preserve’s varied habitats. In salamanders and western chorus frogs. spring, watch for spotted coralroot, a delicate 100 N. Lake St., Gary orchid that grows in the oak woodlands here. 219-395-1882 0185 S. Holmesville Rd., LaPorte nps.gov/indu 219-325-8315 Laportecountyparks.org

Rogers-Lakewood Park Stoney Run County Park 2.5+ miles, several trails. 8+ miles, several trails Anderson Rd. (600 N) 137th Ave. Park Perimeter Shelter Nature Walk Office Trail Natural Area P Shelter P Fitness Trail Meadow Perimeter Trail

Shelter Nature Marsh Shelter P Trail Natural Area Boat Rentals P Gate House P Nature P Trail Shelter Shelter Concession Rough Pond Stand Loomis Lake Campbell St./Meridian Rd. Campbell St./Meridian Accessible Fishing Pier P P 145th Ave. 142nd Ave. Shelter

Nestled on 122 acres of rolling woodlands on Stoney Run County Park encompasses 316 Valparaiso’s northwest side, this park offers acres of oak-hickory woodlands, ponds, picnic pavilions, sledding hill, a disc golf ravines, and open meadows. Visitors can course, and a skateboard park. Lakewood Link, picnic by the water and hike or ski on eight a two-mile foot/bike trail connects Rogers- miles of trails. A trail around the park’s Lakewood Park to Foundation Meadows. The perimeter is open to horseback riding. The rolling terrain and size of this park make it a park’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors great destination for nature enthusiasts. Two U.S. citizens who fought in the Vietnam War lakes offer fishing, boating (paddle and rowboat and pays tribute to the 261 Lake County rentals available), and wildlife viewing. The park servicemen who died during that conflict. has many mature trees, from park-like stands 9230 E. 142nd Ave., Hebron with mowed grass to natural oak forest. Native 219-769-7275 wildflower plantings offer enjoyment to visitors lakecountyparks.com and hungry birds. There is an entrance fee. 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso 219-462-5144 valpoparks.org Sunset Hill Farm County Park Tolleston Dunes Trail 10+ miles, several trails 2.6+ miles, several trails 12 6 P

12 Inland Marsh Overlook P 0.4 mi

Main Entrance P 0.4 mi 0.2 mi

Murray Woods 1.0 mi 0.4 mi

Amphitheater

This scenic trail leads up and down the high

Meridian Rd. Meridian ridges of the Tolleston Dunes, formed about 10,000 years ago when Lake Michigan was 25 feet higher than it is today. In just 2.6 miles, this trail in the Indiana Dunes National Park traverses a number of different, beautiful, and wildlife-rich habitats, including black oak savanna, and remnants of the Great Marsh. 5800 U.S. 12, Portage 219-395-1882 Shelter nps.gov/indu

County Road 700 N Gate

Dune Succession Trail 3.6+ miles total, three loop trails Sunset Hill Farm County Park is a lovely 235-acre park with a primitive campground, Lake Michigan 0.5 mi Dune Succession Trail Loop 0.9 mi several miles of trails, picnic and play areas, 0.2 mi 0.1 mi and an amphitheater. The park's hiking P West Beach Trail Loop 1.4 mi trails traverse both prairie and woodland, Long Lake 0.2 mi 0.6 mi where you can see birds and other wildlife. Trail Loop 0.1 mi 1.6 mi P A working dairy farm until 1978, the park 0.8 mi 0.3 mi still grows demonstration crops as part of its County Line Rd. Long Lake

educational mission to cultivate respect and Entrance 0.5 mi understanding for the earth's natural resources. Marquette 12 Michigan City 20.3 mi Trail 775 Meridian Rd., Valparaiso Gary 7.7 mi 219-465-3586 portercountyparks.org Start with the Dune Succession Trail at West Beach and link with two other trails in the national park system, covering a total of 3.6 miles. Climb up over 250 stairs for a moderately WEST BEACH DUNE SUCCESSION TRAIL challenging hike with one of the best views in all the dunes area. Once you're at the top, take in expansive views of Lake Michigan and the distant Chicago skyline. As the name suggests, this trail is a great place to see ecological dune succession at work. Numbered posts along the trail are part of a self-guided interpretive trail. 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu

40 beachoutdooradventures.com HIKING The 3 Dune Challenge is just an hour drive from Chicago.

ILLINOIS Chicago Lake Michigan Trail number 20 3 Dune Challenge 94 loop (1.5 miles) 90 12 Chesterton Mt. Holden 80 Optional return 80 184 feet 49 7 trail (.4 miles) 65

INDIANA tMt. oTom 4 Mt. Jackson Continue 176 feet 8 to pavilion 192EL. 192feet (.5 miles) 8 8

Shortcuts START/FINISH back 7 Nature Center

4

8 Campground

REWARD YOURSELF After you conquer the challenge, buy a 3 Dune Challenge shirt or hoodie and pick up a free sticker from the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, 1215 N. State Rd. 49, Porter, IN 46304.

You can conquer The 3 Dune Challenge any day of the week, all year round. Learn more at GO VERTICAL indianadunes.com/3dc. Challenge yourself, your friends, and your family to climb the three tallest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. The 1.5- mile challenge trail is the toughest in the park, with 552 vertical feet to climb. The reward: breathtaking views and the title of dune conqueror!

Hiking up the three highest sand dunes isn't easy, but The 3 Dune Challenge is fun for all ages because it’s an outdoor adventure you can each do at your own pace.

The challenge can be done any day of the week at the Indiana Dunes State Park. There is an entrance fee at the park, but once inside, there are no additional costs. The self-guided hike begins at the Nature Center. Take plenty of water and if you get tired, stop for a rest or take a shortcut back to the Nature Center.

• Walk it or run it. • Go solo or bring your pet. • Set a personal record or race your friends. • Stop for family photos or share a selfie on social using #3DuneChallenge. PADDLING

Local Expert

“The Dunes area is a great place to visit for many outdoor activities! Bring along your boat, and check out some of our local Learn more: paddling opportunities!" indianadunes.com/paddling - Erik Sprenne, Local Paddling Expert

42 beachoutdooradventures.com PADDLING

Load up your kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards—there are so many ways to paddle your way to a new Indiana Dunes adventure. Since the time of the last Ice Age, people have paddled this region’s lakes and rivers. With the list of access points in this guide, you can explore the historic and ecologically rich waterways in and around the Indiana Dunes.

