Discovery Trail Guide

Transcription

Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail Guide
Have you heard the din of ten thousand Sandhill Cranes gathered during
autumn migration? Watched rare Karner blue butterflies floating among
wild lupine blossoms? Stood chest deep in a field of prairie wildflowers? If
not, it’s high time you visited the Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail!
Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail
I
have never seen dunes that equal them in
any degree...the beauty of the plant life in
their native garb is beyond description.
–Stephen Mather, first director of the National Park Service, 1916
This guide is published by Indiana Dunes Tourism and produced in
cooperation with area partners and businesses. Creative direction
and consultation provided by Fermata, Inc. Photographs provided
by Christine Livingston, Daniel Bruhn, Sandy Basala, Alexis Faust,
Brenda Adams-Weyant, and Indiana DNR. Every effort has been
made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within.
Indiana Dunes Tourism is not liable for damages arising from errors
or outdated information. The Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail was
funded in part by Indiana Department of Natural Resources Lake
Michigan Coastal Program.
Indiana Dunes Tourism
1215 North State Road 49, Porter, Indiana 46304
1 (800) 283-8687
www.IndianaDunes.com
Contents
2
3
The Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail
46
Birding the Dunes (hotspots and checklist)
4
Trail at a Glance
56
Blueways (paddling access)
6
Dunes Region
58
Accommodations Listing
24
Moraine Region
60
Orientation Map
38
Kankakee Region
62
Social Media
Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail - www.indianabeyondthebeach.com
Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail
N
o question about it—Northwest Indiana boasts beautiful beaches and a stunning
Lake Michigan shoreline. But there’s far more to the Indiana Dunes region than
surf and sand. Step beyond the beach, and you enter a wildlife-rich landscape of dunes,
barrens, prairies, forests, and wetlands.
The Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail will guide you to 60 sites that showcase this region’s greatest natural and cultural
treasures. Unlike a linear hiking or biking trail, the Discovery Trail allows you to set your own route and visit those
sites that best fit your interests and timetable. You’ll find sites that offer outdoor recreation of all kinds, plus museums and
historic sites that will immerse you in the region’s cultural history. Stop for great dining, shopping, and lodging in the many
welcoming communities of the Beyond the Beach area.
How to Use this Guide: The Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail encompasses three ecologically distinct regions—the
Dunes Region, the Moraine Region, and the Kankakee Region. In this guidebook, we group Discovery Trail sites within the
ecological region in which they are located. Need help planning your route? Check out the itineraries for each region on
pages 23, 37, and 44.
You can use the table on pages 4 and 5 to locate a particular site description within the guide. Or use the orientation map on
pages 60 and 61 to locate sites in an area you’d like to explore. Interested in birding? You’ll find a guide to birding hotspots,
plus a bird checklist, on pages 52-55. Paddlers can refer to our Blueways section on pages 56 and 57. On the activity map
located in the pocket inside the back cover of this guide, we provide a detailed area map, which includes trail
maps for most sites that offer hiking. Use this map, along with the driving directions and GPS coordinates provided in each
site description, to navigate to the sites.
gardens
picnicking
paddling
wildflowers
wildlife
watching
gift shop/
sales
info
camping
swimming
beach
museum
mtn biking
hunting
restrooms/
portable
fishing
nature
programs
historic
site
hiking
bicycling
horseback
riding
birdwatching
x-c skiing
interpretation
birding
hotspots
blueway
sites
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Beyond
BeachDiscovery
Discovery Trail
Trail
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - Beyond
thethe
Beach

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Culture
Gardens
Museum
Historic Site
Birdwatching
Wildflowers
Wildlife Watching
Nature Programs
Trails
Picnicking
Camping
Swimming Beach
Fishing
Paddling
Hunting
Information
Restroom/Portable
Gift Shop - Sales
Facilities
Fee
Recreation Page Number
Trail at a Glance
Nature
Alton Goin Museum at Countryside Park
Dunes
12
N
X
X
H, S, B
X X X
Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery
Moraine
28
N
X
Aukiki Wetland Conservation Area
Kankakee
40
N
X
X
X H, S
X X
Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm
Dunes
14
N
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Site Name
Bluhm County Park
Region
Moraine
27
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
MB, S,
H, E
X
X
Brauer Museum of Art
Moraine
32
N
X
X
Brincka Cross Gardens
Dunes
20
N
X
X
X
X
H
Broken Wagon Bison Farm
Moraine
34
N
X
Calumet Bike Trail
Dunes
14
N
X
X
X
H, S, B
X
Central Avenue Beach Access
Dunes
21
N
X
X X
X
X
X
Century of Progress Homes
Dunes
19
N
X
Chesterton Bandstand & Historic
Business District
Dunes
17
N
X
X
Chustak Public Fishing Area
Moraine
33
N
X
X
X
H
X
Coffee Creek Park
Dunes
18
N
X
H
X
Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve
Dunes
18
N
X
X
X
X
H, S, B
X
X
X
Cowles Bog
Dunes
15
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
Deep River County Park
Moraine
34
N
X
X
X
X
H, S,
E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Deer Trail Park
Dunes
12
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
Depot of Beverly Shores Museum &
Art Gallery
Dunes
20
N
X
X
X
X
X
Dunn’s Bridge County Park
Kankakee
40
N
X
X
X
X
X
X
Forest Park
Moraine
30
N
X
X
H, S
X
X
Foundation Meadows
Moraine
30
N
X
X
H, S, B
X
X
X
Gibson Woods Nature Preserve
Dunes
8
N
X
X
X
X
X
H
X
X
X
Glenwood Dunes Trail
Dunes
18
N
X
X
X
X
H, E, S
X
Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park
Kankakee
42
N
X
X
X
H, S, B
X
X
Hammond Lakefront Park & Bird
Sanctuary
Dunes
8
N
Hawthorne Park
Dunes
16
N
X
X
X
Heron Rookery Trail
Dunes
21
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
Imagination Glen Park
Dunes
13
N
X
X
X
H, B,
MB
X
4
X
Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail - www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
H
Fishing
Paddling
Hunting
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
X
Gift Shop - Sales
Swimming Beach
X
Restroom/Portable
Camping
X
Information
Picnicking
X
Trails
X Nature Programs
Facilities
Wildlife Watching
Recreation Wildflowers
Birdwatching
Y
Historic Site
16
Museum
Dunes
Nature
Gardens
Indiana Dunes State Park
Region
Fee
Site Name
Page Number
Culture
X
X
X
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
Dunes
8
N
X
X
X
X
Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area
Kankakee
41
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kankakee Fish & Wildlife Area
Kankakee
41
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
Kankakee Sands
Kankakee
43
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
Lake View Picnic Area
Dunes
19
N
X
X
H
X
X
X
X
LaSalle Fish & Wildlife Area
Kankakee
42
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
Little Calumet River Trail
Dunes
13
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
Long Lake Public Access Site
Moraine
29
N
X
X
X
Marquette Park
Dunes
9
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
X
Memorial Opera House
Moraine
32
N
X
X
Miller Woods
Dunes
9
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
Mount Baldy
Dunes
21
N
X
X X
X
H
X
X
X
X
Ogden Gardens Park
Moraine
31
N
X
X
Pinhook Bog
Moraine
26
N
X
X
X
X
H
Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk
Dunes
11
N
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
Porter Beach Area
Dunes
15
N
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Porter County Museum of History
Moraine
31
N
Port of Indiana - Burns Harbor
Dunes
11
N
X
Red Mill County Park
Moraine
26
N
X
X
X
Rogers-Lakewood Park
Moraine
29
Y
X
X
X
Salt Creek Public Fishing Area
Moraine
33
N
X
X
X
Stagecoach Inn & Panhandle Depot
Moraine
36
N
X
X
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
H, S, B
X
X
X
X
H
X
X
X
Stoney Run County Park
Moraine
35
N
X
X
X
H, E, S
X
X
Sunset Hill Farm County Park
Moraine
28
Y
X
X
X
X
H
X
X
Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
Moraine
35
Y
X
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
X
X
X
Tolleston Dunes Trail
Dunes
10
N
X
X
X
X
H, S
X
West Beach Dune Succession Trail
Dunes
10
Y
X
X X X
H, S
X
X
X
X
X
X
Westchester Township History Museum
Dunes
17
N
X
X
X
X X
Woodland Park
Dunes
12
N
X
X
H
X
X
X
Zona Wildlife Sanctuary
Moraine
27
N
X
X
X
X
H
X Trails – H = Hiking, S = Cross-country skiing, B = Bicycling, MB = Mountain biking, E = Equestrian
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Sites
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail
5
The Dunes Region
6
Mount Baldy
Stepping Beyond the Beach
Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail
V
isitors to Indiana Dunes Country are often surprised to discover that Indiana not
only has coastline, but that its coast is on Lake Michigan, the fifth largest
freshwater lake in the world! And among visitors fortunate enough to know about this
shoreline, many know it only for its beautiful beaches.
But just beyond the beaches lie some of the world’s largest lakeshore dunes, created by the successive lowering lake levels,
producing three ancient shorelines and today’s shoreline—which formed some 1,500 years ago. Lake currents and the
wind also played, and continue to play, roles in the formation of the beaches and dunes. An incredible variety of plants and
wildlife make their homes among these rolling dunes and in the mosaic of grassland, wetland, woodland, and open-water
habitats around them.
From Portage to Beverly Shores, the Dunes Region is packed with great sites to explore. Walk the West Beach Dune
Succession Trail and take a journey through time as well as space. Beginning on a bare sand beach and ending in an oak
forest, it traces a process in nature that took thousands of years. The process, called succession, is the means by which a
group of plants and animals in a particular place is gradually replaced over time by other, sometimes very different, natural
communities. The concept of succession was introduced by Dr. Henry Chandler Cowles after he visited the dunes, and now
the dunes is known as the birthplace of ecology.
Hike Indiana Dunes State Park’s renowned trails, one of which takes visitors to 192-foot Mount Tom, and enjoy its
expansive beach. Climb Mount Baldy, a “living dune” that stands roughly 125 feet high, and scan the skies for migrating
birds. Walk among native wild lupine blooming along the trails at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore—and perhaps, if
you are lucky, spot rare Karner blue butterfly caterpillars eating their leaves.
Step back in time at the Dunes Region’s many historic sites and museums, like the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm. Explore the grounds of the stunning Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve, or watch for shorebirds and waterfowl along one of
the region’s many lakeshore beaches. And that’s just a sampling of the possible adventures awaiting in the Dunes Region.
Within the Dunes Region, the communities of Portage, Burns Harbor, Porter, Chesterton, Beverly Shores, and The Pines
welcome visitors.
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Dunes Region
7
Site 1: Indiana Dunes
Visitor Center
Directions: Located on State Road 49,
just south of US Route 20.
Description: A visit to the Indiana
Dunes Visitor Center will help orient
you to the Beyond the Beach region and
provide information to help you make
the most of your visit. The Visitor Center
offers a short orientation film, as well as
exhibits and brochures about Porter County,
Indiana Dunes State Park, and Indiana
Dunes National Lakeshore. Don’t miss the
Artist-in-Residence exhibit, which features
artwork inspired by the Indiana Dunes
region. In the Visitor Center gift shop, you’ll
find a great selection of local books and
souvenirs. During business hours (8:00
a.m.-6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor
Day; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. CST off season),
staff members are available to answer
any questions and help you plan your
exploration of the region.
Lat: 41.6337 Long: -87.0539
1215 North State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304
(800) 283-8687
www.indianadunes.com
Site 2: Hammond
Lakefront Park and Bird
Sanctuary
Directions: From Portage, take Interstate
90 (Indiana Toll Road) west to exit 0
(approximately 20 miles). Take exit 0,
merge onto south Indianapolis Boulevard,
and continue 0.7 miles. Take exit toward
Hammond Riverboat/Marina and continue
0.3 miles. Merge onto Casino Center Drive.
Once you turn into the Horseshoe Casino
entrance, take an immediate right at the
end of the entrance ramp. The parking lot
is gated and visitors need to show ID. The
entrance on the far eastern end of the site is
always open.
Description: Though just 16 acres in
size and surrounded by industry, the park
provides a critical stopover for neotropical
migrant birds, which funnel through
the Hammond Lakefront Park and Bird
Sanctuary in astonishing numbers. That’s
why birders have long referred to this site as
“The Migrant Trap.” A rough trail runs the
length of the site, allowing you to scan the
woods and grassy areas for birds.
Lat: 41.4148 Long: -87.3044
701 Casino Center Drive, Hammond, IN
46320, (219) 659-7678
www.hammondindiana.com/lakefront.html
Site 3: Gibson Woods
Nature Preserve
Directions: Follow State Route 921 (Cline
Avenue) south of US Route 20 for about 1
mile. Exit at 169th Street. Travel west (right)
1 mile on 169th Street to Parrish Avenue.
Turn right onto Parrish Avenue and travel
0.8 miles to entrance to Gibson Woods on
your right.
Description: Thousands of years ago,
as Glacial Lake Chicago slowly shrank in
size (eventually occupying the present-day
footprint of Lake Michigan), it left behind a
series of dunes and swales lying parallel to
today’s lakeshore. Though development has
obliterated much of this dune-and-swale
topography, 131-acre Gibson Woods Nature
Preserve safeguards a sizeable remnant of
this landscape. Three trails (totalling about
3.5 miles) traverse the preserve’s dominant
habitat—black oak savanna. The Gibson
Woods Environmental Awareness Center
houses natural history exhibits and live
reptiles and amphibians.
Lat: 41.5993 Long: -87.4518
6201 Parrish Avenue, Hammond, IN 46323
(219) 844-3188
www.lakecountyparks.com/gibson.html
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Site 4: Miller Woods
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Directions: Follow US Route 20 about 1.3
miles west of its junction with State Route 51.
Turn north on Lake Street and follow 0.6 miles
to the trailhead. When the Douglas Center for
Environmental Education is open, there is
ample parking in the lot on the right side of
the road before the overpass. Otherwise,
continue down Lake Street past the overpass
and park in a small lot on the left.
Site 5: Marquette Park
Directions: Follow US Route 20 about
1.3 miles west of its junction with State Route
51. Turn north (right) on Lake Street, follow
1.2 miles to Hemlock Avenue. Turn east
(right) and follow Hemlock Avenue 0.4
miles to Grand Boulevard and turn north
(left). Follow Grand Boulevard one block to
the park entrance.
