For a hiking experience that will lead you to someplace unforgettable, check out this sand dune hike at Indiana Dunes National Park, which, according to many people, is the best national park to visit in Indiana. By the end of the trail, you’ll find yourself at the absolute best natural oasis in the state.

If you love Lake Michigan, you’ll definitely love this trail. Scroll on to learn all about it.

Indiana Dunes National Park is the only official national park in Indiana. Once a state park, it now joins the ranks of Yellowstone and other federally protected patches of land. It's also one of the best parks in Indiana.
AllTrails/Crazy ForFitness
The longest trail here is Trail 10, which is an extensive sand dune hike that's better suited for more adventurous hikers.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
Spanning 5.5 miles, the trail passes not only through sand dunes, but also a graveyard of dead trees, white pines, and finally, the beaches of Lake Michigan.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt

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Traversing the dunes is much harder than hiking on flat dirt or paved paths. At times it feels like you take a step backward for every two steps forward, especially when hiking uphill.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
The views along the way are absolutely stunning. The diverse range of ecosystems at Indiana Dunes National Park is part of the reason why it is protected.
AllTrails/Crazy ForFitness
Just when you've had enough hiking in the sand and trees, this sand dune hike will open up to the beach at Lake Michigan where you can take a stroll in the water or swim in the waves.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt
The views here are worth the long hike. It's truly an amazing experience to hike over these mountains of sand to one of the greatest lakes in the world.
AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt

For more like this, check out these eight hiking trails in Indiana that are quite exceptional.

If you’ve ever been on this sand dune hike, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.

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Best National Park To Visit In Indiana

Jennifer Young | February 04, 2022

What is the longest hiking trail in Indiana?

Knobstone Trail, which is located within Jackson Washington State Forest, is 58 feet long. This makes it Indiana's longest hiking trail. To hike this point-to-point trail, it usually takes 20-30 hours depending on how fast of a hiker you are. A variety of activities are offered along Knobstone Trail, including hiking, backpacking, and camping. You can also expect to see lots of wildlife during your hiking adventure. Don't forget your camera! Because of its difficult rating, thanks to having lots of elevation changes, Knobstone Trail is best suited for advanced hikers.

What is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Indiana?

Shades State Park Trail #2, which is located within Shades State Park near Waveland, is considered one of Indiana's most beautiful hiking trails. With a length of less than two miles and a moderate difficulty rating, it's an absolute must-hike for anyone wanting a quick adventure while surrounded by lots of beautiful natural scenery, including canyons and a waterfall. Hiking, running, and bird watching are just a few of the popular activities people use this trail for. Whether you're an amateur hiker or a more advanced hiker, you'll love exploring this short and sweet trail.

Where will you find some of the best things to do outside in Indiana?

There are many attractions that offer a variety of things to do outside in Indiana. One place in particular is the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge in Pike and Gibson counties. While exploring this sprawling preserve, which was established in 1994, you'll get to view lots of wildlife. In addition to wildlife viewing, visitors of this preserve will also enjoy hunting, fishing, paddling, and birding.

 

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Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter, IN 46304, USA