Paddling Safety Tips Water Safety Tips from the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association

• Always wear a fully secured personal • Dress for water temperature and immersion. floatation device (PFD) while on the water. • Paddle with others as a team or a group. • Assess the risk before each paddle adventure • Get training on paddling skills, for the weather, the water, and your skill level. including self rescue skills. • Avoid conditions and situations beyond • Carry appropriate safety equipment. your training and abilities. • Help care for the water by disposing of all • Use an appropriate watercraft waste properly and leaving the water and for the water conditions. launch site better than you found it.

Indiana Dunes Tourism would like to express heartfelt thanks to the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association (nwipa.org) and Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (nirpc.org) for their contribution to the paddling information in this guide.

43 DEEP RIVER WATER TRAIL

PADDLING LOCATIONS

Access Points: Riverview Park Deep River Water Trail GPS Coordinates: Running 16 miles from Lake George 41.567505, -87.236588 before emptying into Lake Michigan, Festival Park 2701 Ripley St., Lake Station Deep River’s width and calm current GPS Coordinates: 219-962-7508 allows for easy navigation and 41.535085, -87.258620 Find them on Facebook provides an excellent trip for paddlers 111 E. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy a 219-942-2987 very natural paddling experience cityofhobart.org surrounded by deep sections of Soccer and Rugby Field woods, grasslands, and marshes. Deep GPS Coordinates: River provides a wonderful journey 41.536283, -87.255450 along undeveloped and unspoiled Jerry Pavese Park 245 E. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart shorelines and is considered by many GPS Coordinates: 219-942-2987 paddlers to be the area’s hidden gem. 41.530672, -87.261570 cityofhobart.org 500 S. Lake Park Ave., Hobart Skill Level: Novice to intermediate 219-942-2987 Veterans Memorial Park Type: Canoe or kayak cityofhobart.com GPS Coordinates: Conditions: Wide 41.571200, -87.240519 Length: 16 miles Johnson Park 5899 E. 73rd Ave., Hobart Need to Portage: GPS Coordinates: 219-924-2987 Occasionally necessary 41.563207, -87.290893 3825 Liverpool Rd., Lake Station cityofhobart.org 219-391-8482 lakecountyparks.com

HOWE ROAD BRIDGE KEITH RICHARD WALNER NATURE PRESERVE WYKES PLAMPIN NATURE PRESERVE

44 beachoutdooradventures.com PADDLING

East Branch Little Access Points: Calumet Water Trail Howe Road Bridge With significant stretches in both GPS Coordinates: Indiana and Illinois, the Little 41.622456, -87.095161 Calumet River has helped link cities North Howe Rd., Porter and towns throughout the Chicago 219-395-1882 region for centuries. The East Branch nps.gov/indu Little Calumet Water Trail offers paddlers over 11 miles of varying natural scenery, and two paddling trips are possible. The first takes Keith Richard Walner you from Chesterton through Porter Nature Preserve and ends at the Indiana Dunes GPS Coordinates: National Park, and the second route 41.622203, -87.050273 lets paddlers put in and take out West Taylor St., Chesterton near the mouth of the river at Lake 219-242-8558 Michigan for an up-and-back trip. heinzetrust.org

Chesterton to Indiana Dunes National Park When approaching the State Rd. Wykes Plampin Nature Preserve 49 bridge, paddlers should stop GPS Coordinates: on the left and inspect the rapids 41.615375, -87.016559 directly under the bridge before North Brummitt Rd., Chesterton paddling through. A portage along 219-242-8558 the left shore is suggested to heinzetrust.org avoid rocks on the other side.

Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate Type: Canoe or kayak Conditions: Mostly narrow and shallow, but with occasional deep sections (subject to rapid rise following rains) Length: Eight miles Need to Portage: About 50-feet at State Rd. 49 (portage left)

EAST BRANCH LITTLE CALUMETindianadunes.com/paddling WATER TRAIL 45 21 22 23 94 12

239 MICHIGAN 20 W 1000 N INDIANA Chicago 16 17 94 1 19 12

W

0 W 800 39 2 0 N 212 6 Kankakee River 14 15 18 N Paddling on the 13 35 12 National Water Trail 20 90 Lake 12 Formerly known as the Everglades 90 129TH ST Michigan Kankakee912 River of the North—before the river was 80 20 20 20 3 dredged and straightened in the 10 11 12 The Kankakee141ST ST River 4National Water Trail provides W KIEFFER RD 35 early 1900s—the Kankakee was W 400 N 20 312 133 miles of paddlingE CHICAGO AVE on a historic, undammed once a vital link between French 2 41 W E 12 421 J V Canada and the Mississippi River.20 94 O

A N D H river flowing through several county parks. 7 N

R Y D

6 8 6 S 5 0 D R O The Indiana section of the river K N

0 RD

E

A Y

O I

T A E N ST K AVE W 90 I N H E 12 N 9 offers easy paddling and fishing in 2 M Z

K N E 20 M O A W K U W L 1 O Safety on the Kankakee River W 5 R 0 N W T

D a rural setting. This guide lists only N 249 B A S 169T 912 R V H ST E N COUNTY LINE RD 80 R M • Be aware that there are few support services and E 94 D Indiana20 access points, but additional 90 R U N LY I 90 R

L

N 600 E 600 N C T Y information about the riverS and facilities, such as washrooms, fresh water, and W T SNYDER RD 53

H E 50 N

49 N D

PORTA E

G T

E AVE R

U Illinois access points can1 be found

0

80 O E 94 1

5

29T designated portagesH AVE along the route. L 2

C 90 80

L

I

at kankakeeriverwatertrail.org. 2 N

6 V

S

4 N 875 E • Do not attempt to paddle the river near flood stages.51 421 E

W R M IDGE RD O D 149 H T R E • Know your location as accurately as possible, and Skill Level: Intermediate OLI S W J

N 550 E W 250 S 6 23 41 Type: Canoe or kayak always carry a cell phone. 4 W 3RD ST

Conditions:W Deep and wide W 700 N 35 55 0

5 W

• The river flows through many hunting preserves. T D W 400 S Length:4 75 miles in Indiana W JOLIE E 0 10TH S S T R 65 T W 6 0 00 N N L 5 LA PORTE

L

Need to Portage: Rarely S Contact any preserves along your proposed route E

B COUNTY W E 600 N 550 N P 130 with average conditions 4 W 500 N M 49 E for information about hunting seasons. A 104 V W C 450N E A 51 6 0 4 RANSO T M 0 RD E • Tree falls and logjams can clog bridges with few 4 W 400 N M Access Points: U N 2 7 L VALE PARK R 30 3 A D E R D W C portage opportunities. Call the Kankakee River Basin A HA 0 V 0 E L R 0

5 IN R 6 IS 2 C ON

O EVANS AVE S 30Dunn’s BridgeN CountyL Park Commission for a status report 53on known logjams. NW