Description: In 1921, United States Steel
Description: Birders consider this 75-acre
natural oasis amid the industry and urban
environs of Gary among the best birding sites
in the region. Black oaks dominate savanna
woodlands that are home to 287 recorded species
of plants and animals, including the federally
endangered Karner blue butterfly. Ecologist
Henry Chandler Cowles spent much time
studying the Miller Woods area. Hike or ski the
1.1-mile loop trail, which leads past a marsh that
teems with wildlife, including rare blue-spotted
salamanders and western chorus frogs.
Corporation donated lakefront lands along
Gary’s eastern boundary to the city to
provide recreational access to Lake
Michigan. The Gary Parks Department
developed this area into the first lakefront
park in Lake County. In 1932, the park was
renamed in honor of the French explorer
and missionary Pe’re Marquette. The 241acre park offers 1.4 miles of Lake Michigan
beaches, ponds, dunes, wetlands, lagoon,
oak savanna, and two historic Prairie School
structures—the Recreation Pavilion and
the Gary Bathing Beach Pavilion (near the
beachfront playground).
Lat: 41.6061 Long: -87.2678
20 North Lake Street, Gary, IN 46304
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
Lat: 41.6195 Long: -87.2555
1 North Grand Boulevard
Gary, IN 46403, (219) 886-7099
www.gary.in.us/parks/
The Indiana Dunes
Region is a birder’s
paradise. Read about
local birding hotspots
on pages 46-55.
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www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Dunes Region
9
City of Portage
With plenty of trails, parks, and
recreational facilities, Portage is
a haven for outdoor recreation.
It also has one of the only public
marinas in the Beyond the Beach
region where you can launch
onto Lake Michigan and dock your
boat in public slips.
Instead of one centralized
downtown area, Portage offers
several pockets of shops,
restaurants, and recreation
sites where you’ll find gear for
your adventures, a hot meal,
and a comfortable bed at the
end of the day.
While you’re here, stroll along
the city’s beautiful Lakefront and
Riverwalk (Site 8), or hike and
bike its crosstown trails. Drawn to
extreme sports? Catch an event
at the city’s state-of-the-art BMX
bike track, try the skateboarding
half-pipe, or ride your mountain
bike on the Outback Trail (Site 13).
Site 6: West Beach
Dune Succession Trail
Directions: Follow US Route 12 west of
State Route 249. About 3.5 miles west of
State Route 249, turn north on County Line
Road. After crossing the railroad tracks,
turn into the first road on your right to enter
West Beach.
Directions: From State Route 249, head
west on US Route 12 for 2 miles. Trail is
located on the south side of US Route 12.
Description: In just 2.6 miles, this trail
National Lakeshore’s Dune Succession Trail
follows a boardwalk, so you can experience
the dunes without struggling through sand
(although you’ll encounter 250 stairs). As
its name suggests, this 0.9-mile long trail is
a great place to see ecological succession—
from bare beach to wooded dune—at work.
Numbered posts along the trail are part of a
self-guided interpretive trail. You can pick
up a trail brochure at the Indiana Dunes
Visitor Center. The Dune Succession Trail
links with two other trails—Long Lake Trail
and West Beach Trail. In all, the three trails
cover 3.6 miles.
in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
traverses a number of different, beautiful,
and wildlife-rich habitats, including black
oak savanna, Tolleston Dunes, and remnants
of the Great Marsh. Black oak savanna along
the trail hosts plenty of wild lupine—the
sole source of food for the Karner blue
butterfly, a federally listed endangered
species. The lupine blooms in late May, so
that’s a great time to see the butterflies. The
lowland marshes along the trail were once
part of the Great Marsh, which originally
stretched over twelve miles from Gary to
Michigan City. Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore resource managers are working
to restore these marshes. The trail may be
indistinct in places, so carry a map and
watch trail markings carefully.
Lat: 41.6226 Long: -87.2086
Site 1: GPS: N 34.6594, W 87.1104
North County Line Road, Portage, IN 46368
21438 Harris Station Road
(219) 395-1882
Hebron, IN 35671, (256) 353-2634
www.nps.gov/indu
Lat: 41.6150 Long: -87.1927
US Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu/
Description: Most of Indiana Dunes
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Site 7: Tolleston Dunes Trail
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This Dune is Alive
The dunes of this region are in
the midst of an age-old dance
between the disruptive forces of
wind and water and the anchoring
force of plant roots. Much of the
time, anchoring forces lead the
dance, as plants are able to take
root on the dunes and hold sand
in place.
Site 8: Portage
Lakefront and Riverwalk
Directions: From Interstate 94, head
north on State Route 249. Follow the signs
to steel mill and turn left at the second light.
Once you pass over US Route 12, turn
left at the stop sign. Go over the bridge
and turn right at the next road. Follow this
road to the park.
Description: Formerly an industrial site
for National Steel, this 57-acre lakefront
site opened in 2008. Managed jointly by
the National Park Service and the City
of Portage, this area of Indiana Dunes
National Lakeshore features an enclosed
pavilion with an educational classroom,
kitchens and restrooms, an accessible loop
trail, and fishing pier. The pavilion is not
only beautiful, but is Gold LEED-certified,
meaning that it was built with exemplary,
energy-efficient environmental design and
materials. A new concrete cap and handrails
on the breakwater provide easy access for
fishing, birdwatching, and sightseeing.
Lat: 41.6310 Long: -87.1777
6150 US Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 395-1882, www.ci.portage.in.us/department/division.php?fDD=8-192
Site 9: Port of Indiana Burns Harbor
Directions: From the junction of State
Route 149 and US Route 12 in Burns Harbor,
head west on US Route 12 for 1.4 miles.
Take exit on the left toward Port of Indiana
and continue 0.2 miles. Merge onto George
Nelson Drive and continue about 1.3 miles.
Turn right onto Steel Drive and continue 0.2
miles. Most of the area is off-limits to the
public. Visitors must check in at the security
gatehouse, show identification, and stay
within the small public access area. Due to
high security, photography is prohibited.
But some dunes face prevailing
winds at an angle that keeps their
sand in near-constant motion,
preventing plants from rooting.
Known as wandering or living
dunes, these dunes migrate
slowly inland, covering whatever
lies in their paths. Mount Baldy
(Site 31) and Smoking Dune at
West Beach (Site 6) are examples
of living dunes.
At Central Avenue Beach (Site
30), you’ll find a forest that’s been
buried by wind-blown dunes.
Description: Why include a major
industrial site among the best cultural
and natural sites in the Beyond the Beach
region? Because this site offers a captivating
look at both the nature and culture of this
region. Twelve steel processors dominate
the port landscape, and the site’s protected
waters attract great numbers of migrating
and wintering birds.
www.portsofindiana.com
I
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Dunes Region 11
Site 10: Deer Trail Park
Site 11: Woodland Park
Directions: Follow State Route 249 north
of Interstate 94. Turn east onto Ameriplex
Drive and drive approximately 0.75 mile
to the Deer Park trailhead on the left side
of the road.
Directions: Follow US Route 20 west
of State Route 249 for 0.5 mile to
Willowcreek Road. Turn south (left) on
Willowcreek Road and follow 0.5 mile to
the park entrance.
Description: This small park, opened in
Description: This 64-acre park provides
2007, offers many recreational activities,
including hiking, cross-country skiing,
and fishing on the Little Calumet River.
The City of Portage Parks and Recreation
Department did extensive restoration work
at this site, removing non-native plants from
the forest understory. Along the trail, you’ll
see bottomland forest in a state of recovery.
Interpretive panels along the trail explain
the restoration process and tell some of the
park’s ecological stories. From the trail,
you can access the Little Calumet River,
which has notable runs of Skamania
steelhead trout, as well as bass and salmon,
and it is popular among fly anglers. Pick
up Indiana Dunes Tourism’s Fishing
Guide for additional details about fishing
throughout the region.
Lat: 41.6087 Long: -87.1591
Ameriplex Drive, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 762-1675, www.ci.portage.
in.us/department/?fDD=8-0
good wildlife viewing in a suburban setting.
Crabapple trees draw Cedar Waxwings.
Mature oaks shelter small mammals and
songbirds, and native wildflowers attract
butterflies and hummingbirds. A paved trail
leads through a restored oak savanna forest,
and interpretive panels along the way tell
the story of the park’s natural history and
management. The park’s restoration efforts
won a federal Conservation and Native
Landscaping Award in 2001. The park offers
many developed amenities as well, including
a community center (with banquet halls,
gymnasium, and meeting rooms), skate
park, dog park, pre-school, playgrounds,
ball fields, picnic shelters, and a boulder
play area.
Lat: 41.5916 Long: -87.1871
2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 762-1675, www.ci.portage.in.us/
department/?fDD=8-0
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12 Beyond
Beyond the
the Beach
Beach Discovery
Discovery Trail
Trail -- www.indianabeyondthebeach.com
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com
Site 12: Alton Goin Museum at
Countryside Park
of State Route 149 about 4.5 miles to the
museum entrance, located on the north side
of US Route 6. The Camelot Bowling Center
is across from the park entrance.
Description: Located in Countryside
Park and operated by the Portage
Community Historical Society, the Alton
Goin Museum houses many cultural artifacts
from the Portage region. Nearby stands the
timber-framed farmhouse of Charles and
Elizabeth Trager. The Trager Farm Historic
Restoration Project restored the house to
its original late nineteenth/early twentiethcentury style and was completed in 2006.
A barn, milk shed, tool house, and outhouse
complete the farm setting. While visiting the
museum, be sure to explore the surrounding
Countryside Park, which is bordered on
its south side by the 10.4-mile Prairie
Duneland Trail.
Lat: 41.5531 Long: -87.2115
5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 762-8349
www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~inpchs/
Site 13: Imagination
Glen Park
Directions: Follow US Route 20 east
of State Route 249 for about 1 mile. Turn
south on Samuelson Road and drive about
0.8 miles, then turn east (left) on Portage
Avenue. Follow Portage Avenue to the end
at McCool Road, turn south (right) and
enter the park.
Description: The largest park in the
Site 14: Little Calumet
River Trail
Directions: Follow US Route 12 east of
State Route 149. About 1.4 miles from State
Route 149, make a soft right on Oak Hill
Road. Make a right on the first road (Howe
Road) and travel about 0.75 miles to the
trailhead on the right side of the road.
Portage Park system, 256-acre Imagination
Glen Park offers softball and soccer
complexes, a BMX race track, and the
10-mile Outback Trail for mountain biking.
Woodlands cover much of the property,
and Salt Creek meanders through the
center. Unlike many streams in the region,
Salt Creek has not been channelized, so it
offers natural habitat for aquatic plants and
animals. The park includes several rare fens,
with unique and uncommon assemblages
of plant species. The Iron Horse Heritage
Trail borders the southern boundary of the
park, connecting Imagination Glen with
Woodland Park.
Description: The Little Calumet River
Lat: 41.5904 Long: -87.1407
2275 McCool Road, Portage, IN 46368
(219) 762-1675, www.ci.portage.in.us/
department/?fDD=8-0
Lat: 41.6203 Long: -87.0933
Howe Road, Porter, IN 46304
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
Trail, located in the Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore, is part of a 3.9-mile network
of hiking trails that connect the Bailly
Homestead, Chellberg Farm, and the
Dunes Learning Center. The Little Calumet
River Trail passes through the Mnoke
Prairie—120 acres of restored tallgrass
prairie—a once-widespread habitat, now
rare in Indiana. The trail skirts the Little
Calumet River valley, then crosses the
river and follows a boardwalk through wet
bottomlands before climbing to a hardwood
forest and pine plantation.
Unlike many local
streams, Salt
Creek has not been
channelized. Explore
its natural meanders
at Imagination
Glen Park.
I
- TheDiscovery
Dunes Region
www.indianabeyondthebeach.com
- Beyond the Beach
Trail 13
Living from the Land
The phenomenal natural
abundance of the Beyond the
Beach Region has long attracted
people to this landscape.
When French explorers and
missionaries first explored this
area in the late 1600s, members
of the Potawatomi, Miami,
and Ottawa tribes lived here.
They hunted in the immensely
productive wetlands, prairies,
and forests, and gathered wild
rice, cranberries, and many other
plant foods.
One of the earliest non-native
settlers in the region, Honore
Gratien Joseph Bailly de Messein,
moved here in 1822 with his family
and built a fur trading post and
tavern. At Bailly Homestead and
Chellberg Farm (Site 15), you
can immerse yourself in early
settlement life.
Site 15: Bailly Homestead
and Chellberg Farm
Route 149, turn south (right) on Mineral
Springs Road. Travel about 0.75 miles to the
parking lot on the right side of the road.
Description: These two historic sites sit
nearly side-by-side within the Indiana Dunes
National Lakeshore. Honore Gratien Joseph
Bailly de Messein, the first known non-native
resident of Northwest Indiana, set up a fur
trading post here in 1822. The main house
has been restored to its 1917 appearance
and is open for scheduled tours during the
summer. Bailly Cemetery is a 0.8-mile hike
from the homestead. The restored Chellberg
farmhouse looks much as it might have in the
late 1800s and is open to the public during
festivals, demonstrations, and scheduled
ranger-guided tours. Check with the
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (Site 1) for
tour dates and times.
Lat: 41.6239 Long: -87.0926
Site 1: GPS: N 34.6594, W 87.1104
North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304
21438 Harris Station Road
(219) 395-1882
Hebron, IN 35671, (256) 353-2634
www.nps.gov/indu
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Beyond the
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1144 Beyond
Site 16: Calumet Bike Trail
Directions: The trail runs parallel to US
Route 12, between Mineral Springs Road and
Mount Baldy. Parking is available at Mineral
Springs Road, Calumet Dune Interpretive
Center, Beverly Shores Depot, and at US
Route 12 at the Porter/La Porte County Line.
Description: Bike, hike, or ski this 9.1-
mile gravel trail, which skirts the southern
boundaries of Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park.
Prairie habitat lines the trail, and latesummer wildflowers—like cardinal flowers,
blazing stars, asters, fringed gentians, and
great blue lobelia—color the landscape.
Several species of snakes live here, including
blue racers, little brown, and hognose snakes.
Look for them basking along the trail’s edge
in the early morning, or on the move in
autumn as they head to their winter dens.
Restrooms are available at the South Shore
Line station and Cowles Bog trailhead.
Lat: 41.6368 Long: -87.0871
(219) 465-3586
www.indianadunes.com/parks-andrecreation/parks-and-facilities
Town of Burns Harbor
Burns Harbor is a town where
industry coexists with nature.
Incorporated in 1966 in
partnership with a local steel mill,
Burns Harbor has its roots in the
region’s manufacturing industries.
