Discovery Trail
Nestled in Northwest Indiana, on the shores of the massive freshwater sea of Lake Michigan, is a remarkable place, a unique landscape carved by immense glaciers during the last ice age. As these frozen giants slowly receded, they left behind a cornucopia of natural wonders, from sandy beaches and majestic dunes to sprawling wetlands and lush forests.
The Indiana Dunes is one of the most biodiverse areas in the United States, and we’ve made this self-guided tour so you can easily create your own outdoor itinerary. The best part? If you use the free Discovery Trail mobile pass, you might win an Indiana Dunes getaway!
The Discovery Trail pass is free, but entrance fees apply where applicable.
The Discovery Trail Locations
Here are FIVE reasons why the Indiana Dunes Discovery Trail is a must-have tool when visiting the Indiana Dunes area.
Choose Your Dunes Adventure
View AllFew places in the Midwest rival the Indiana Dunes area for birding. More than 350 species live or migrate through here, drawn by the open waters of Lake Michigan into the landscapes of…
Lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes. Of course, you won’t really be lost—we’ve got 70-miles of well-manicured trails perfect for all skill levels...
Our recipe for the perfect day? Just add coastlines, dunes, trails, and plenty of water. Luckily, there’s no shortage of lakes, creeks, and waterways to satisfy your inner aquaphile...
Discover our Blogs
Conquer the Diana Dunes Dare: Hiking Adventure and Ghost Story at Indiana Dunes National Park
- 3 minute read
Have I got a dare for you… complete with physical challenges, scenic views, and even ghost…
Our Favorite Reasons to Explore the Discovery Trail
- 2 minute read
Less than an hour from Chicago, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, is an…
Discovering Snowshoeing in the Indiana Dunes National Park
- 3 minute read
Once the Indiana Dunes area is blanketed in a few inches of snow, you'll start to see people…
Discovering Beauty on the 3 Dune Challenge
- 3 minute read
Take your leaf peeping to a whole new level with the 3 Dune Challenge (Trail 8) at the Indiana Dunes…
Discovering Trails 2 and 10 at Indiana Dunes State Park
- 3 minute read
One of the things my family loves most about the Indiana Dunes State Park is, of course, Lake…
Discover Trail 7 at Indiana Dunes State Park: A Scenic Hike Through Fall Foliage and Stunning Views
- 3 minute read
Autumn is one of my favorite times to visit the Indiana Dunes. The summer crowds are thinning, local…
Waking at Cowles Bog
- 3 minute read
Waking up at dawn to run a trail probably appeals to few people. That’s OK. I’m not…