W A Y LA ORTE 0 GPS Coordinates: P

0

6 421 KEE R D KANKA N W 104 41.220115, -86.968861 6 Kankakee River Basin Commission 0 W W 100 1 N 0

0

6

0 500 E. and the Kankakee River, Kouts

5 6100 Southport Rd., Portage S

W DIVISION RD N 231 219-465-3586 394 219-763-0696 30 39 35 kankakeeriverbasin.org portercountyparks.org2 49 6

PORTER 30 COUNTY

LAKE 231 COUNTY E 145TH AVE W 1600 S 2

d

R

e

n

i

L

e

t

a

t 65

1 S

S 41 D R E G ID E 65 8 R R B E I K V S A E R M 2 K U N A COUNTY LINE RD 8 B A S K 2 W 1000 S

ILLINOIS INDIANA 231 49

421 N 55 Clay St AT AIL 39 IONA R TR T L WATE S

E

Y

A 0

L 2 0

5

C E 205TH AVE W 1700 N S

55 W 17 W

0 0

W 5 17 0 1600 N S TOTO RD 7 6

W

S N

41 0

E 127TH AVE 0

1

d

N R 49 41 0E W 400 S 0 STARKE 0

8

1 COUNTY N Grand Kankakee LaSalle Fish Marsh County Park Dunn’s Bridge

10 County Park E 400 N & Wildlife Area Shelby 65 Boat Ramp 10 39 10 10

35 114 JASPER 10 COUNTY 17

110

143

49

55

NEWTON COUNTY

14

PULASKI 14 14 41 COUNTY

231

421

119

35

114

114 55

39 119 21 22 23 94 12

239 MICHIGAN 20 W 1000 N INDIANA

Chicago 16 PADDLING 17 94 1 19 12

Grand Kankakee Marsh W LaSalle Fish & Wildlife Area Shelby Boat Ramp

0 W 800 39 2 0 N 212 6 County Park GPS Coordinates (Black Oak Bayou): GPS Coordinates:

15 N 14 GPS Coordinates:18 41.168360, -87.496839 41.183212, -87.340455 12 13 35 20 90 Lake 12 41.219614, -87.273945 GPS Coordinates (State Line): 90 Route 55 and Kankakee 129TH ST M 912 ichigan 21690 Range Line Rd., Hebron 41.167001, -87.526272 80 River, Shelby 20 20 3 219-769-7275 GPS Coordinates (White Oak Bayou): 20 10 11 12 141ST ST 4 W lakecountyparks.comKIEFFER RD 35 41.170205, -87.458168 W 400 N 20 312 4752 W. 1050 North, Lake Village E CHICAGO AVE 2 41 W E 12 421 J V 20 94 O 219-992-3019

A N D H 7 N

R Y D

6 8 6 S 5 0 in.gov/dnr/fishwild D R O K N

0 RD

E

A Y

O I

T A E N ST K AVE W 90 I N H E 12 N 9 Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area 2 M Z

K N E 20 M O A W K U W L 1 O W 5 R GPS Coordinates (Route 8 Access):0 N W T

D N 249 B A S 169T 912 R V H ST E N COUNTY LINE RD 80 R M E 94 D 20 41.317480, -86.74591290 R U N LY I 90 R

L

N 600 E 600 N C T Y GPS Coordinates (English Leo Jasinski Public Access S W T S 53 NYDER RD Leo Jasinski H E 50 N

49 N D

PORTA E

G T

E AVE R U Lake/Yellow River Access): GPS Coordinates: 1 0

Public Access 80 O E 94 1

5

29T H AVE L

2

C 90 80

L

I

41.271183, -86.825596 2 41.606116, -86.414264 N

6 V

S

4 N 875 E 51 4320 W.421 Toto E Rd., North Judson 60995 Crumstown Hwy.,

W R M IDGE RD O D 149 574-896-3522H T R North Liberty E OLI S W J

N 550 E W 250 S 6 in.gov/dnr/fishwild 574-277-4828 23 41 4 6 W 3RD ST sjcparks.org

W W 700 N 35 55 0

5 W

T D W 400 S 4 W JOLIE E 0 10TH S S T R 65 T W 6 0 00 N N L 5 LA PORTE

L

S E

B COUNTY W E 600 N 550 N P 130 Kingsbury State Fish and 4 W 500 N M 49 E A 104 V W C 450N E A Wildlife Area Access 51 6 0 4 RANSO T M 0 RD E

4 W 400 N M GPS Coordinates: U N 2 7 L VALE PARK R 30 3 A D E R D W 41.490257, -86.581599 C A HA 0 V 0 E L R 0

5 IN R 6 IS 2 C ON

O EVANS AVE S 600 E, Walkerton S 30 N L 53 NW

W A in.gov/dnr/fishwild Y LA ORTE 0 P

0

6 421 KEE R D KANKA N W 104 6 W W 0 100 1 N 0

0

6

0

5 S Kingsbury W DIVISION RD N 231 394 30 39 State Fish and 35 2 Wildlife Access 49

6

PORTER 30 COUNTY

LAKE 231 COUNTY E 145TH AVE W 1600 S 2 8 KANKAKEE RIVER NATIONAL WATER TRAIL

d

R

e

n i

L

e

t

a t 65

1 S

S 41 D R E G ID 8 R B S

M Kankakee Fish 2 U A

COUNTY LINE RD 8 and Wildlife Area B 2 S W 1000 S 400 E

ILLINOIS INDIANA 231 49

421 39 T

S

E

Y

A 0

L 2 0

5

C E 205TH AVE W 1700 N S

55 W 17 W

0 0

W 5 17 0 1600 N S TOTO RD 7 6

W

S N

0

E 127TH AVE 0

1

d 39

N

R 41 0E W 400 S 0 STARKE 0

8

1 COUNTY

N

10 65 E 400 N 10 39 10 421 10 35 beachoutdooradventures.com 47 114 JASPER 10 COUNTY 17

110

143

49

55

NEWTON COUNTY

14

PULASKI 14 14 41 COUNTY

231

421

119

35

114

114 55

39 119 94 W N A A T 12 G E I R H T C I R A M I L E

K

A

L 239 NA IL TIO RA NA N T L RECREATIO MICHIGAN

W 1000 N INDIANA

94

Chicago 12

W 39 Lake View Beach W 800 N

0

Access & Picnic Area 0 Calumet Park 6 212

N Dunbar Beach 90 Hammond 35 Kemil Beach 80 Marina 20 20 Whiting Lakefront Park Lake Indiana Dunes 20 and Whihala Beach State Park 20 Michigan Porter Beach 35 2 12 20 12 90 W KIEFFER RD W 400 N Y W 129TH ST H Portage Lakefront 912 East Chicago Marina West Beach W N J W and Riverwalk O O 421 H T