Site 17: Cowles Bog
Route 149, turn north (left) on Mineral
Springs Road. Just before the gatehouse at
Dune Acres, turn right down a narrow gravel
road to reach the trailhead.
Description: Don’t miss the chance to see
Cowles Bog, one of the great natural areas
in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.
Remnant of a once-widespread wetland
system, Cowles Bog encompasses a marsh
surrounding a small fen, where a stand
of tamaracks and white pines grows
on a floating mat of peat moss. Starting near
the guardhouse in the northeastern part of
the site, a boardwalk trail passes marshes
and ponds that host Horned Grebes, Blackcrowned Night Herons, Buffleheads, and a
myriad of other water birds. You can hike
right out to the beach and back on 4.5
miles of interconnecting loop trails. Two
trailheads serve the trail system, each with
a portable toilet.
Lat: 41.6453 Long: -87.0846
North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
Site 18: Porter Beach Area
State Road 49. About 0.3 miles west of
State Road 49, turn north on Waverly
Road, then left on Roskin Road, and right
on Wabash Avenue. Be sure to park in one
of the public parking lots along Wabash to
avoid parking fines.
Description: The Porter Beach area is
a good place to watch raptor migration. In
March and April, hawks, especially buteos,
fly north over the Midwest, riding southerly
winds. These raptors avoid flying over
water, so when they reach Lake Michigan,
they follow the shoreline, sometimes
in groups of as many as 300 birds. The
high dunes in this portion of the National
Lakeshore are great vantage points for
watching this migratory spectacle. Fall
raptor migration is less dramatic, since
the birds don’t tend to mass together.
One exception is the Peregrine Falcon,
which you’re most likely to observe in
early October.
Today ArcelorMittal Steel in Burns
Harbor is one of the area’s largest
employers. It’s the only steel mill
in the world that is flanked on both
sides by national park lands.
Burns Harbor is home to the
first planned community in the
country to receive the National
Green Building Standard from
the National Association of Home
Builders. The eco-friendly homes
of The Village in Burns Harbor
combine old-time charm with
state-of-the-art efficiency.
A town in transition, Burns
Harbor continues to build upon
its vision of community vitality
and sustainability.
Lat: 41.6600 Long: -87.0693
3057 Wabash Avenue, Dune Acres, IN 46304
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu/
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www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Dunes Region 1
15
5
Town of Porter
The Town of Porter’s appeal
dates back centuries. Some of
the region’s earliest non-native
settlers made their homes here.
During your stay, you can visit two
of these historic residences, the
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg
Farm (Site 15), and step back in
time to settlement days.
Rich in history, ecological
diversity, outdoor fun, and smalltown charm, Porter’s familyfriendly atmosphere draws
visitors and residents alike. In
Porter, the Indiana Dunes Visitor
Center (Site 1) provides the
information you need to make
the most of your Beyond the
Beach visit.
While you’re here, explore the
Lake Michigan shoreline at
Porter Beach (Site 18), where you
can swim, comb the beach, and
watch birds. Take time to stroll
through Hawthorne Park (Site
20). Its playgrounds, fishing, and
recreation fields make the park a
magnet for families.
Site 19: Indiana
Dunes State Park
Directions: Follow State Road 49 north of
Interstate 94. North State Road 49 ends at the
state park entrance.
Description: Indiana Dunes State Park
encompasses 2,182 acres of beach, dunes,
marshes, swamps, hardwood forests, and
white pine groves and is surrounded by
National Lakeshore lands. Even on the
busiest summer days, if you head away
from the public beach house, you’ll quickly
lose the crowds. Scan the open water for
waterfowl, comb the beach, and hike some
of the park’s 16.5 miles of trails through
diverse and wildlife-rich habitats. Watch for
birds from the small bird observatory in the
Nature Center. The park provides camping,
picnicking, showers, snack bar, camp store,
and a park naturalist. In summer, the park
offers a small gift shop and a swimming beach
with lifeguards. Interpretive programs are
held daily between Memorial Day and Labor
Day, and on weekends the rest of the year.
Lat: 41.6624 Long: -87.0633
Site 1:
GPS:25
N 34.6594,
W Chesterton,
87.1104
1600
North
East Road,
IN 46304
21438926-1952
Harris Station Road
(219)
Hebron,
IN
35671,
(256)
353-2634
www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm
I
Beyond the
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Beach Discovery
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1166 Beyond
Site 20: Hawthorne Park
of State Road 49. Turn south on Waverly
Road. After crossing the bridge over the
interstate, the entrance to the park will be
on your right. If you continue on Waverly
Road, then turn left on Wabash Avenue to
Calumet Road, you’ll find a variety of
restaurants in Chesterton.
Description: Hawthorne Park offers
a peaceful, well-maintained place to
stop, stretch, and enjoy a picnic. In the
developed portion of the park, you’ll find
picnic shelters, sports fields, a playground,
and a community center. The park borders
a riparian woodland, through which the
Little Calumet River meanders, providing
a quiet spot for fishing and watching birds,
including Downy, Hairy, and Red-bellied
woodpeckers, and many warblers during
spring migration.
Lat: 41.6193 Long -87.0695
500 Ackerman Drive, Porter, IN 46304
(219) 921-1687
www.townofporter.com/parks.htm
Town of Chesterton
Artists have long been drawn
to and inspired by the beauty of
the Beyond the Beach region.
Chesterton has become a hub for
that artistic energy and home to a
vibrant creative scene.
Site 21: Westchester Township
History Museum
Directions: Follow State Road 49 south
of Interstate 94 for about 1.25 miles. Turn
west (right) at Porter Avenue. Follow
Porter Avenue about 1 mile to the entrance
to the museum.
Description: Located in the elegantly
restored 1885 Brown Mansion, the familyfriendly Westchester Township History
Museum features works by local artists
and houses exhibits on the history of
Westchester Township and the saving of
the Indiana Dunes. In summer, the museum
hosts a free concert series on Friday
evenings in downtown Chesterton’s historic
bandstand park. The museum offers many
other free programs throughout the year.
Free tours of the Queen Anne-style mansion
are available Wednesday-Sunday, 1–5 p.m.
or by appointment. Groups of 10 or more
should call to schedule a tour. Museum store
offers books, posters, and maps related to
local history.
Lat: 41.6070 Long: -87.0610
700 West Porter Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 983-9715
www.wpl.lib.in.us/museum
Site 22: Chesterton
Bandstand and Historic
Business District
west (right) at Porter Avenue. Follow Porter
Avenue to Calumet Road and turn north
(right). Follow Calumet Road four blocks to
the business district.
Description: After a major fire in 1902,
townspeople rebuilt Chesterton’s downtown
in brick, and this charming business
district is now on the National Register
of Historic Places. Every Saturday from
early May to late October, the downtown
hosts a European Market, with more than
80 vendors selling a fantastic array of
local foods and goods. A quick walk from
the downtown area is the Chesterton Arts
Center on 4th Street, which showcases
regional art and offers a variety of art
classes. The town park is home to one of
the state’s oldest bandstands, built in 1924.
Nowhere is this scene more
evident than in Chesterton’s
European Market. Every Saturday
from early May to late October,
more than 80 vendors gather in
downtown Chesterton, selling
handcrafts, artisan breads and
cheeses, ethnic foods, plants,
local farm produce, jewelry,
clothing, and more. Artisans
demonstrate their skills in the
park—from pottery making to
glass blowing. Like a Norman
Rockwell painting, Chesterton’s
quaint downtown harkens back
to a bygone era. Don’t miss the
chance to explore its restaurants,
stores, coffee shops, and galleries.
Lat: 41.6111 Long: -87.0532
Calumet Road and Broadway
Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 926-1641, www.chestertonin.org
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7
- Beyond the Beach
Trail 1
Site 23: Coffee Creek Park
Site 24: Coffee Creek
Watershed Preserve
west (right) at Porter Avenue. Follow Porter
Avenue to Calumet Road and turn north
(right). Follow Calumet Road two blocks
and turn east (right) on Morgan Avenue.
After crossing a bridge over a small stream,
look for the park entrance on your left.
of Interstate 94 for about 3 miles. Turn east
(left) at Voyage Boulevard, drive to the end
of Voyage and then left on Village Pointe.
The preserve is on your right and parking is
permitted along the road.
Description: Located next to the historic
Description: This beautiful 151-acre
Chesterton business district, Coffee Creek
Park protects a small lovely oasis of natural
habitat—a good place to view wildlife or
take the kids to enjoy the playground. A
boardwalk trail passes through songbirdrich riparian woodlands that border Coffee
Creek and leads to a small pond that is a
summer home to Belted Kingfishers, ducks,
and Red-winged Blackbirds.
Lat: 41.6106 Long: -87.0503
200 East Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 926-3000
www.chestertonin.org
preserve showcases an inspiring and
aesthetically stunning marriage of nature
and culture. The natural landscape includes
a mix of restored prairie, creek, wetlands,
and woodlands. Preserve planners have
added human infrastructure to that
natural setting and have done so with
careful planning and exquisite attention
to aesthetics, function, and environmental
responsibility. Buildings are constructed
of local materials, like Indiana limestone,
whenever possible. Experience the
beauty by walking the preserve’s 5-mile
trail system.
Lat: 41.5850 Long: -87.0421
Site 1:Road
GPS:49,
N 34.6594,
W 87.1104
State
Chesterton,
IN 46304
21438926-1842
Harris Station Road
(219)
Hebron, IN 35671, (256) 353-2634
Site 25: Glenwood
Dunes Trail
Directions: From Interstate 80/90 or
Interstate 94, exit State Road 49 North to
US Route 20. Turn east (right) on US
Route 20 and travel a little over two
miles to 275 East Road (Brummitt Road).
Turn north (left) to small parking lot
immediately on left.
Description: This 6.4 mile trail has
several cutoffs for those who want to take
a shorter loop. The main trail crosses
ancient beach dunes, which mark the shores
of an earlier and larger version of Lake
Michigan. Along the way, it traverses black
oak woodlands, wetlands, and reclaimed
prairie—habitats that attract a variety of
birds and other wildlife. Popular among
equestrians (it’s the only trail within the
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore open to
horseback riding), Glenwood Dunes Trail
also draws hikers, skiers, and snowshoers.
Lat: 41.3855 Long: -87.0052
Corner of US Route 20 and School House Road
Chesterton, IN 46304, (219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
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Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
Trail--www.indianabeyondthebeach.com
188 Beyond
1
Beverly Shores and
The Pines
Beverly Shores began in 1927
when Fredrick Bartlett bought
3,600 acres here to create a resort
community. His brother, Robert,
took over the project in 1933.
Site 26: Lake
View Picnic Area
State Road 49 for 3 miles. Turn north (left)
at East State Park Road, travel to the end
and turn right on Lake Front Drive. The
public beach access areas are located
along the next half mile of road. There
are a few public parking lots along State
Park Road and Lake Front Drive. Parking is
very limited and lots frequently fill during
warm weekends.
Description: Lake Front Drive parallels
the lake for three miles and provides easy
public access to the lakeshore. While the
Lake View Picnic Area can be crowded
in summer, it’s a great place to picnic and
watch for birds during spring and fall.
The area between the national lakeshore
and Beverly Drive has been designated an
Audubon Important Bird Area. Beverly
Drive offers close-up views of a fascinating
natural community—the interdunal marsh.
Lat: 41.6820 Long: -87.0065
Lake Front Drive, Michigan City, IN 46301
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
I
Site 27: Century of
Progress Homes
State Road 49 for 3 miles. Turn north (left)
at East State Park Road, travel to the end and
turn right on Lake Front Drive. The homes
are located between Dunbar and Derby
Avenues. Park in the lot at Dunbar Avenue
or Lake View and walk to the site. Park in
the lot at Dunbar Avenue or Lake View
to walk past the homes and view them
from the road. Once a year, public tours are
offered. See website for tour dates.
Description: These houses were built
for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair to
demonstrate modern architectural design
and new technologies such as central air
conditioning and dishwashers. Real estate
developer Robert Bartlett brought the houses
to the dunes by barge in 1935. Listed on
the National Register of Historic Places,
the homes are now property of the Indiana
Dunes National Lakeshore.
During the development project,
Robert Bartlett bought five homes
that had been built for Chicago’s
1933-34 Century of Progress
World’s Fair—showcasing the
latest home technologies—and
moved them by barge to Lake
Front Drive (Site 27).
Today, Beverly Shores is a
great spot for birding and
beachcombing throughout the
year. Stop by the Depot of Beverly
Shores Museum and Art Gallery
(Site 28) to learn more about this
eclectic community.
Located inland from Beverly
Shores, The Pines is named for
the pine barrens habitat in which
the town was built. This small
community is home to the state’s
shortest highway, State Route
520, a four-lane road just 1,000
feet in length.
Lat: 41.6844 Long: -87.0006
241 West Lake Front Drive
Beverly Shores, IN 46301
(219) 395-1882, www.nps.gov/indu
I
- TheDiscovery
Dunes Region
- Beyond the Beach
Trail 19
At 126 feet high
and moving inward
at an average rate of
four feet per year,
Mt. Baldy is the
largest moving dune
within Indiana Dunes
National Lakeshore.
Site 28: Depot of Beverly
Shores Museum and
Art Gallery
State Road 49 for 4.5 miles. At the traffic
light at Broadway, turn north (left). Cross
the tracks and make the first right turn into
the parking lot behind the depot.
Description: The Beverly Shores Depot
was built in 1929 as part of the Chicago,
South Shore & South Bend Railroad, an
electric interurban rail line. Today, the
renovated waiting room still serves train
commuters. The South Shore Line is the
nation’s last electric interurban line and
transports 3.4 million passengers annually
by electric rail to sites between Chicago and
South Bend, Indiana. The station agent’s
house has been converted into a museum
and art gallery, open from April through
October. The Depot museum showcases
the town’s history and architecture, and
the gallery features work of local artists.
A gift shop offers art, postcards, posters,
and books.
Lat: 41.6736 Long: -86.9857
525 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301
(219) 878-1517
200 Beyond
2
Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
Site 29: Brincka
Cross Gardens
State Road 49 for 5.2 miles. At the flashing
light, turn south (right) on North 500 East
Road. Follow for one-half mile. Before the
school, turn west (right) on E. Furness Road
and follow about 1 mile to entrance on right
(just before the intersection with North 425
East Road).
