Its 15-mile coastline boasts 10 of Lake Michigan’s swimmable beaches with more than enough raw material for even the most ambitious sand castle builder. It’s a hot spot for summer fun in the sun, but beyond the picturesque shoreline of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore lie countless treasures just waiting to be discovered.
Located within Porter County, Indiana, the Indiana Dunes offer more than 70 miles of trails that traverse 15,000 acres of beach woods, marshes and prairie. The new Great Marsh Trail presents views of this recently restored wetland and, farther inland, find Pinhook Bog, Indiana’s only true bog. During a ranger-led tour, step along the boardwalk placed over this floating mat of sphagnum moss for a look at what life-forms can tolerate the highly acidic water. And don’t miss the view from atop Mount Baldy, the largest “living” dune in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore at roughly 125 feet tall. It moves about 4 feet every year, burying everything in its path. Nearby Indiana Dunes State Park offers 140 campsites, all with 50-amp service.
Learn more about Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore at www.indianadunes.com or call Indiana Dunes Tourism at 219-926-2255.
For more pictures and adventures from Michigan, read our web exclusive story exploring the area.