D N S Wells Street Beach S

R M

O

20 94 N N RD 2 U

K 141 ST ST 6

A R

I Marquette Park 0

C 0

N

RD

Z E ICAGO 312 E CH AVE T O W 1 I 5 W 0 N 12 A

W E M V

41 E

V R

M D N 600 E

A R

12 U 80

OAK AVE LY E 50 N

ST R 90

Y

B N COUNTY LINE RD

E

D

K

E 90

A

N

L D 249

N

R 20 N

RD

E 20 W SNYDER

94 D E

K T

N 875 E R

N

S

I

E

912 L 2 E 49 L

H 4

90

169TH ST T L

Y I

0

1 5 V

T 23 1 PORTAGE AVE 2 S

N

E U

53 90 80 N 421 M O T RD

C E O I OL 4 80 94 H J W 250 S 6 W 29TH AVE S 51

149 N 550 E 35 W RIDGE RD 6

W W 400 S

D 0 4 W JOLIET R 0

5 LA PORTE

W

W 700 N S

4

W 3R T COUNTY 104

D ST 0

S 5

41

4 L

L

Paddling on N 55 E 10TH ST W 600 N E E 600 N B 6

65 Safety on Lake Michigan P W 550 N

49 E M

E

0

E

A

130 V

• Be visible. Wear brightW 50 0colors N 0 C

A 0 Lake Michigan 6

T 0

S 4 W 450N RANSOM RD E 2 so others can see you between M N 51 U The Lake Michigan Water Trail currently covers W 400 N L VALE PARK RD A C EE RD waves or in foggy conditions.W H K

A AR ANK 104 0 L K 7 IN RI more than 75 miles along the south shore of 3 5 SON RD C EVANS AVE A 2 6 V O • CarryE a bright light, a whistle, and L 30 N N W E 30 A RT 421 W

Lake Michigan, following the entire Indiana Y LA PO

0

W 0

flares to signal your position.

6 0 53

0 coast from Chicago, Illinois to New Buffalo, S

6 35 • Only use a seaN kayak with bulkheads/ 39

W W 100 N

Michigan. Paddlers, planners, and access 0 6

0 5

floatation in bow and stern. 30 site owners from the four states bordering W DIVISION RD N

• Have self rescue skills if paddling2 1 the lake are working together to develop 49 231 in waves or away from shore. what will be the longest continuous loop of 394 • Take a boating safety class offered 30 freshwater sea kayaking in the world. by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. PORTER COUNTY INDIANA DUNE STATE PARK W 1600 S CENTRAL BEACH 231 DUNBAR BEACH

LAKE E 145TH AVE 2 COUNTY

d

R D e 65 R n i E

L

G

e ID

t

a R t 8 B

S

8 S 1 S 41 M U A B S 48 beachoutdooradventures.com COUNTY LINE RD 39 2 2 W 1000 S 49 421

231 E

0 INDIANA ILLINOIS

0

5

T

W

S S

0 S TOTO RD

5 Y

6 A

W 1700 N L

S C

W W 1600 E 205TH AVE N

0

2 0 W 55 W 400 S 7

0 0 N

1

STARKE

N 17 E 127TH AVE COUNTY 10 17 10

d N 400 E 400 N R 41 39

0E

0

0 35

8

1

N 65 10 10

JASPER COUNTY

114 10 110 143

17 49

55

14 14 NEWTON PULASKI COUNTY COUNTY

14

421 41 231

119 35

39 119

114 114 55 PADDLING New Buffalo Beach 94 & Boat Ramp 12

LAKE MICHIGAN

239 MICHIGAN

W 1000 N INDIANA Washington Park Beach & Zoo 94

Chicago Central 12

Avenue Beach W 39 W 800 N

0

0

6

212

N

90 35 80 20

20 Lake 20

20 Michigan 35 2 12 20 12 90 W KIEFFER RD W 400 N Y W 129TH ST H 912 W N J W O O 421 H T

D N S S

R M

O

20 94 N N RD 2 U

K 141 ST ST 6

A R

I 0

C 0

N

RD

Z E ICAGO 312 E CH AVE T O W 1 I 5 W 0 N 12 A

W E M V

41 E

V R

M D N 600 E

A R

12 U 80

OAK AVE LY E 50 N

ST R 90

Y

B N COUNTY LINE RD

E

D

K

E 90

A

N

L D 249

N

R 20 N

RD

E 20 W SNYDER

94 D E

K T

N 875 E R

N

S

I

E

912 L 2 E 49 L

H 4

90

169TH ST T L

Y I

0

1 5 V

T 23 1 PORTAGE AVE 2 S

N

E U

53 90 80 N 421 M O T RD

C E O I OL 4 80 94 H J W 250 S 6 W 29TH AVE S 51

149 N 550 E 35 W RIDGE RD 6

W W 400 S

D 0 4 W JOLIET R 0

5 LA PORTE

W

W 700 N S

4

W 3R T COUNTY 104

D ST 0 S

5 East Chicago Marina 41

4 Access Points: L

L N Lake Michigan 55 E 10TH ST W 600 N E E 600 N GPS Coordinates: B 6

65 P W 550 N

49 E

M 41.655212, -87.436893

E Water Trail Calumet Park

0

E

A

130 V

W 500 N 0 C

A 0

6

0 Indiana Dunes is a premier paddling 3301 Aldis St., East Chicago, IN T GPS Coordinates:

S 4 W 450N RANSOM RD E 2 M N destination with more than 50 miles 219-391-8482 51 U 41.721770, -87.524616 W 400 N L VALE PARK RD A of a continuous water trail along Lake C eastchicago.comEE RD W H 9801 S. Ave. G, Chicago K

A AR ANK 104 0 L K 7 IN RI 3 5 SON RD C EVANS AVE Michigan’s southern shore. Along A 2 chicagoparkdistrict.com 6 V O E L 30 N N W E the trail, paddlers will experience 30 A RT 421 W Hammond Marina

Y LA PO

0

W 0 the diverse ecosystems and land

6 GPS Coordinates: 0 53 Central Avenue Beach

0 S

6 use of Northwest Indiana, including 35 41.697382, -87.510666 N GPS Coordinates:39

W W 100 N

0 white sand beaches, towering dunes, 701 Casino Center Dr., Hammond 6

0 41.704334, -86.951499 5

30

N forested bluffs, industrial hubs, W DIVISION RD Central Ave. & Valley 219-659-7678 2 bustling ports, and breathtaking hammondmarina.com 1 49 Ave., Michigan City 231 sunsets over the Chicago skyline.. 219-395-1882