Description: Beautiful Brincka Cross
Gardens opened to the public for the first
time in 2010. William Brincka, professor
at the Art Institute of Chicago, put his
artistry to work when he designed the 3.9
acres of gardens on this 25-acre site. The
gardens hold 40 varieties of magnolias
and 40 varieties of crab apple trees. Some
400 kinds of hosta grace the hosta garden
near a screened tea room. In springtime, 25
varieties of forsythia brighten the gardens,
and thousands of daffodils light the nearby
woods. Schedule visits in advance. Parking
extremely limited.
Lat: 41.6585 Long: -86.9853
427 East Furness Road, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 465-3586, www.indianadunes.com/parksand-recreation/parks-and-facilities
Site 30: Central Avenue
Beach Access
State Road 49 for about 7 miles. At Central
Avenue turn north (left) and continue until
you reach the parking lot for the beach.
Description: During the spring and
summer, the Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore’s shoreline near Central Avenue
is a great place to watch Bank Swallows
flying to and from their nest burrows in the
dunes. Spring and fall offer great shorebird
and waterfowl viewing. Just past the gate
on the entrance road, you’ll see a buried
forest, created when wind-blown sands
inundated the trees. Nearby, you can
access the northeast end of the Calumet
Bike Trail. This 9.1-mile gravel trail
passes flower-filled fields, marshes, and
woodlands. Lifeguards are not provided at
Central Avenue Beach Access.
Lat: 41.7014 Long: -86.9504
Central Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
I
Site 31: Mount Baldy
Site 32: Heron Rookery Trail
State Road 49 for about 8.3 miles. At the
county line, Route 12 makes 2 sweeping
curves. After the second curve, watch for
the entrance to the park immediately
on your left.
from Beverly Shores. Turn south (right) on
County Line Road and follow for 4.4 miles
to East 1275 North Road. Turn west (right)
on 1275 and follow for 1 mile. Turn north
(right) on North 600 East Road and watch
for the trailhead on the left. No amenities
and parking is limited.
Description: At roughly 125 feet tall,
Mount Baldy is the largest “living” dune in
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. As the
dune moves, it buries everything in its path,
including trees. Over the last several years,
Mount Baldy has begun moving inland at an
increased pace. The reason for the steppedup movement seems to be a combination of
too little dune grass on top of Mount Baldy
and too many people climbing its southern
slope. Please remain on the trail to help
conserve vegetation. In addition to the trail
to the summit of Mount Baldy, you’ll find
shore access and a picnic area in the woods
behind the dunes. No lifeguards.
Lat: 41.7069 Long: -86.9301
US Route 12, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
I
Description: For more than 60 years,
herons nested here along the Little
Calumet River. Though the heron rookery
is no longer active, the 1.6-mile trail
is a good spot for viewing other bird
species. The oak savanna habitat near
the abandoned rookery is also home to
Karner blue butterflies, federally
listed as endangered. National Lakeshore
resource managers conduct prescribed
burns to maintain open savanna habitat.
Lat: 41.6269 Long: -86.9523
North 600 East Road
Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 395-1882, www.nps.gov/indu
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- Beyond the Beach
Trail 21
- TheDiscovery
Dunes Region
P ioneering ecologist Dr. Henry Chandler Cowles considered the Indiana Dunes a “meeting
ground of trees and wild flowers from all directions…a marvelous cosmopolitan preserve, a veritable
floral melting pot.” –from Sacred Sands, by J. Ronald Engel, 1986
2222 Beyond
Beyond the
the Beach
Beach Discovery
Discovery Trail
The Dunes Region Itineraries
While every Dunes Region site is worth visiting, if you’re short on time, you’ll only be
able to visit a few. Below are recommendations for great sites to visit in a day…or two.
Spend a Day
Or
•
•
Start at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
(Site 1) for maps and birding, fishing, or biking
companion guides. Be sure to pick up the Indiana
Dunes Country Activities Guide. This guide will
provide detailed information about restaurants
and accommodations in the Dunes, Moraine, and
Kankakee regions as you explore the trail.
•
Climb the highest sand dune in Indiana! Mt. Tom
at Indiana Dunes State Park (Site 19) is located
along state park trails 4 and 8 and towers 192 feet
above Lake Michigan. Sledding and cross-country
ski trails at this park are great in the winter. In
warmer months, we suggest you camp here and
spend days exploring the entire park.
•
Café and restaurant options are plentiful in the
Duneland area, which includes Chesterton, Porter,
Burns Harbor, and Beverly Shores.
•
For an afternoon of history and culture, head
toward Lake Front Drive in Beverly Shores and
view the Century of Progress Homes (Site 27) from
the street. After your driving tour of the homes,
stop in at the Depot of Beverly Shores Museum and
Art Gallery (Site 28).
•
The Lake View Picnic Area (Site 26) is a great
place to watch the sunset (as well as spring and fall
waterfowl for birding enthusiasts).
For more solitude, wander the trail through
marshes, oak savanna, and dunes at Cowles Bog
(Site 17). You can watch for birds and see unique
plant communities. In the winter, after a heavy
snow, hit the trails for some invigorating crosscountry skiing.
Add a day and make it a
weekend!
•
Hang out for the evening and enjoy indoor
or outdoor dining in one of the Duneland
communities. Check the Activities Guide
for details.
•
Stay overnight at a bed and breakfast
or a nearby hotel located in the Duneland
communities (see accommodations listings
on pages 58 and 59).
•
Tired after your first day or not up for
hiking? You can watch the sunrise (or sunset)
right from your car in the west lot at the Indiana
Dunes State Park (Site 19).
•
On your second day, head to West Beach (Site
6) and explore the nearly one-mile succession
trail that will lead you from the beach, through
blowouts with intermittent ponds, over dunes,
and through the woods. Jack Pines grow along the
trail much further south of their range. A favorite
of beach goers, West Beach has more to offer
those who have the time to wander inland.
•
Have lunch (or dinner) just a short drive away
in Portage. Check the Activities Guide for details.
•
After lunch, check out Portage’s newest
park—Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (Site 8).
Managed jointly by the Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore and the City of Portage, this area
features an enclosed pavilion with restrooms,
an accessible loop trail, and a fishing pier. The
pavilion is not only beautiful, but is Gold LEED
certified, built with exemplary, energy-efficient
environmental design and materials. A new
concrete cap and handrails on the breakwater
provide easy access for fishing, birdwatching, and
sightseeing.
Or
•
Immerse yourself in local history at the
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm (Site 15).
View spring wildflowers and the Mnoke prairie,
hike, or do some birdwatching. You might also
time your visit to coincide with the Maple Sugar
Time event in March.
- The Discovery
Dunes Region
23
3
- Beyond the Beach
Trail 2
The Moraine Region
24 Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail - www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com
Prairie in bloom at Taltree Arboretum and Gardens
Sculpted by Glaciers
Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail
W
hile glaciers shaped all of Indiana Dunes Country, the Moraine Region
showcases their phenomenal earth-moving power. Picture a force of nature a
mile high and as wide as your eyes can see. That was the power of the Wisconsin ice sheet
as it pushed slowly south from Canada, reaching as far as central Indiana. The enormous
glacier gathered immense amounts of debris—from sand to giant boulders—as it scraped
over the land. As the climate warmed about 16,000 years ago, the glacier melted back to
the north, depositing its debris as it retreated.
That debris formed the hills—what scientists call glacial moraines—of the Moraine Region. Glaciation shaped many of the
sites people can see when they explore this region—from Pinhook Bog, which formed from a glacial ice chunk left behind
by the retreating glacier, to Taltree Arboretum and Gardens, perched atop the Valparaiso Moraine, with its 360 acres of
woody plant collections, formal gardens, wetlands, woodlands, and restored prairies.
The two communities within the Moraine region—Hebron and Valparaiso—invite people to discover quintessential
Midwestern living, from the peaceful small-town feel of Hebron to the lively college-town atmosphere of Valparaiso.
- The
Moraine
Region
Beyond the
Beach
Discovery
Trail 25
What makes a bog a bog?
In the Beyond the Beach region,
you can visit Indiana’s only
true bog—Pinhook Bog (Site
34). An impermeable layer of soil
or rock underlies a true bog, so
that it only receives new water
through precipitation and runoff.
Very few plants can survive in the
highly acidic and nutrient-poor
waters of true bogs, and many
of these have amazing survival
adaptations. When you explore
Pinhook Bog (open only during
a scheduled open house), watch
for carnivorous plants like roundleafed sundew and pitcher plant.
Cowles Bog (Site 17) is actually
a fen, since a break in the clay
layer that underlies it allows
groundwater to flow in. This
fresh water decreases the
fen’s acidity and creates habitat
for a somewhat different array
of plants than you’ll see at
Pinhook Bog.
Site 33: Red Mill
County Park
Site 34: Pinhook Bog
Route 421 and US Route 20 in Michigan
City, drive 4 miles south on US Route 421.
Take a slight left onto N. Holmesville Road
and continue 1.5 miles. The entrance to the
park will be on your left.
from Beverly Shores. Turn south (right) on
US Route 421 and follow for about 3 miles
to West 200 North Road. Turn east (left) on
200 and follow for 2.25 miles to Wozniak
Road. Turn south (right) and watch for the
trailhead on the left after about 1.2 miles.
Description: Part of the LaPorte County
Description: A visit to Pinhook Bog
Parks system, this park encompasses 160
acres of forests, meadows, wetlands, and
open water, including the headwaters of the
Little Calumet River. Near the parking area,
you’ll find fishing access, picnic areas, trails,
restrooms, and a playground. The Patricia
J. Smith rental hall is available for functions
and offers a kitchen, large dining room, and
scenic patio area. The park also includes
a 108-acre nature preserve with 2.5 miles
of hiking trails that traverse the preserve’s
varied habitats. In spring, watch for spotted
coralroot, a delicate orchid that grows in the
oak woodlands here.
should be on every nature-lover’s itinerary.
Though part of the Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore, the bog is located several
miles inland, separate from the rest of the
park. You can only visit the bog during a
scheduled open house with a park service
ranger, and it’s an effort well worth making.
Pinhook Bog is Indiana’s only true bog.
A floating boardwalk traverses the bog,
and from it you’ll see insect-eating plants,
tamaracks, blueberry bushes, and sphagnum
moss that tolerate the highly acidic bog
water. The Indiana Dunes National
Lakeshore offers regularly scheduled
interpretive walks. Call for the next
scheduled program.
Lat: 41.6031 Long:-86.8794
185 South Holmesville Road
LaPorte, IN 46350, (219) 325-8315
www.laportecountyparks.org
Lat: 41.6150 Long: -86.8484
227 North Wozniak Road, La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 395-1882
www.nps.gov/indu
Directions: From the junction of US
Site 35: Bluhm
County Park
Route 421 and US Route 20 in Michigan
City, drive 9.2 miles south. Turn right onto
West 400 South Road and continue 0.9
miles. Turn right onto South 1100 West and
continue 0.2 miles. The main parking area is
on your right.
Description: This park encompasses 96
acres of upland forest, wetlands, prairie,
and a pond. Known for its lovely native
wildflowers, the park consists of two parcels
of land joined by a narrow greenway. The
West Woods area offers great trails for
mountain biking, horseback riding, skiing,
and hiking. Near the westside parking area,
you’ll find restrooms, playground, volleyball
court, picnic tables, and a three-acre, noleash dog park (fee charged). The Gust
Trail leads to wetlands that attract much
bird life. Trails also traverse the 31-acre
Bluhm East Woods, including the 1.5-mile,
multiple-use Lincoln Memorial Trail and a
parallel horse trail.
Lat: 41.5521 Long: -86.9150
3855 South 1100 West Road
Westville, IN 46391, (219) 325-8315
www.laportecountyparks.org
Site 36: Zona
Wildlife Sanctuary
Directions: Follow US Route 6 east from
State Road 49 for 4.5 miles to North 550
East Road. Turn north (left) on 550 and
follow 2 miles to East 950 North Road.
Turn east (right) on 950 and watch for the
trailhead on your left. Limited parking.
Description: This 92-acre woodland
preserve protects indigenous plants and
wildlife. A short figure-eight trail of less
than one mile creates a scenic route
through the forest. Picnic tables, benches,
and interpretive panels are located along
the trails. The sanctuary is a great spot
for year-round explorations. Watch for
spring and summer wildflowers, migratory
and nesting birds, fall colors, and wildlife
tracks in winter snow. The sanctuary offers
volunteer-led interpretive walks and
talks by appointment. Restrooms and a
dog-waste bag dispenser for dog walkers
are located at the trailhead.
Though adult Karner
blue butterflies sip
the nectar of many
kinds of flowers,
their larvae
(caterpillars) only
eat wild lupine leaves.
Lat: 41.5767 Long: -86.9486
601 East 950 North Road
Westville, IN 46391, (219) 465-3586
www.portercowildlife.org/sanctuary.html
I
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Moraine Region 27
City of Valparaiso
If you’re looking for a delicious
meal, Valparaiso is hard to beat.
From mom-and-pop eateries
to fine dining, its many
restaurants are sure to please
a wide range of tastes.
Home to Valparaiso University,
which attracts students from
around the world, Valparaiso
hums with vitality evident in its
charming historic downtown,
with its many boutiques, sidewalk
cafes, farmer’s market, and
outdoor summer concerts.
The performing arts continue to
be a vital part of the city’s identity
and character. Valparaiso’s
Memorial Opera House (Site
45) has showcased regional and
national talent since 1893, and
the Chicago Street Theatre has
entertained audiences since 1955.
Check theatre schedules during
your visit and catch a performance
if you can.
Site 37: Anderson’s
Vineyard and Winery
Site 38: Sunset Hill
Farm County Park
Directions: Located along US Route 6,
State Road 49 to Meridian Road (traffic
light). Turn south (left) on Meridian Road
and watch for the park entrance on your left.
3.5 miles east of State Road 49.
Description: The Anderson family began
growing fruit in the Valparaiso area in 1927,
and Anderson’s Vineyard and Winery was
established in 1994. The winery specializes
in light, fruity wines produced from fruit and
grapes grown in the Midwest region. They
offer a variety of interesting wines, including
Rhubarb Blush and Blueberry. Their gift
shop sells locally made jams and jellies,
local crafts, beer and wine making supplies,
and fresh produce (in season). Call to find
out about tours and other events. Free wine
tastings are available throughout the year.
Lat: 41.5486 Long: -86.9785
430 East US Route 6, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 464-4936
www.andersonswinery.com
288 Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail - www.indianabeyondthebeach.com
2
Description: Sunset Hill Farm County
Park is a lovely 235-acre park where you’ll
find a primitive campground, several
miles of trails, picnic and play areas,
demonstration crops, and an amphitheater.