394 nps.gov/indu30 Indiana Dunes State Park Skill Level: Intermediate to expert GPS Coordinates: Type: Sea kayak PORTER 41.661905, -87.066958 COUNTY Conditions: Can vary from 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton calm to dangerous W 1600 S Dunbar Beach 219-926-1952 Length: Varies in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm 231 GPS Coordinates: Need to Portage: N/A 41.684496, -87.003555 LAKE E 145TH AVE 2 COUNTY 300 W. Lake Front Dr., Michigan City 219-395-1882

d

R D

e nps.gov/indu 65 R n i E

L

G e ID

t

a R t 8 B

S

8 S 1 S 41 M U Continued on next page. A B S

COUNTY LINE RD 39 2 2 W 1000 S 49 421

231 E

0 INDIANA ILLINOIS

0

5

T

W

S S

0 S TOTO RD

5 Y

6 A

W 1700 N L

S C

W W 1600 E 205TH AVE N

0

2 0 W 55 W 400 S 7

0 0 N

1

STARKE

N 17 E 127TH AVE COUNTY 10 17 10

d N 400 E 400 N R 41 39

0E

0

0 35

8

1

N 65 10 10

JASPER COUNTY

114 10 110 143

17 49

55

14 14 NEWTON PULASKI COUNTY COUNTY

14

421 41 231

119 35

39 119

114 114 55 Kemil Beach Marquette Park Porter Beach GPS Coordinates: GPS Coordinates: GPS Coordinates: 41.682180, -87.009884 41.620344,-87.270111 41.65964337, -87.069363 27 N. East State Park Rd., Chesterton 860 N. Lake St., Gary 3050 Wabash Ave., Porter 219-395-1882 219-938-7362 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu marquetteparkgary.org nps.gov/indu

Lake View Beach Access New Buffalo Beach & Boat Ramp Washington Park & Picnic Area GPS Coordinates: Beach & Zoo GPS Coordinates: 41.802349, -86.749112 GPS Coordinates: 41.686452, -86.997026 200 Marquette Dr., New Buffalo, MI 41.727500,-86.905870 50 W. Lake Front Dr., Beverly Shores 269-469-1522 6 on the Lake, Michigan City 219-395-1882 cityofnewbuffalo.org 219-873-1506 nps.gov/indu michigancityparks.com Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk GPS Coordinates: 41.631553, -87.177719 100 Riverwalk Dr., Portage Wells Street Beach 219-395-1882 GPS Coordinates: nps.gov/indu 41.624363, -87.223365 9501 Lake Shore Dr., Gary 219-938-8275 wellsstbeach.com

50 beachoutdooradventures.com PORTER BEACH PADDLING

MARQUETTE PARK West Beach GPS Coordinates: 41.611591, -87.2225418 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu

Whiting Lakefront Park and Whihala Beach GPS Coordinates: 41.686843,-87.495928 1500 Park Rd., Whiting 219-659-0860 whitingindiana.com

PORTAGE LAKEFRONT AND RIVERWALK

KEMIL BEACH Lakes of LaPorte Long Lake and Portage Lakefront Water Trail Chain of Lakes Under normal flow conditions, this Located about 20 miles south of Lake There’s easy paddling on Long section can be paddled upstream and Michigan and LaPorte, Indiana is Lake with access to the Canada back without much difficulty. When home to its own unique lake system Lake. The calm waters surrounded paddling upstream from either access that provides a wonderful series of by lakeside homes and wildlife point, take the first left turn into the inland paddles. Clustered off the make for a relaxing experience. East Branch of the Little Calumet (the in LaPorte are right branch is the West Branch of the Pine, Stone, Fishtrap, Horseshoe, Skill Level: Novice Little Calumet), and paddle upstream Lily, Clear, Lower, Orr, and Crane Type: Canoe or kayak as far as you care. The multiple Lake. Each one offers a different Conditions: Calm lake branches you will reach (from right to paddling adventure perfect for Length: Varies left) are Salt Creek, the Little Calumet, people of all ages and skill levels. Need to Portage: N/A and a cooling water discharge from the Arcelor Mittal Steel plant. You

Skill Level: Novice will run into logjams on both Salt Access Point: Creek and the East Branch Little Type: Canoe or kayak Conditions: Wide at Pine/ Calumet and can portage around Long Lake Public Access those if feeling adventurous. When Stone, narrow at Lily GPS Coordinates: Length: Varies done exploring, turn around and 41.524514, -87.051317 head back to your starting point. Need to Portage: N/A E. 600 North Rd., Valparaiso

219-465-3586 Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate Access Points: fishing.in.gov Type: Canoe or kayak Conditions: Deep and wide Pine Lake Marina Length: 3.5 miles GPS Coordinates: Need to Portage: N/A 41.628350, -86.738698 Pine Lake Ave., LaPorte Access Points: cityoflaporte.com

Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk GPS Coordinates:

41.6267544, -87.1772119 Stone Lake Beach 100 Riverwalk Dr., Portage GPS Coordinates: 219-395-1882 41.610197, -86.747885 nps.gov/indu 300 Grangemouth Dr., LaPorte 219-326-9600

cityoflaporte.com

Portage Public Marina (Sammie L. Maletta Public Marina)

GPS Coordinates: 41.631519, -87.177822 1200 Marina Way, Portage 219-763-6833 ci.portage.in.us

52 beachoutdooradventures.com PADDLING ROGERS LAKEWOOD PARK Rogers Lakewood Park Loomis Lake and Spectacles Lake are small and calm, which is perfect for a beginning blueways explorer. They also make for relaxing trips for experts. 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso 219-462-5144 valpoparks.org

Skill Level: Novice Type: Canoe or kayak Conditions: Calm lake Length: Varies Need to Portage: N/A

Access Points:

Campbell Street Access GPS Coordinates: 41.517772, -87.062378 5502 Campbell St., Valparaiso 219-462-5144

LAKES OF LAPORTE LONG LAKE AND WATER TRAIL PORTAGE LAKEFRONT CHAIN OF LAKES WANDERING

Local Expert

“Nature walks are one of our favorite things to do, and the feeling of being alone in this big world is such a treasure." Learn more: indianadunes.com/hiking - Natasha Nicholes, Local Wandering Expert

54 beachoutdooradventures.com WANDERING

Why hurry? Take the time to wander and let your senses take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Indiana Dunes. Listen to the waves on the shore. Feel the gentle breeze on your cheeks. Watch the sunlight dancing through the leaves in the forest. The Indiana Dunes area offers plenty of places where you can leisurely stroll, explore, or simply sit and relax in nature.

Visitor Information Start Your Adventure at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

• Access to Dunes-Kankakee Trail, which goes to the Indiana Dunes State Park • Art walk with photo opportunities • Electric vehicle charging station • Exhibit hall that’s fun for kids • Gift shop • Guides and brochures • Helpful advice from our destination ambassadors • Restrooms, drinking fountains, and a water bottle filling station • Seasonal bike rentals by Pedal Power Rentals • Short film in our theater

Find Us Indiana Dunes Visitor Center Just north of the Indiana Toll Road and Interstate 94 and just south of the Indiana Dunes State Park and U.S. 20. 1215 N. State Rd. 49, Porter Destination Ambassadors: 219-926-2255 National Park: 800-283-8687 INDIANA DUNES VISITOR CENTER indianadunes.com [email protected] In-season: 8am–6pm daily, Memorial Day to Labor Day Off-season: 8:30am–4:30pm daily, Labor Day to Memorial Day

AUKIKI WETLAND CONSERVATION AREA WANDERING LOCATIONS Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve Bailly Homestead and Brincka Cross Gardens Search these large woods for Chellberg Farm Brincka Cross is a small haven set small things. More than 40 rare These two historic sites sit nearly back in the woods, just waiting to be Indiana plants are contained within side-by-side within the Indiana Dunes explored. William Brincka, professor the dense trees—salamanders National Park. Honore Gratien Joseph at the Art Institute of Chicago, put his hide under logs, migratory birds Bailly de Messein, the first known artistry to work over decades designing pass through the trees, and frogs non-native resident of northwest the nearly four acres of gardens on this chorus in the spring evenings. Indiana, set up a fur trading post 25-acre site. Each plant was carefully More than five miles of trails make here in 1822. As you traverse this chosen to create a sense of delight this hike a game of I-Spy on your easy-going 1.5-mile section of trail, and wonder. Schedule a tour for more adventure through the thick forest. imagine traders and travelers who exploration of the home and to see why 8364 Meer Rd., Michigan City once used the Little Calumet River experts and enthusiasts from across the 219-242-8558 as a critical transportation route. country come to marvel at the gardens. heinzetrust.org 618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter 427 E. Furness Rd., Michigan City 219-395-1882 219-465-3586 nps.gov/indu portercountyparks.org

Aukiki Wetland Conservation Area This 650-acre parcel conserves a mix of wetlands, black oak barrens, and Barker Woods Broken Wagon Bison sand prairie, offering wildlife viewing, Barker Woods, a Shirley Heinze Land Get up close and personal with our hiking, and hunting. Aukiki is part of Trust property, is a rare example of an country’s largest native land mammal the Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh old-growth forest nestled in an urban at this family-owned bison farm. Take Restoration Project. The Grand area. The 30-acre nature preserve a wagon tour to see a herd of more Kankakee Marsh was one of the holds a diverse array of shrubs, and than 100 bison, including Big John, the largest freshwater wetland complexes herbs dot the grounds as oak, pine, largest bison in the group. Afterward, in the United States, encompassing and maple trees tower overhead. purchase a variety of bison meat 500,000 acres in eight counties. 444 Barker Rd., Michigan City products and gifts. Scheduled one-hour State Rd. 49, Wheatfield 219-242-8558 tours are offered on Saturdays from 219-285-2184 heinzetrust.org June to September. Call or see website Find them on Facebook for tour times. A tour fee applies.

563 W. 450 North, Hobart

219-759-3523 brokenwagonbison.com 56 beachoutdooradventures.com

WANDERING BAILLY HOMESTEAD AND CHELLBERG FARM

BROKEN WAGON BISON

Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve See one of the rarest ecosystems in the state at the 41-acre Cressmoor Preserve. The black-soil prairie contains at least 10 plants and five insects that are state-listed threatened species. Although the trail is a short 0.75 mile, the late summer wildflowers are impressive— as are the butterflies they attract! Catch the trail that leaves from the parking lot to witness the diversity of plant species here. 483 N. Lake Park Ave., Hobart 219-242-8558 heinzetrust.org

Dale B. Engquist Nature Preserve BRINCKA CROSS GARDENS Engquist Preserve was a key element in efforts to preserve land in the Little Calumet River Conservation Corridor. Located adjacent to the Heron Rookery unit of Indiana Dunes National Park and Reynolds Creek State Game Bird Habitat, it creates an area of nearly 2,000 contiguous acres of protected land, a boon to the many common mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians which live here. E. 1300 North, Chesterton 219-242-8558 heinzetrust.org

FRIENDSHIP BOTANIC GARDENS KEITH RICHARD WALNER NATURE HERON ROOKERY TRAIL AND PRESERVE REYNOLD’S CREEK

Drazer Park (Thomas S. Drazer Friendship Botanic Gardens Gordon & Faith Greiner Memorial Park) Tucked in the valley of Trail Creek Nature Preserve Drazer Park is a memorial to the is truly a secret garden. It’s an See the diverse natural communities men and women in the Kouts intriguing and unexpected blend that make Northwest Indiana so area who have given the supreme of formal gardens, statues from special. You’ll find open sandy dunes, sacrifice for God and their country. days gone by, and serene natural oak savanna, a variety of wetland The park provides a shelter, tennis areas. Visit Lake Lucerne to see habitats, and tallgrass prairie. Spring courts, basketball courts, a large muskrats, geese, turtles, and brings wildflowers to the woodlands, playground, and a lighted community waterfowl, or explore the Path frog calls to the wetlands, and ball field. It is host to many events of Nations’ international-themed colorful spikes of wildflowers and such as the Annual Easter Egg cultivated gardens. Guests with wavy tall grasses in mid-summer. Hunt and Trunk or Treat. The park limited mobility may experience 200 N. Liverpool Rd., Hobart has new playground equipment. the grounds via golf cart tours 219-242-8558 812 W. Sunset, Kouts scheduled in advance. heinzetrust.org koutsindiana.org 2055 E. U.S. 12, Michigan City 219-878-9885 Forest Park friendshipgardens.org Though Forest Park is just ten acres Hammond Lakefront Park in size, it is a lovely spot for a stroll or and Bird Sanctuary

for a family picnic. Oak and hickory A truly unexpected find. A small, trees dominate the woodlands here. Gibson Woods Nature Preserve 600-meter tract nestled in the You can wander along trails through Thousands of years ago, glaciers middle of an industrial area may not a restored two-acre oak savanna receded and left Lake Michigan seem worth exploring, but this one remnant. The native woodland and a series of dunes and swales is! As you crisscross the site on a wildflowers and shrubs that have lying parallel to today’s lakeshore. narrow footpath, keep your eyes been planted provide a place to The 131-acre Gibson Woods open for neotropical bird species enjoy a native habitat inside the city. Nature Preserve protects a sizeable that use this small space as a A small prairie plant demonstration remnant of this landscape, with critical stopover during migrations. plot hosts families of bluebirds 3.5 miles of trails through the A rough trail runs the length of in the summer. You will also find preserve’s dominant habitat—black the site, allowing you to scan the picnic pavilions, restrooms, and a oak savanna. The Gibson Woods woods and grassy areas for birds. playground here. Ogden Gardens Environmental Awareness Center 701 Casino Center Dr., Hammond Park is adjacent to the east. houses natural history exhibits 219-659-7678 564 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso and live reptiles and amphibians. indianaaudubon.org 219-462-5144 6201 Parrish Ave., Hammond valpoparks.org 219-844-3188 lakecountyparks.com