The park’s hiking trails traverse both prairie
and woodland, where you can see birds and
other wildlife. A working dairy farm until
1978, the park still grows demonstration
crops as part of its educational mission to
cultivate respect and understanding for
earth’s natural resources. The park offers
scheduled naturalist programs, wagon rides,
and numerous special events year round.
Lat: 41.5464 Long: -87.0638
775 Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-3586, www.indianadunes.com/
parks-and-recreation/parks-and-facilities
Site 39: Long Lake
Public Access
and travel 2 miles to East 600 North Road.
Turn east (left) on 600 and travel for 0.7
miles to West Long Lake Road. Turn north
(left) on West Long Lake and follow 0.2
miles to the launch entrance on your right.
No amenities and parking is very limited.
Description: Not to be confused with
the Long Lake within the Indiana Dunes
National Lakeshore in Portage, Valparaiso’s
Long Lake is part of a cluster of small lakes
known as the Chain of Lakes. Though
surrounded by private property, the lake
is a perfect spot for angling or birding.
This small public access area offers a
concrete boat launch. Small motor boats
are permitted, with a maximum speed of
10 mph. This launch is tucked away, but
provides boating access to the beautiful
Chain of Lakes.
Lat: 41.5246 Long: -87.0517
East 600 North Road
Valparaiso, IN 46383,
(219) 879-5710, www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild
Site 40: RogersLakewood Park
and travel 2.25 miles to the park entrance
on your left.
Description: Nestled on 122 acres
of rolling woodlands on Valparaiso’s
northwest side, this park offers picnic
pavilions, a sledding hill, a disc golf course,
and a skateboard park. Lakewood Link, a
two-mile foot/bike trail, connects RogersLakewood Park to Foundation Meadows.
The rolling terrain and size of this park make
it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.
Two lakes accommodate fishing, boating
(paddle and rowboat rentals available) and
wildlife viewing. The park has many mature
trees, from park-like stands with mowed
grass to natural oak forest.
The Dunes support
tremendously diverse
plant life - from arctic
bearberries to prickly
pear cacti. Over 90
endangered plant
species are within the
park’s boundaries.
Lat: 41.5194 Long: -87.0656
5320 North Meridian Road
Valparaiso, IN 46385
(219) 462-5144, www.valpoparks.org
The Moraine
Region
- Beyond the -Beach
Discovery
Trail 29
Site 41: Foundation
Meadows
Foundation Meadows
provides milkweed,
nectar, and shelter to
sustain monarchs as
they migrate across
the country. It‘s an
official Monarch
Waystation certified
by Monarch Watch.
Site 42: Forest Park
Directions: From downtown Valparaiso,
follow Lincolnway west a few blocks to
North Campbell Street (traffic light). Turn
north (right) and travel about 2 miles to the
park entrance on your right.
north (right) and travel about 0.8 miles to
Harrison Boulevard and turn west (left).
Travel past Ogden Gardens a short distance
to the park entrance on your left.
Description: Foundation Meadows
Description: Though Forest Park is just
Lat: 41.4980 Long: -87.0638
2310 North Campbell Street
Lat: 41.4787 Long: -87.0693
851 Harrison Boulevard, Valparaiso, IN 46385
(219) 462-5144
www.valpoparks.org
showcases the efforts of the Valparaiso
Department of Parks and Recreation to
restore prairie and wetland ecosystems that
existed on these 20 acres before they
were used for farming. A mowed path
leads through a prairie meadow and
designated Monarch Waystation. The
park offers nature programs during the
summer—call ahead for information. Silver
Lake adjoins the park, and this marshy
pond is a good place to see waterfowl
during migration. A two-mile trail, known
as Lakewood Link, connects this park with
Rogers-Lakewood Park. The park also offers
the nature-themed “Butterfly Meadows”
children’s playground, a memorial garden,
a community garden, and restrooms.
3
ten acres in size, it’s a lovely spot for a
stroll or a family picnic. Oak and hickory
dominate the woodlands here. You can
wander along trails through two acres of
forest floor restoration, installed by the
parks department. Removing non-native
plants from the understory and planting
native wildflowers and shrubs has provided
a place to enjoy a native habitat inside the
city. You’ll also find two picnic pavilions,
restrooms, and a playground here.
Site 43: Ogden Gardens Park
north (right) and travel about 0.8 miles to
Harrison Boulevard and turn west (left). A
small parking area is located on the left side
of the road.
Description: Ogden Gardens’ ten acres
feature manicured flower gardens beautifully
arranged with annuals, perennials, roses,
shrubs and trees. A network of pathways
traverse the park, past streams, bridges,
a pond, and a tea house. For a small fee,
visitors can rent a wooden gazebo that’s
well suited to weddings and other special
gatherings. Hummingbirds and butterflies
frequent the gardens in summer, and many
songbirds are drawn here as well. Managed
by the Valparaiso Department of Parks and
Recreation, these formal gardens are well
worth a visit.
Lat: 41.4795 Long: -87.0669
Harrison Boulevard and North Campbell
Site 44: Porter County
Museum of History
Route 30 and State Route 2/Washington
Street, travel north on Washington Street
for 0.6 miles. Turn right on Indiana Avenue
and travel one block (.07 miles) to Franklin
Street. The museum will be on your right
after the intersection.
Description: Included in the National
Register of Historic Places, the former
sheriff’s residence and Porter County Jail
are historic in their own right and home to
a variety of historical treasures. Exhibits are
displayed throughout the former residence
and in jail cells. The museum is open
to the public Wednesday and Thursday
2-8pm, Friday and Saturday 10-4pm, and
Sunday 12-5pm. Tours can be scheduled by
appointment.
Cowles Bog contains
the only remaining
wild stand of
northern white
cedar in Indiana.
Lat: 41.4668 Long: -87.0594
153 South Franklin Street
(219) 465-3595, www.portercountymuseum.org
The Moraine
Region
31
1
- Beyond the -Beach
Discovery
Trail 3
Site 45: Memorial Opera House
Don’t miss the
chance to see a
show—from lunchtime
cabaret to concerts
and musicals—at
the Memorial
Opera House.
Directions: From the junction of US Route
30 and State Route 2/Washington Street,
travel north on Washington Street for 0.6
miles. Turn right on Indiana Avenue and travel
0.1 mile (past Franklin Street intersection).
The opera house will be on your right.
Description: On the National Register
of Historic Places, the handsome Memorial
Opera House was built in 1893 by the Grand
Army of the Republic (GAR) as a memorial to
the county’s Civil War veterans. In continual
use since then, the Opera House has hosted
such notable performers as conductor John
Phillip Sousa and the Marx Brothers. A
renovation of this historic building began in
1993 and was completed in the spring of 1998.
The architects tried to make the renovation as
historically accurate as possible, and added
design elements that were common during
the 1890s. Free guided tours are offered by
appointment and are well worth the effort. Be
sure to check their program schedule to see
what productions are showing during your
visit to the region.
Lat: 41.4668 Long: -87.0594
104 Indiana Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 548-9137, www.mohlive.com
Site 46: Brauer
Museum of Art
Directions: The Brauer Museum of Art is
located in the Valparaiso University Center
for the Arts. From Chicago, take Toll Road
80/90 East. Take exit 31 (Chesterton) to
State Road 49 South. Travel 9 miles on
State Road 49 and take the 2nd Valparaiso
exit (US Route 30 west). Go to Sturdy
Road/130W and take a right. Take a left
onto Chapel Drive. The Center for the Arts
will be on your right.
Description: The Brauer Museum of
Art maintains a permanent collection of
19th, 20th, and 21st-century American art
(including Midwestern regional art) and
international religious art. Represented
artists include Frederic Edwin Church,
Asher B. Durand, Childe Hassam, Georgia
O’Keeffe, and Ed Paschke. The museum
contains the largest known collection of
paintings by Junius R. Sloan (1827-1900),
a Hudson River School artist who painted
some of the earliest depictions of settlement
life on the Midwestern prairie. Please
check the museum website for hours. Free
admission (donations welcome), and free
tours by appointment.
Lat: 41.4644 Long: -87.0396
1709 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 464-5365, (219) 465-7926 (tours)
www.valpo.edu/artmuseum
I
3
Site 47: Chustak Public
Fishing Area
Directions: Follow State Route 149 south
of US Route 6 for 2 miles. Turn west (right)
at West 600 North Road and watch for the
entrance on your left. No amenities and
parking is limited.
Description: This 76-acre public fishing
area offers access to Salt Creek, where
you’ll find excellent small-stream trout
and salmon fishing as fish leave Lake
Michigan and head upstream on seasonal
spawning runs. For non-anglers, the site
provides a narrow trail that follows Salt
Creek’s meanderings through a scenic
riparian bottomland. Pick up Indiana Dunes
Tourism’s Fishing Guide for additional
details about fishing throughout the region.
Lat: 41.5217 Long: -87.1308
West 600 North Road
South Haven, IN 46385
Site 48: Salt Creek Public
Fishing Area
Directions: Follow State Route 149 north
of State Route 130 for 1 mile. Turn west (left)
on West 500 North Road and travel 1 mile
to the entrance on your left. The parking
area is located across from McCool Road.
No amenities and parking is limited.
Description: This 75-acre public fishing
area provides access to Salt Creek, where
you’ll find excellent small-stream trout
and salmon fishing as fish leave Lake
Michigan and head upstream on seasonal
spawning runs. Salt Creek has notable
runs of Skamania steelhead, and is popular
among fly anglers. For non-anglers, the
site offers several narrow trails that follow
Salt Creek’s meanderings through a scenic
riparian bottomland. Pick up Indiana Dunes
Tourism’s Fishing Guide for additional
details about fishing throughout the region.
A cottonwood tree
possesses unique
adaptive skills. When
buried by blowing
sand, its branches
can form roots,
and its roots, when
uncovered, can
form branches.
Lat: 41.5071 Long: -87.1428
West 500 North Road
The Moraine
Region
- Beyond the -Beach
Discovery
Trail 33
Site 49: Broken Wagon
Bison Farm
Housed in a 1904
church, Deep River
County Park’s
visitor center, open
May through
October, offers
handmade crafts
and specialty items.
Directions: Follow State Route 130 west
of Valparaiso. About 2 miles west of State
Route 149, watch for North 475 West Road.
Turn south (left) on 475 and travel a short
distance to West 450 North Road. Turn
west (right) on 450 and travel about 0.8
miles to the Broken Wagon Bison Farm on
your right.
Description: This family farm raises
American bison—the iconic species of
the American prairie. At the farm, visitors
can see bison in the fields and buy a range
of bison products, including roasts and
steaks, sausage, and jerky. The farm offers
the opportunity to buy food that is not
only locally grown, but is truly of this
landscape—native to the Midwest.
Groups can arrange to tour the farm and
see the bison, or individuals and families
can join the set tours 11:00 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Saturdays from June to September.
Lat: 41.5001 Long: -87.1751
563 West 450 North Road
Hobart, IN 46342
(219) 759-3523
www.brokenwagonbison.com
Site 50: Deep River
County Park
Directions: To historic site: Travel US
Route 30 to State Route 51 then north to
the first stop sign (Old Lincoln Highway).
Turn right (east) onto Old Lincoln Highway
then 2.5 miles to the park.
Description: Deep River County Park
offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and
pure fun within its 1,200-acre site. In
1837-38, John Wood built a sawmill and
gristmill here along the Deep River, creating
Lake County’s first settlement industry.
Park visitors can explore the gristmill and
the neighboring Deep River Visitor Center,
housed in a 1904 church. Trails lead from
here to lovely natural areas throughout the
park. Visitors can fish, hike, ski, horseback
ride, picnic, and take hayrides (autumn).
Lat: 41.4759 Long: -87.2223
9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342
(219) 947-1958
www.lakecountyparks.com/deepriver.html
I
344 Beyond
3
Beyond the
the Beach
Beach Discovery
Discovery Trail
Site 51: Taltree
Arboretum and Gardens
Valparaiso. Turn south (left) at North 500
West Road (traffic light) and travel 1.5 miles
to West 100 North Road. Turn east (left)
and the entrance will be approximately 0.5
mile on your right.
Description: Founded by Damien and
Rita Gabis in 1997, Taltree Arboretum and
Gardens sits atop the Valparaiso Moraine
and offers 360 acres of woody plant
collections, formal gardens, wetlands,
woodlands, and prairies. More than three
miles of trails will lead you through Taltree’s
diverse landscape, which includes the
Railway Garden, a 2.5-acre outdoor garden
featuring a model railway—complete with
mountains, tunnels, bridges, and miniature
plantings—where visitors can learn about
American railroads. More than 80 bird
species live at Taltree, including Bobolinks,
Grasshopper Sparrows, Green Herons, and
migrating warblers.
Lat: 41.4488 Long: -87.1528
(219) 462-0025, www.taltree.org
Site 52: Stoney Run
County Park
of Hebron about 3.9 miles toward Leroy.
At 145th Avenue turn right. The Korean
Veterans Memorial is on your left. Continue
past it on 145th for 2.5 miles to the park.
Description: Stoney Run County Park
encompasses 316 acres of oak-hickory
woodlands, ponds, ravines, and open
meadows. Visitors can picnic by the water
and hike or ski on eight miles of trails. A
trail around the park’s perimeter is open
to horseback riding. During your visit, you
can also fish in park ponds, watch wildlife,
take a hayride in autumn, camp, enjoy
wildflowers in spring and summer, and visit
the playground and playing fields. The park’s
Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors U.S.
citizens who fought in the Vietnam War,
and pays tribute to the 261 Lake County
servicemen who died during that conflict.
The Railway Garden’s
magical landscape
of model bridges,
tunnels, and, of
course, trains,
captivates visitors to
Taltree Arboretum
and Gardens.
Lat: 41.3599 Long: -87.2251
142nd and Union Street
Leroy, IN 46355, (219) 769-7275,
www.lakecountyparks.com/stoneyrun.html
I
- Beyond the -Beach
DiscoveryRegion
Trail 35
The Moraine
Town of Hebron
Though located just 50 miles from
Chicago, Hebron still offers a
down-home, please-and-thankyou slice of the Midwest. Proud
of its pioneer roots and farming
heritage, Hebron’s pioneer
history began in 1835 when Judge
Jessie Johnson, first judge of
Porter County’s Probate Court,
settled here.
In 1863, the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati,
and St. Louis Railroad built a line
through Hebron, linking it with
the country’s major cities. You
can still visit the restored railway
depot, which now serves as a
railroad museum (Site 53).