58 beachoutdooradventures.com WANDERING

Heron Rookery Trail and Kankakee Sands Efroymson Keith Richard Walner Reynold’s Creek Family Prairie Restoration Nature Preserve For more than 60 years, herons More than 7,800 acres provide refuge This untouched floodplain nested here along the Little for some of the fastest declining forest along the Little Calumet Calumet River. Though the heron bird species in America. Watch out River offers a tranquil setting rookery is no longer active, the for the glass lizard, a legless reptile where wetland-loving creatures 1.6-mile trail is a good spot for resembling a snake. Wildflowers and plants thrive. Woodland viewing other bird species. In will overwhelm your senses as you wildflowers cover the slopes springtime, the woods along the hike through black oak savanna to of the ravines in spring, and trail are carpeted with wildflowers, the once-booming town of Conrad. migratory birds rest here on their including trillium, Dutchman’s With the recent addition of bison on long journeys in the spring and breeches, hepatica, and mayapple. the site, your journey to Kankakee fall. The trail includes a 0.5-mile 1320 N. 600 East, Michigan City Sands is sure to be memorable. of frontage along the river and 219-395-1882 3294 N. U.S. 41, Morocco a launch site for paddlers. nps.gov/indu 219-285-2184 N. Calumet Rd. and Taylor St., nature.org/kankakeesands Chesterton 219-242-8558

heinzetrust.org

KANKAKEE SANDS EFROYMSON FAMILY PRAIRIE RESTORATION

OGDEN GARDENS PARK OGDEN GARDENS PARK

Meadowbrook Conservation Mount Baldy & Beach Access Ogden Gardens Park Center and Nature Preserve The largest “living dune” in the Ogden Gardens Park is four acres This 154-acre property offers National Park, Mount Baldy is of professionally maintained numerous recreational opportunities, currently moving about four feet botanical gardens with perennial including five miles of marked every year. As the dune moves, it gardens, annual displays, native and trails that are open every day. This buries everything in its path, including ornamental trees, a gazebo, and a Moraine Region site features woods, trees. Scientists continue to study Japanese garden. The Japanese wetlands, streams, and prairie this important area of the ever- garden includes a Teahouse, shaded pockets. It provides habitat for changing lakeshore. Call the Visitor trails, bridges, and streams, as wildlife, including migrating birds and Center for information on guided well as a 22,000-gallon koi pond. bats. Once the site of a Girl Scout tours because all hikes to the summit Hummingbirds and butterflies frequent camp, an outdoor amphitheater must be led by authorized Indiana the gardens in summer, and many and lodge provide activity venues. Dunes National Park rangers. songbirds are drawn here as well. 109 W. 700 North, Valparaiso 101 Rice St. (U.S. 12), Michigan City 451 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso 219-242-8558 219-395-1882 219-462-5144 heinzetrust.org nps.gov/indu valpoparks.org

60 beachoutdooradventures.com WANDERING

Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Seidner Dune and Swale Whiting Lakefront Park and Formerly an industrial site, this This 43-acre property protects Whihala Beach 57-acre area features an enclosed globally rare dune-and-swale Whiting Lakefront Park and pavilion with seasonal food topography and floodplain marsh Whihala Beach Park are adjacent services and restrooms, as well as along the . properties. Combined, these a handicap-accessible trail, fishing Impressive wildflower displays 38 acres offer sporting areas pier, and kayak launch. A breakwater include wild lupine and puccoon including a bike trail, tennis also provides easy access for fishing, in the spring and fringed gentians courts, sand volleyball courts, bird watching, and sightseeing. and prairie plants in the fall. Egrets, and a baseball diamond. The 6150 U.S. 12 (100 Riverwalk Dr.), herons, and cormorants are often park is also a landing place for Portage sighted along the river during the migrating birds. There’s a fishing 219-395-1882 summer. An informal hiking trail pier, another relaxing fishing nps.gov/indu exists along the frontage road pond and a boat launch ramp at and former railway right of way. the beach. In summer months, 5501-5599 Kennedy Ave., Hammond the beach has lifeguards. 219-242-8558 1561 Park Rd., Whiting & Upland Trail heinzetrust.org 219-659-0860 This true bog is a must-see whitingindiana.com adventure experience. Located several miles inland, away from the rest of the Indiana Dunes National Westchester Migratory Zona Wildlife Sanctuary Park, Pinhook Bog has a floating Bird Sanctuary This sanctuary's looping trails are boardwalk where you can view Restored as a shorebird sanctuary, an easy walk or run, especially carnivorous plants, sphagnum this former garbage dump is for families with little ones. Picnic moss, and blueberry bushes. You’ll suitable for a swath of migrating tables and interpretive signage walk above the sponge-like layer birds to rest, feed, and prepare for are located along the trails. The on the bog’s surface in the most their continued journeys. Some sanctuary welcomes dog walking. unexpected environment in the areas within the sanctuary will be 601 E. 950 North, Westville dunes. The bog is open during specifically constructed for migratory 219-465-3586 select times when rangers are shorebirds, with managed pond portercowildlife.org present. The Upland Trail is also levels, appropriate food sources, accessed through this parking lot. and habitat. Elevated walkways 946 N. Wozniak Rd., LaPorte for bird enthusiasts are being built. 219-395-1882 The sanctuary will also allow for nps.gov/indu permanent wildlife residents and flora native to this region as well as amenities for their human friends. 1050 S. 11th St., Chesterton 219-477-8247 westchesterbird.org

ZONA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

PINHOOK BOG & UPLAND TRAIL PLACES TO STAY R.O.S.E. Awards Roses highlight businesses given the Recognition of Service Excellence award in 2019. You can nominate a service provider at indianadunes.com/rose.