As you explore Hebron,
watch for outdoor murals that
depict scenes from the town’s
history and heritage. Several
community parks offer open
spaces for picnicking, festivals,
concerts, and sports.
Site 53: Stagecoach Inn and
Panhandle Depot
Directions: The two museums are located
at 127 North Main Street in Hebron. Main
Street is also known as State Route 2.
Description: Open from June through
September, the Stagecoach Inn and
Panhandle Depot are museums of the
Hebron Historical Society. The Stagecoach
Inn, built in 1849, is a saltbox style house
that has variously served as an inn,
residence, post office, and museum over the
years. Several rooms within the Stagecoach
Inn are furnished with period items and
display important community artifacts. Built
in 1868 by the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and St.
Louis Railroad, the Panhandle Depot closed
in the 1960s, and the railroad discontinued
rail service to Hebron in 1978. The rails have
since been removed. The Hebron Historical
Society bought the depot to preserve it from
demolition and later moved it to its present
location and restored it. The Panhandle
Depot houses local railroad memorabilia
and an exhibit on local military service.
Lat: 41.3194 Long: -87.1997
127 North Main Street
Hebron, IN 46341
(219) 996-3192
3
Once a train depot
in Hebron, the
Panhandle Depot
now exhibits
local railroad and
military memorabilia.
The Moraine Region Itineraries
While every Moraine Region site is worth visiting, if you’re short on time, you’ll only be
able to visit a few. Below are recommendations for great sites to see in a day…or two.
Spend a Day
Or
•
companion guides. Be sure to pick up the
Indiana Dunes Country Activities Guide.
This guide will provide detailed information
about restaurants and accommodations in the
Dunes, Moraine, and Kankakee regions as you
explore the trail.
•
•
weekend!
Head to Taltree Arboretum and Gardens (Site
51) to explore formal gardens as well as restored
native landscapes. Hike the trails and perhaps
enjoy a summer concert or one of the many
classes offered throughout the year on topics
such as gardening, photography, or yoga.
•
Have lunch nearby at one of downtown
Valparaiso’s many cafes and restaurants. Check
the Activities Guide for details.
Nature enthusiasts will want to tour Pinhook
Bog (Site 34), Indiana’s only true bog and a
unique geologic feature in the region. The bog
contains a vast array of plants with various
adaptations for survival and is a must see for
any nature lover. Open only during scheduled
open houses. Contact the National Lakeshore or
Visitor Center for additional information.
•
Stick around and, weather permitting, enjoy
dinner at one of Valparaiso’s many outdoor
dining venues.
•
Then visit Broken Wagon Bison Farm (Site
49) to see bison and buy a range of bison
products. Bring your cooler!
Take in a show or concert at the Memorial
Opera House (Site 45). The Opera House
features hip bands, new musicals, and
traditional productions in a classy, historic
setting. Check their website to see what will be
featured during your stay.
•
•
•
End your day at Forest Park and Ogden
Gardens Park (Sites 42 and 43) where you can
explore more formal gardens and restored oak
forest, watch butterflies and hummingbirds, and
perhaps picnic.
biking trail. This park also has a disc golf course
and paddle boat rentals. For the adventurous,
navigate the lakes yourself! If you have your
own small boat, you can launch nearby at Long
Lake Public Access (site 39).
•
Bring a picnic or have lunch in one of
Valparaiso’s many cafes and restaurants. Check
the Activities Guide for details.
•
If you are visiting in the spring, enjoy the
drive to Zona Wildlife Sanctuary (Site 36) for
an impressive array of spring wildflowers and a
short hiking trail.
Or
•
Sample local abundance at Anderson’s
Vineyard and Winery (Site 37), where you’ll
find wine tasting and sales, fresh produce in
season, and local jams and jellies.
Stay the night in a bed and breakfast or at one
of the many nearby hotels in Valparaiso (see
Accommodations listing on pages 58 and 59).
•
On day two, explore the lakes at RogersLakewood Park (Site 40). Enjoy swimming,
fishing, picnicking, or the two-mile hiking/
The Moraine
Region
37
7
- Beyond the -Beach
Discovery
Trail 3
The Kankakee Region
Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area/Indiana DNR
Wide Open Spaces
Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail
T
here never was anything quite like the old Kankakee marsh in northwestern
Indiana. … The superabundance of its feathered game and fur and fish was next to
unbelievable. –William Bridges, New York Zoological Society, Nov-Dec, 1935
Four glaciations took place in Indiana Dunes Country— the last glacier being the Wisconsin Glacier, which melted about
16,000 years ago. The meltwater from the ice led to the Kankakee River and its surrounding wetlands developing within
the glacier’s washout plain, which spanned hundreds of thousands of acres. A scarcely imaginable abundance of wildlife
lived in these marshes, prairies, and woodlands.
That landscape changed dramatically in the early 1900s as marshlands were drained and converted to agriculture, the
Kankakee channelized, and the prairies plowed. At several sites within the Kankakee Region, you can see impressive
remnants of this native landscape—from the Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area, where tens of thousands of Sandhill
Cranes gather during fall migration, to Kankakee Sands, where The Nature Conservancy has restored 5,000 acres of
wetlands and prairie. Many of these sites offer few visitor amenities—often little more than a parking area. This lack of
development makes these great places to see wildlife and immerse yourself in nature. While dramatic natural sites are
highlights in the Kankakee Region, you’ll also find historic sites like Dunn’s Bridge, believed to have been constructed of
steel salvaged from the world’s first Ferris Wheel exhibited in Chicago in 1893. And visitors can stop in the community of
Kouts for a heaping serving of home cooking and Midwestern hospitality.
Kankakee
Region
Beyond-theThe
Beach
Discovery
Trail 39
The annual Aukiki
River Festival in
Kouts celebrates the
rich heritage
of the Kankakee
River valley.
Site 54: Aukiki Wetland
Conservation Area
Directions: Follow State Road 49 south of
Kouts. Once you cross the Kankakee River
watch for an Aukiki sign on the left and
turn in to the gravel road. No amenities and
parking is limited.
Description: This 650-acre parcel,
donated by NiSource, conserves wetlands,
black oak barrens, and sand prairie, offering
wildlife viewing, hiking, and hunting. Now
jointly owned by The Nature Conservancy
and the Indiana Department of Natural
Resources, Aukiki is part of the Indiana
Grand Kankakee Marsh Restoration Project.
To restore the land, staff and volunteers
have thinned the forest and reintroduced
fire with prescribed burns to restore oak
barrens and prairie habitat. DNR and Ducks
Unlimited have partnered to restore wetland
areas for waterfowl along the Kankakee
River, and have converted 200 acres of
former farmland to grasses to improve
wildlife habitat. During hunting seasons,
non-hunting use is discouraged. Call
(219) 843-4841 for hunting information.
Lat: 41.2307 Long: -87.0375
State Road 49, Wheatfield, IN 46392
(219) 285-2184
Site 55: Dunn’s Bridge
County Park
Directions: From Kouts, follow State
Route 8 east for 3 miles to South 500 East
Road. Turn south (right) on 500 and travel
6.7 miles to the park entrance on your
right. There is no sign, and if you cross the
Kankakee River you have gone too far.
Description: Legend has it that this
unusual bridge was built with steel
salvaged from the 1893 World’s Columbian
Exposition in Chicago, Illinois. According
to local lore, the metal arches may have
come from the world’s first Ferris Wheel,
which debuted at that exposition. Dunn’s
Bridge was renovated in 2003 and won
a state award for the engineering work.
Spanning the Kankakee River, the bridge
is open to pedestrians. Three-acre Dunn’s
Bridge County Park offers the only public
boat access to the Kankakee River in Porter
County. It’s a great place to canoe, kayak,
watch wildlife from the riverbank, or fish
from a small motorboat.
Lat: 41.2215 Long: -86.9690
South 500 East Road, Kouts, IN 46347
(219) 465-3586, www.indianadunes.com/
parks-and-recreation/parks-and-facilities
Town of Kouts
Like many small Midwestern
farming communities, Kouts is
a town where everyone knows
everyone else and visitors don’t
remain strangers for long.
Site 56: Kankakee
Fish and Wildlife Area
Site 57: Jasper-Pulaski
Directions: From LaCrosse, follow State
Route 8 east about 8 miles to State Route
39. Turn south (right), and follow 39 about
4 miles to Toto Road and turn west (right).
Watch for the headquarters office on your
right. You may obtain a map there.
Directions: From La Crosse, follow US
Route 421 about 12.5 miles to State Route
143. Turn west (right) and travel about 1
mile to the wildlife area office to register
and pick up maps.
Description: Designated an Important
Description: This gem of a wildlife area
Bird Area by the National Audubon Society,
the 4,199-acre Kankakee Fish and Wildlife
Area is part of the Grand Kankakee Marsh
region (see sidebar, page 43). A single-lane
gravel road follows the levee along the
Yellow River and offers great wildlife
viewing. Ten Mile Road provides foot
access to the swamp and forest between
the Yellow and Kankakee rivers. Watch
for bald eagles, which have nested here for
many years. Two boat ramps access the
Kankakee River. Limited amenities, but a
great place to immerse in nature. During
hunting seasons, non-hunting use is
discouraged. Call (574) 896-3522 for
hunting information.
conserves 8,062 acres of wetland, upland,
and woodland habitat, providing an ideal
stopover for migratory birds. Beginning in
August, Sandhill Cranes, Canada
Geese, ducks, and occasionally federallyendangered Whooping Cranes gather here.
By mid-November—peak fall viewing
time—cranes number in the tens of
thousands. They also congregate in early
spring, but in less spectacular numbers. The
Marsh Observation Trail (2 miles one way)
follows a gated road into the Waterfowl
Resting Area and ends at a viewing platform
near open water. Visitors must check in at
the headquarters office. Limited amenities.
During hunting seasons, non-hunting
use is discouraged. Call (219) 843-4841 for
Lat: 41.2592 Long: -86.7816
4320 West Toto Road, North Judson, IN 46366
(574) 896-3522
www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3090.htm
Lat: 41.1394 Long: -86.9205
US Route 421, Medaryville, IN 47959
(219) 843-4841
As you enter the community of
Kouts, you pass by green and
yellow fields sprinkled with
barns and silos. A moment
later,you’re on Main Street,
where you’ll find family
restaurants with friendly service
and homestyle cooking, as well
as welcoming storefronts.
Take a break from your
explorations of the Beyond
the Beach region with a visit to
Kouts. Whether you’re dining
on locally raised pork, visiting
community homes at the annual
Kouts Christmas Open House,
or browsing wares at a garage
sale, you’ll take home a sense of
the friendliness and community
spirit of Kouts.
I
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com - The Kankakee Region 41
Without fire, there
could be no prairie
or oak savannas.
Fire is a natural part
of both forest and
grassland ecology and
kills invading brush
and small trees. It
also encourages the
growth of grasses
and forbs.
Site 58: Grand Kankakee
Marsh County Park
Site 59: LaSalle Fish
and Wildlife Area
Directions: Follow State Route 2 east of
Interstate 65 for 1.25 miles to Clay Street and
turn south (right). Travel south for 5 miles
to the west end of the park where maps and
parking are located.
Directions: From Lake Village, follow
State Route 10 west 1.5 miles to the entrance
of the headquarters office where you can
pick up a map.
Description: This 2,069-acre park,
Description: LaSalle Fish and Wildlife
located along the historic Kankakee River,
floods seasonally, providing ideal wetland
habitat for wildlife. Acquired by Lake
County Parks in 1977 with assistance from
The Nature Conservancy, Grand Kankakee
Marsh County Park’s dense woods and
remnants of old river channels are home
to a large deer herd and many species
of waterfowl. Hunting, fishing, wildlife
and bird viewing, biking, and boating on
the Kankakee River make up the bulk of
recreation activities here. The levees are
also used as equestrian trails. Since the
mid-1980s, the park has hosted the annual
Voyageur Rendezvous, a colorful living
history reenactment of the early French fur
trade era.
Lat: 41.2231 Long: -87.2757
21690 Range Line Road, Hebron, IN 46341
(219) 769-7275
www.lakecountyparks.com/grand.html
Area conserves 3,797 acres of hardwood
forests, cropland and fallow fields, marshes,
brush, and open water. Bisected by the
Kankakee River, LaSalle is an ideal stopover
for migratory birds. State Line Road and the
drive to Parking Area 3 offer excellent
roadside wildlife viewing. The footpath
that follows the levee along the south
side of the Kankakee is a quiet place to
explore and watch wildlife. Recreational
activities here include hunting, fishing,
and wildlife viewing. The site provides
boat ramps and a hunting dog training
area. Limited amenities, but a great place
to immerse yourself in nature. During
hunting seasons, non-hunting use is
discouraged. Call (219) 992-3019 for
Lat: 41.1533 Long: -87.4826
Lake Village, IN 46349, (219) 992-3019
The Grand
Kankakee Marsh
Site 60: Kankakee Sands
Efroymsom Family Prairie
Restoration
Directions: From Lake Village, follow
US Route 41 south about 6.5 miles to the
Kankakee Sands Project Office where you
can pick up a site map. No amenities and
parking is limited.
Description: Kankakee Sands is a birder’s and
wildflower enthusiast’s paradise, with more than
7,800 acres of prairie, savanna, and wetland
habitats. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has
restored some 5,000 acres of wetlands and
prairie here, providing habitat for some of the
fastest declining bird species in North America,
including Northern Bobwhite and American
Bittern. Watch, too, for the glass lizard, a legless
reptile that resembles a snake but has ear holes
and eyelids. TNC started the Kankakee Sands
Native Plant Nursery to ensure that the proper
native prairie and wetlands plants were used
to restore the area. Over 600 different native
plant species have been used in the restoration.
Explore the site along three trails, one of which
leads through the ghost town of Conrad Station.
Until the late 1800s, the
Kankakee River meandered
240 miles to cover the 75-mile
distance between South Bend
and the Illinois state line. The
river snaked through one of the
country’s largest freshwater
wetlands—500,000 acres known
as the Grand Kankakee Marsh.
At Kankakee
Sands, The Nature
Conservancy is
restoring more than
5,000 acres of
wetland and
prairie habitat.
Between 1834 and 1884, trappers
averaged 20,000-40,000 pelts
from the marsh annually, mostly
muskrat. Waterfowl visited the
wetlands in scarcely imaginable
numbers, a renowned attraction
for sportsmen.
Wanting workable cropland,
settlers in the area pushed to
convert the marshes to farm
fields. By 1917, most of the
marsh had been drained, and
the Kankakee River had been
straightened, shortened, and
deepened.
At Kankakee Sands (Site 60), you
can see large-scale efforts
to restore some of the area’s
native wetlands and prairie.
Lat: 41.0468 Long: -87.4496, 3294 North US Highway
41, Morocco, IN 47963, (219) 285-2184
www.nature.org/kankakeesands
I
The Kankakee
Region
43
3
- Beyond the- Beach
Discovery
Trail 4
The Kankakee Region Itineraries
While every Kankakee Region site is worth visiting, if you’re short on time, you’ll only
be able to visit a few. Below are recommendations for great sites to see in a day…or two.
Spend a Day
•
companion guides. Be sure to pick up the Indiana
Dunes Country Activities Guide. This guide will
provide detailed information about restaurants
and accommodations in the Dunes, Moraine, and
Kankakee regions as you explore the trail.
•
Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area (Site 57)
is well known to hunters and anglers, but nature
enthusiasts who visit in November will find it
well worth the drive. This designated Audubon
Important Bird Area provides more than 8,000
acres of ideal habitat for migratory birds. In
November, Sandhill Cranes number in the tens
of thousands – quite a spectacle! To learn
more about the migration, view this short film at
www.in.gov/dnr/slides/cranes/index.html.
•
Enjoy lunch or dinner in Kouts. Check the
Activities Guide to find the perfect spot.
Or
•
Move on to spend the afternoon paddling or
motoring the Kankakee River. There’s no livery
at Dunn’s Bridge County Park (site 55)—yet.
But for those with small boats, canoes, or
kayaks, Dunn’s boasts a historic bridge and
a nice launch for small boats and plenty of
parking right on the Kankakee.
weekend!
•
Stick around and enjoy dinner in Hebron or
at one of Valparaiso’s many downtown dining
venues. Check the Activities Guide for details.
4
•
Stay the night in a bed and breakfast or
at one of the many hotels in Valparaiso (see
Accommodations listing on pages 58 and 59).
•
The following day, explore the Grand
Kankakee Marsh County Park (Site 58) for
spring birdwatching, wildlife watching, boat
launch, fishing, hunting, and hiking.
•
Enjoy lunch in Hebron or head back to
Valparaiso. Check the Activities Guide for details.
•
Spend the afternoon fishing or strolling along
the Kankakee and bayous at LaSalle Fish and
Wildlife Area (Site 59). Shoreline fishing is
an option and three boat ramps are available.
Your catch of the day may include small or
largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill or rock bass.
Parking area and Access Road 3 offer scenic
roadside wildlife viewing!
Grand Kankakee RIver
- The
Kankakee
Region
- Beyond the
Beach
Discovery
Trail 45
Birding the Dunes
F
ew places in the Midwest rival Indiana
Dunes Country for great birding. More
than 350 bird species live or migrate through
here—drawn to the open waters of Lake Michigan
and to a landscape of beaches, dunes, woodlands,
wetlands, and prairie.
We’re perhaps best known for our spectacular
migrations, when you can witness tens of thousands
of Sandhill Cranes in a single autumn day, or tally
a hundred hawks soaring over the dunes in the
springtime, or catch a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse
of a Whooping Crane. But here in Indiana Dunes
Country, birding offers year-round discoveries.
*The Indiana Audubon Society website, www.indianaaudubon.org, provided
much of the birding information in this guide. Visit their website for more
in-depth information on birds and birding in the Indiana Dunes region.
Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
466 Beyond
4
Migration Sensation
Why do so many birds migrate through Indiana
Dunes Country? Because of Lake Michigan. This
immense body of water profoundly affects the
flight routes of migratory birds. In fall, migratory
birds that have nested in the north follow the
long shores of Lake Michigan south. They
converge at the bottom of the lake—right here in
the Indiana Dunes. Some simply stop here for a
while to rest and feed. Others—including bay and
sea duck species seldom recorded elsewhere
in the Midwest—stay here for the winter on the
open waters of the lake.
Migrating hawks and other raptors avoid flying
over large bodies of open water, since the cool
water does not create the thermal wind currents
on which the raptors glide. When they fly north
in springtime, they funnel along the edge of the
lake, rather than flying over it, so hundreds pass
over the Indiana Dunes in a single day. Though
autumn raptor migration is less dramatic, since
their arrival is more dispersed, notable numbers
of Peregrine Falcons stream through this region
in early October.
Birding Hot Spots
While you can watch birds at dozens of natural areas within the
Indiana Dunes region, a few of these sites offer truly outstanding
viewing. In this guide we’ve detailed the birding opportunities
at the region’s top twelve birding hotspots. In fact, nine of the
twelve sites are Audubon-designated Important Bird Areas
(identified as providing essential habitat for one or more species
of birds), and four of these are considered globally significant.
Each site below is a site on the Beyond the Beach Discovery
Trail. After the site name below, we list the page number on
which you’ll find the general description for the site (including
driving directions, hours of operation, phone number, etc).
Below, we offer information specific to the birding opportunities
at each site, including habitat, species highlights, and access tips.
Important Bird Area
Nine of the sites along the Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail have been designated by
the National Audubon Society as providing essential habitat for one or more species
of birds. Sites are further designated as being of state, national, or global significance.
WatchList Birds
In 2007, the American Bird Conservancy and National Audubon Society teamed up
to create the United States WatchList of Birds of Conservation Concern, identifying
species in greatest need of conservation attention.
Indiana Dunes Tourism would
like to express heartfelt thanks
to local birding experts Ken
Brock and Sandra Wilmore for
their contribution to the birding
information contained within.
Beyond the Beach
Discovery
Birding
Hotspots
- -Birding
Hotspots
- Beyond
theTrai
Beach
Discovery
Trail 4477
Site 2: Hammond
Lakefront Park and
Bird Sanctuary
(See site description on page 8)
Habitat: Neotropical songbirds hug the
shore of Lake Michigan during migration
and funnel through the Hammond Lakefront
Park and Bird Sanctuary in astonishing
numbers. That’s why birders have long
referred to this site as “The Migrant Trap.”
Though just 16 acres in size and surrounded
by industry, the park provides a critical
stopover for migrants, offering a mix of
grass, woodland, and beach habitats. It
is part of the State Line/Calumet Region
Important Bird Area.
Birds: You’ll see a host of migrating
These Dunes of ours know the birds of the four winds.
Out of the North in winter the redpolls and crossbills
drive; from the East soar with summer the prairie
warbler and the Acadian flycatcher; up from the
South on wings of leisure drift the Bewick’s wren
and titmouse; from the broad West, flying far, come
the willet and the Henslow ’s sparrow…
–Edward Ford, ornithologist, Reminiscences of Birds of the Dunes Country (1935)
4488 Beyond
Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
songbirds here in spring and fall, including
wrens, thrushes, vireos, warblers, and
sparrows. Specific species of note seen here
include Connecticut Warbler, Mourning
Warbler, Clay-colored Sparrow,
LeConte’s Sparrow, Long- and Shorteared owls (rare), and Eared Grebe.
Site 4: Miller Woods
Habitat: This nearly 800-acre Important
Bird Area features black oak savanna, a
fire-dependent mosaic of oaks and prairie
habitat now uncommon in the region. The
site also includes interdunal ponds, marsh,
high dunes, and lagoons. Because of its
location at the extreme southern tip of Lake
Michigan, as well as the lack of habitat in
surrounding industrial sites, Miller Woods
draws great concentrations of migratory
birds funneling along the edge of Lake
Michigan, especially in autumn.
Birds: Many neotropical species stop here
during migration, including such WatchList
species as Wood Thrush, Golden-winged
Warbler, and Canada Warbler.
Habitat: Part of an Important Bird Area,
Marquette Park is considered one of the
most critical sites for migrating waterfowl,
shorebirds, and waterbirds in Indiana.
Migratory birds flying primarily from the
west side of Lake Michigan funnel through
this site, which provides open water, beach,
and oak woodland habitat.
Birds: Three kinds of jaegars stop here—
Parasitic, Pomarine, and Long-tailed—
making it one of the best jaegar-viewing
sites in the Midwest. In autumn, all four
expected tern species (see bird list), plus
an occasional rare tern, congregate here.
Diving ducks and loons gather by the
thousands offshore. WatchList shorebirds
like Piping Plover, Red Knot, Hudsonian
Godwit, and Buff-breasted Sandpiper
migrate through here as well.
Site 6: West Beach
Habitat: The West Beach Important
Bird Area includes nearby Inland Marsh
and Long Lake, encompassing 1,500 acres
of deep water, beach, dunes, woodlands
(including an uncommon jack pine forest),
savanna, emergent marsh, panne (interdunal
pond fed by groundwater), and lake habitat.
Birds: Though you can see a variety of
birds year round at West Beach, fall and
winter provide some of the best viewing.
Indiana Audubon describes West Beach
as “typically the only location in the state”
to see Long-eared Owl, Red Crossbill,
and Common Redpoll on a late fall or
winter’s day. Watch for large congregations
of Redbreasted Merganser and Common
Loon, as well as less common waterbirds
like Red-throated Loon and Western
Grebe. Many raptors migrate through here
as well, including Bald Eagle, Northern
Harrier, Sharp-shinned and Redshouldered hawks, and Peregrine Falcon.
Site 9: Port of Indiana
Habitat: The highly industrial nature
of this site provides a totally unique,
non-traditional birding experience. The
breakwalls and other structures around the
harbor make a good resting spot for birds.
In winter, the port provides one of the most
reliable locations in the region for viewing
bay ducks, which are drawn to the port’s
deep waters. Twelve steel processors form
the backdrop to the birding experience
Birding Ethics
1. Respect wildlife homes—leave
nests and their occupants as you
found them.
2. In no-hunt areas, blend in with
your surroundings—wear neutralcolored clothing and move slowly
and quietly.
3. Avoid the use of recordings,
calls, or whistles to attract birds,
as they can disrupt the birds’
normal feeding, mating, and
brood-rearing activities.
4. View birds from a distance to
avoid disturbing them.
5. Stay on trails and respect
private property.
6. Share your lunch only with
other humans.
7. If possible, leave pets at home.
at this site. Due to high security,
photography is prohibited.
Birds: Spring, fall, and winter offer the best
viewing at the port. Birders note particularly
good sightings here on windy days during
fall migration, when waterfowl stream over
the port’s public access area. Watch for
White-winged, Black, and Surf scoters
in autumn. In winter, you’ll usually see bay
- Beyond the Beach
Discovery
Trail 49
- Birding
Hotspots
ducks as long as open water is available.
Watch for Harlequin Ducks near the outer
breakwalls. Birders consider the port one
of the best sites in the region to see Great
Black-backed Gulls in winter. Watch for
them on the breakwalls, where Snowy
Owls have also been seen in winter.
Weather Watch
Migrating birds tend to fly
during fair weather, especially
when they have a good wind
helping them along. In autumn,
you’ll often see especially high
numbers of migrating songbirds
and water birds during or
immediately following the
passage of a cold front through
the Indiana Dunes region. In
spring, you’ll tend to see the
most migrating raptors on days
with a strong southerly wind.
Site 17: Cowles Bog
Habitat: Considered a globally significant
Important Bird Area, Cowles Bog is actually
a fen, not a true bog (which has no inflow or
outflow of water, other than precipitation).
The fen itself is off limits to the public,
but trails traverse several uncommon
habitats, including tamarack and white pine
woodlands, black oak savanna, interdunal
wetlands, red maple and yellow birch
lowland forest, and a pristine beach on
Lake Michigan.
Birds: The site supports several
nesting wetland birds that are species of
conservation concern in Indiana, including
American Bittern, Sandhill Crane, Little
Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night
Heron, Virginia Rail, American Black
Duck, and a significant population of Marsh
Wren. Other uncommon species seen
here include Whip-poor-will, American
Woodcock, Solitary Sandpiper, Sedge
Wren, and Rusty Blackbird. Be sure to
allow time to hike the trails, which will lead
you through several distinct habitats.
State Park
Habitat: More than 2,000 acres of lake,
beach, foredunes, dune forests, swamps,
prairie, and savanna habitat make up
this Important Bird Area. Of the park’s
16.5 miles of trails, trails #2 and #10 are
birding favorites. Trail #2 circles the Great
Marsh on a mile-long boardwalk. Trail
#10 traverses dune, beach, woodland, and
savanna habitats. The bird observation area
near the west parking lot offers good views
of migrating birds.
Birds: On Trail #2, watch for such
woodland birds as Hooded Warbler,
Veery, and Red-shouldered Hawk (a
pair has nested here in the past near the
Wilson Shelter). The park attracts breeding
birds more commonly found farther south
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5500 Beyond
(including WatchList species Prairie
Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush), as
well as more northerly species (Canada and
Blackburnian warblers). Migration
sightings include such WatchList species
as Kirtland’s, Golden-winged, and
Bay-breasted warblers. The west lot
observation area is known for several
state record species counts in the spring,
including Blue Jays, Scarlet Tanagers, and
Baltimore Orioles.
Site 26: Beverly
Shores Area
(Access from Lake View Picnic Area.
See site description on page 19.)
Habitat: Located on the shore of Lake
Michigan, this Important Bird Area includes
both open water and beach habitat, but
its most unique draw is its rare interdunal
marsh. Interdunal marsh occurs between old
dune crests - formed before the last glacial
recession of Lake Michigan - and the current
lakeside dune crests.
Birds: Several state-endangered species
nest in the interdunal marsh, including King
Rail, Virginia Rail, Common Moorhen,
and American Bittern. Other uncommon
nesting species seen here include Willow
and Alder flycatchers, Marsh Wren,
Prairie Warbler, and Prothonotary
Warbler. On the open water, watch for
migrating loons, grebes, diving ducks,
jaegers, and gulls. Birders consider this
among the best lakefront locations for seeing
Northern Shrike in winter and know it as
“Shrike alley.”
Access Tip: Park in Lake View Picnic Area
to bird the open water and beach. Bike or
bird from your vehicle along Beverly Drive
(particularly the west end), which bisects the
interdunal habitat. Please observe no-parking
rules on public roadways and respect private
property boundaries.
Site 51: Taltree
Arboretum and Gardens
Habitat: The stewards of this 360-acre
site have conserved and restored a mix
of native habitats, including oak-hickory
woodlands, savanna, wetlands, and prairie.
Birds: Taltree is one of the best sites in the
area to view sparrows, including Savannah,
Song, Grasshopper, Henslow’s, Vesper,
and Field sparrows. In the prairie area,
watch and listen for nesting Bobolink,
Eastern Bluebird, and Cooper’s Hawk.