THE ABERDEEN INN

& THE ABBEY Duneland Communities Price range: $—Less than $50, $$—$50–$100, $$$—$100+ # Rooms/campsites Indoor/outdoor pool (IP/OP) (FB/CB) Full/continental breakfast High-speed internet (Y) Nonsmoking (N)

AL & SALLY’S MOTEL INC. 3221 W. Dunes Hwy., Michigan City (Pines) $$ 16 OP Y N 219-872-9131 alsallysmotel.com

AT HOME IN THE WOODS BED AND BREAKFAST 898 N. County Rd. 350 East, Chesterton $$$ 4 OP FB Y N 219-728-1325 athomeinthewoodsbb.com

BEST WESTERN INDIAN OAK 558 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton $$ 62 IP FB Y N 219-926-2200 indianoak.com

COMFORT INN & SUITES - PORTER 1800 W. U.S. 20, Porter $$ 70 IP FB Y N 219-250-2181 choicehotels.com

DUNES VACATION RENTAL 4942 W. Dunes Hwy., Beverly Shores $$$ 1 Y N 773-704-8557 airbnb.com

DUNESWALK INN AT THE FURNESS MANSION $$$ 5 Y N RILEY'S RAILHOUSE 1491 N. Furnleigh Ln., Chesterton BED & BREAKFAST 219-728-6393 duneswalkinn.com

DUNEWOOD CAMPGROUND 645 Broadway, Beverly Shores $ 67 219-395-1882 recreation.gov

FAIRBRIDGE INN EXPRESS 713 Plaza Dr., Chesterton $$ 41 CB Y N 219-929-4416 choicehotels.com

HILTON GARDEN INN CHESTERTON 501 Gateway Blvd., Chesterton $$$ 120 IP Y N 219-983-9500 chesterton.hgi.com

INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK CAMPGROUND $ 140 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton 866-622-6746 in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm

QUALITY INN - CHESTERTON 418 Council Dr., Chesterton $$ 47 CB Y N 219-929-5549 qualityinn.com

RILEY’S RAILHOUSE DUNESWALK INN BED & BREAKFAST $$$ 5 FB Y N AT FURNESS MANSION 123 N. 4th St., Chesterton 219-395-9999 rileysrailhouse.com

SANDCREEK CAMPGROUND 1000 N. 350 East, Chesterton 219-926-7482 $ 150 OP Y N or 219-331-9805 Find them on Facebook

SPRING HOUSE INN 303 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter $$ 50 IP CB Y N 219-929-4600 springhouseinn.com

WATERBIRD LAKESIDE INN 556 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton $$ 40 Y N 219-928-1501 waterbirdinn.com

62 beachoutdooradventures.com PLACES TO STAY

Key Bed & Breakfasts Hotels & Inns RVS & Campgrounds Vacation Homes ROSE Award Winners

Portage Price range: $—Less than $50, $$—$50–$100, $$$—$100+ # Rooms/campsites Indoor/outdoor pool (IP/OP) (FB/CB) Full/continental breakfast High-speed internet (Y) Nonsmoking (N)

AFFORDABLE SUITES OF AMERICA PORTAGE $$ 49 Y 1550 Olmstead Dr. 219-734-6111 affordablesuites.com

BAYMONT BY WYNDHAM PORTAGE 2323 Willowcreek Rd. $$ 76 IP CB Y N 219-706-3058 wyndhamhotels.com

BEST WESTERN PLUS Valparaiso PORTAGE HOTEL & SUITES $$ 100 IP CB Y N

6200 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Price range: $—Less than $50, $$—$50–$100, $$$—$100+ # Rooms/campsites Indoor/outdoor pool (IP/OP) (FB/CB) Full/continental breakfast High-speed internet (Y) Nonsmoking (N) 219-734-6727 bestwestern.com THE ABERDEEN INN & THE ABBEY 3158 S. State Rd. 2 $$$ 10 OP FB Y N COUNTRY INN & SUITES 219-465-3753 innataberdeen.com BY RADISSON - PORTAGE $$$ 100 IP CB Y N 1630 Olmstead Dr. 219-764-0021 radissonhotels.com BEST WESTERN UNIVERSITY INN AT VALPARAISO $$ 53 FB Y N 760 W. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) DAYS INN BY WYNDHAM PORTAGE 6161 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) $$ 111 IP Y 219-850-1100 bestwestern.com 219-762-2136 wyndhamhotels.com COUNTRY INN & SUITES $$$ 59 IP CB Y N HAMPTON INN PORTAGE BY RADISSON - VALPARAISO 6353 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) $$$ 60 IP CB Y N 2020 LaPorte Ave. 219-764-1919 hilton.com 219-476-0000 countryinn.com/valpoin

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS $$$ 63 IP CB Y N & SUITES PORTAGE $$$ 86 IP CB Y N BY MARRIOTT - VALPARAISO 6295 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 2101 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-734-6000 ihg.com 219-465-6225 marriott.com

LAKESHORE CAMP RESORT HAMPTON INN & SUITES VALPARAISO 5300 Old Porter Rd. $ 125 OP 1451 S. Silhavy Rd. $$$ 77 IP FB Y N 219-762-7757 lakeshorecampresort.com 219-531-6424 hilton.com

QUALITY INN & SUITES - PORTAGE HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 2300 Willowcreek Rd. $$ 52 CB Y N & SUITES VALPARAISO $$$ 85 IP FB Y N 219-763-7177 choicehotels.com 1251 Silhavy Rd. S. 219-464-9395 or 888-897-0084 ihg.com

RODEWAY INN 6142 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) $ 50 PIKK’S TAVERN & INN 219-763-6601 choicehotels.com 62 W. Lincolnway $$$ 2 Y N 219-476-7455 pikkstavern.com

SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM PORTAGE 6118 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) $$ 65 CB Y N SONGBIRD PRAIRIE BED AND BREAKFAST 219-762-8857 wyndhamhotels.com INN AND SPA $$$ 5 FB Y N 174 N. County Rd. 600 West 219-759-4274 or 219-743-2096 songbirdprairie.com TRAVEL INN 6101 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-254-2934 or $$ 131 FB Y N 219-841-9928 travelinnportage.com SUNSET HILL FARM COUNTY PARK CAMPGROUND $ 6 35 E. 700 North WOODLAND VILLAGE RV LOTS 219-465-3586 portercountyparks.org AND MOBILE HOME PARK $ 70 5757 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-762-6578 wvmhp.com SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM VALPARAISO 3005 John Howell Dr. $$ 58 IP CB Y N 219-386-3029 wyndhamhotels.com

VALPARAISO INN BED & BREAKFAST 301 Washington St. $$$ 5 FB Y N 219-242-8934 valpoinn.com DuneIndianas TOURISM

Indiana Dunes Tourism 1215 N. State Rd. 49 Porter, IN 46304 800-283-8687 indianadunes.com

Indiana Dunes Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for the Indiana Dunes area/Porter County, IN.