Watch for Yellow-billed and Blackbilled cuckoos in the wetlands area. The
savanna area often yields Whip-poor-will,
American Woodcock, owls, and many
warbler species. Exciting sightings include
Golden Eagle.
Site 56: Kankakee Fish
and Wildlife Area
Habitat: Over 4,000 acres of riparian
woodlands, wetlands, marsh, and farmland
surround roughly six miles of the Kankakee
River within this globally significant
Important Bird Area. Though the river was
channelized and much of the surrounding
wetlands drained for farming in the late
1800s, managers have worked to restore
native habitat here.
Birds: This diverse site supports breeding
birds typically found farther south (like
Acadian Flycatcher, and Yellowthroated
and Prothonotary warblers), as well as
birds typical of northern locales (Rosebreasted Grosbeak, American Redstart,
and Chestnut-sided Warbler). Watch
for migrant ducks and shorebirds along
Ten Mile Road in spring, and even nesting
Bald Eagles. Sightings here include
Sora, Wilson’s Phalarope, American
Golden-plover, Pectoral Sandpiper, and
Whooping Crane.
Access Tip: One-way Ten Mile Road
starts at the north entrance and follows
the Kankakee River, offering great
birding along its length. It may be closed
in spring if flooding is severe. Best birding
between January and July, as autumn is
hunting season.
Site 57: Jasper-Pulaski
Habitat: 8,062-acre Jasper-Pulaski
forms the core of a globally significant
Important Bird Area that covers some
30,000 acres. This state fish and wildlife
area encompasses a mix of wetlands, fields,
oak flats, and savanna.
Birds: Jasper-Pulaski is renowned
in the Midwest for its spectacular fall
congregations of Sandhill Cranes. Birders
can tally more than 20,000 cranes on
a single late-November day. Critically
endangered Whooping Cranes have also
stopped at this site during fall migration in
recent years. While cranes are obviously
the biggest draw, the site’s diverse habitats
attract many other birds, including
WatchList species like the Red-headed
Woodpecker.
Access Tip: An observation tower provide
good views of cranes in autumn. Visitors
must check in at the headquarters office.
Site 60:
Kankakee Sands
Habitat: Owned and managed by The
Nature Conservancy (TNC), 7,209-acre
Kankakee Sands forms the core of the
globally significant Kankakee Sands
Important Bird Area. TNC is working to
restore the native mosaic of marsh wetlands
and prairie here. This includes wet sand
prairie, a globally significant natural
community.
Birds: Many grassland species nest here,
including Henslow’s and Grasshopper
sparrows, Dickcissel, Bobolink, and
Eastern Meadowlark. Springtime flooding
draws migratory shorebirds, including
American Golden-plover and Marbled
Godwit. Sightings include Wilson’s
Phalarope, Upland Sandpiper, King Rail,
and American Bittern.
Access Tip: Site maps available at the
Kankakee Sands Project office at 3294
North US 41.
- Beyond the Beach
Discovery
Trail 51
- Birding
Hotspots
Seasonal Abundance Codes:
A = Abundant: Often observed and widespread throughout county
C = Common: Frequent in appropriate habitat
U = Uncommon: Infrequent in appropriate habitat
R = Rare: Unlikely, but possible in county
Habitat Types
B-BEACH: Lake Michigan beach.
D-DUNES: Sand dunes located immediately inland of Lake Michigan beaches.
F-FIELD: Cultivated and roadside field, open area, and/or prairie.
FL-FLIGHT: Observed in flight.
L-LAKE: Lake Michigan.
M-MARSH: Wetland with predominantly grassy (non-woody) vegetation.
P-POND: Permanent body of water, including small lakes, ponds, and wetlands.
S-SWAMP: Wetland with more trees and shrubs than a marsh.
U-URBAN: Urban area.
W-WOODS: Treed area.
WE-WOODED EDGES: The interface between woods and another habitat.
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
* State endangered
Spring
Birding Checklist
Loon & Grebes
Red-Throated Loon
URU U L
Common Loon
CRC R L
Pied-billed Grebe
CCC RM,P
Horned Grebe
U
C
R
L,H
Cormorants
Double-crested Cormorant CUC R L
Bitterns & Herons
American Bittern*
UUU RM
Least Bittern*
RRR M
Great Blue Heron
A
A
A
R
M,P
Great Egret
CUC RM
Green Heron
CCCM,P
Black-crowned* Night Heron
U
U
U
M
Yellow-crowned* Night HeronUUU M
Swans, Geese & Ducks
Mute Swan
CCC CL,P
Tundra Swan
UURL
Canada Goose
AAA A
L,M,P
Wood Duck
A
A
C
R
P,S
Green-winged Teal
C
R
U
R
M,P
Black Duck
CRC UL,M
Mallard
AAA C
L,P,M
Northern Pintail
URU RM,P
Blue-winged Teal
CUC RM,P
Northern Shoveler
C
R
U
R
M,P
Gadwall
CRC RM,P
American Wigeon
CRC RM,P
Canvasback
U R R U M,P
Redhead
C R U R L,P
Ring-necked Duck
CRC RM,P
Greater Scaup
URU UL,P
Lesser Scaup
CRC UL,P
Black Scoter
R
R
U
R
L
White-winged Scoter
R
R
U
R
L
Common Goldeneye
CRC A L
Bufflehead
CRC A L
Hooded Merganser
URU R L
Common Merganser
URU C L
Red-breasted Merganser
CRC UL,P
Ruddy Duck
C
R
U
R
L,P
Vultures
Turkey Vulture
A
A
C
R
FL
Eagles & Hawks
Bald Eagle*
Northern Harrier*
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk
522 Beyond
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U
R
R
R
FL
URU R F
CCC C
WE,W
CCC C
WE,W
Northern Goshawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Rough-legged Hawk
RRR RW
URU RWE
UUU UW
CCC C
F,WE
U
U
U
U
F,M
Osprey & Falcons
Osprey*
URU R L
American Kestrel
CCC C F
Peregrine Falcon*
CCC CFL
Quail, Pheasant, Turkey
Northern Bobwhite
RRR R
F,WE
Ring-necked Pheasant
UUU U F
Wild Turkey
UUU UF,W
Rails & Coots
Virginia Rail*
Sora Rail
Common Moorhen
American Coot
UUU UM
C
U
U
M
RRR M
AAA U
M,P,L
Crane
Sandhill Crane (Jasper-Pulaski Site)
CUC UF,M
Plovers
Black-bellied Plover
American Golden Plover
Semipalmated Plover
Piping Plover*
Killdeer
U
R
U
B,P
C
R
U
B,P
U
R
U
B,P
RRR B
A A C R M,D,F
Sandpipers & other
Shorebirds
GreaterYellowlegs
U R R M,P
Lesser Yellowlegs
UUUM,P
Solitary Sandpiper
C
U
U
M
Spotted Sandpiper
C
C
U
M,S
Semipalmated Sandpiper
U
R
C
B,P
Least Sandpiper
UUUB,P
Pectoral Sandpiper
C
R
U
M,P
Baird’s Sandpiper
R
U
B
Ruddy Tumstone
URU B
Sanderling
R C C B
Dunlin
URUB,P
Red Knot
RR B
Purple Sandpiper
RR B
Short-billed Dowitcher
RRR P
Red Phalarope
U
L,B
Common Snipe
URU RM,P
American Woodcock
CCC RS,W
Jaegers
Parasitic Yaeger
Pomarine Yeager
U
R
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
* State endangered
Spring
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
Spring
* State endangered
Gulls Little Gull
R
R
U
R
L
Bonaparte’s Gull
CRC UL,B
Laughing Gull
U
R
R
R
L
Ring-billed Gull
ACA CL,B
Herring Gull
AUA AL,B
Thayer’s Gull
RRU
L,B
Iceland Gull
U
R
R
L
Glaucous Gull
RRU
L,B
Great Black-backed Gull
U
R
U
U
L
Sabine’s Gull
U
R
L
Black-legged Kittiwake
R
R
U
R
L
Terns
Caspian Tern
C
U
R
R
L,B
Common Tern
C
R
U
L,B
Forster’s Tern
URUL,B
Black Tern*
RURM,B
Doves
Rock Dove
CCC C U
Mourning Dove
AAA AF,W
Cuckoos
Black-billed Cuckoo
UUUWE
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
UUUWE
Owls
Short-eared Owl
RRR UF,M
Great Horned Owl
C
C
C
C
W
Snowy Owl
R
R
B
Barred Owl
CCC C S
Northern Saw-whet Owl
R
R
R
RW
Eastern Screech Owl
C
C
C
C
W
Goatsuckers
Common Nighthawk
Whip-poor-will
UUUWE,F
C U U W
Swifts
Chimney Swift
AAA U
Hummingbirds
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
C
C
C
F,WE
Kingfishers
Belted Kingfisher
CCC RM,P
Woodpeckers
Red-headed Woodpecker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
CCC CW
CCC CW
C
R
U
R
W
CCC C
W,WE
UUU UW
L,B
L,B
Beyond the Beach- Discovery
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Checklist
Beyond theTrai
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Discovery
Trail 53
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
* State endangered
Spring
Northern Flicker
Pileated Woodpecker
CCC UW
UUU UW
Flycatchers
Olive-sided Flycatcher
Eastern Wood Pewee
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher
Acadian Flycatcher
Alder Flycatcher
Willow Flycatcher
Least Flycatcher
Eastern Phoebe
Great-crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
URU S
C
C
C
W
U
R
R
W
C
C
R
W
UUU M
C
U
R
M
CRC
W,WE
C
C
U
F,W,WE
C
C
U
W
C
C
U
F,M
Larks
Horned Lark
C
U
U
F
Swallows
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Rough-winged Swallow
Bank Swallow
Cliff Swallow
Barn Swallow
CCCF,P
CACF,M
UUUF,M
CCCB,D
RRR F
CAC F
Jays & Crows
Blue Jay
American Crow
AAA A
W,WE
AAA AALL
Titmice
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
CCC CW
CCC CW
Nuthatches
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatch
URU UW
CCC CW
Creepers
Brown Creeper
CRC UW
Wrens
Carolina Wren
UUU U
WE,U
House Wren
CCCWE,U
Winter Wren
URU RW
Marsh Wren*
UUU M
Sedge Wren*
U
R
R
F,M
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544 Beyond
5
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
* State endangered
Spring
Birder’s Checklist (continued)
Old World Warblers,
Thrushes & Allies
Golden-crowned Kinglet
CRC RW
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
CRC RW
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
C
U
R
W
Eastern Bluebird
CCC U
F,WE
Veery
UUU W
Gray-cheeked Thrush
UUW
Swainson’s Thrush
U
C
W
Hermit Thrush
CCRW
Wood Thrush
UUU RW
American Robin
AAA UF,W
Thrashers
Gray Catbird
CCC RWE
Northern Mockingbird
UUU R
F,WE
Brown Thrasher
CCC RWE
Waxwings
Cedar Waxwing
CUC U
W,M
Starlings
European Starling
AAA AALL
Vireos
White-eyed Vireo
URU W
Solitary Vireo
URU W
Yellow-throated Vireo
C
U
U
W
Warbling Vireo
C
C
U
WE,P
Philadelphia Vireo
URU W
Red-eyed Vireo
CCC W
Warblers
Blue-winged Warbler
C
U
U
WE
Golden-winged Warbler* RRRWE
Tennessee Warbler
CRC W
Nashville Warbler
CRC W
Northern Parula Warbler U
R
R
W
Orange-crowned Warble
URU W
Yellow Warbler
C
C
R
WE,M
Chestnut-sided Warbler
C
R
U
W,WE
Magnolia Warbler
CRC W
Cape May Warbler
C
R
C
W
Yellow-rumped Warbler
CRCW,M
Black-throated Green WarblerCRC W
Blackburnian Warbler
CRC W
Prairie Warbler
U
U
R
D
Palm Warbler
CRCWE,M
Bay-breasted Warbler
CRC W
Blackpoll Warbler
CRC W
Cerulean Warbler
C
C
R
W
Black and White Warbler
C
R
C
W
American Redstart
CUC W
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Louisiana Waterthrush
Mourning Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Hooded Warbler
Wilson’s Warbler
Canada Warbler
Yellow-breasted Chat
C C U W
URUWE,M
URU S
RRRWE
CCC M
U
R
R
S
CRC W
CRC W
U
R
R
M,WE
Common Redpoll
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
Evening Grosbeak
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
Spring
Habitat
Winter
Fall
Summer
Spring
* State endangered
RRU
WE
RRU
WE
AAA A
F,WE,U
RRR
WE
Old World Sparrows
House Sparrow
AAA AU
Tanagers
Summer Tanager
UUU W
Scarlet Tanager
C
C
U
W
Cardinals & Buntings
Northern Cardinal
AAA A
F,WE
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
CCC W
Indigo Bunting
CCCF,WE
Dickcissel
UUU F
Sparrows
Eastern Towhee
CCC RWE
Tree Sparrow
CCA
F,WE
Chipping Sparrow
CCC
F,WE,D
Field Sparrow
CCC U
F,D,M
Vesper Sparrow
UUUF,D
Sananna Sparrow
UUUF,D
Grasshopper Sparrow
UUU F
Fox Sparrow
CCR
WE
Song Sparrow
CCC U
M,WE
Lincoln’s Sparrow
UUW
Swamp Sparrow
CCC UM,S
White-throated Sparrow
CCR
WE
White-crowned Sparrow
CCR
WE
Dark-eyed Junco
CCA
WE
Lapland Longspur
RRRB
Snow Bunting
R
U
U
F,B
Blackbirds & Orioles
Bobolink
C C R F
Red-winged Blackbird
AAA U
F,M,S
Eastern Meadowlark
CCC F
Western Meadowlark
RRR F
Yellow-headed Blackbird* RRR M
Rusty Blackbird
URU R S
Common Grackle
CCC UM,F
Brown-headed Cowbird
CCC U
W,WE
Baltimore Oriole
C
C
U
W,WE
Orchard Oriole
UUUW,WE
Finches
Purple Finch
UUU UW
House Finch
AAA AU
Beyond the Beach- Beyond
Discovery
- Birding
Checklist
55
5
theTrai
Beach
Discovery
Trail 5
Blueways
F
rom the time humans first came to Northwest Indiana more than 8,000 years ago,
people have paddled this region’s lakes and rivers. With careful planning, proper
equipment, safety awareness, and the list of access points below, you can explore the historic,
beautiful, and ecologically rich blueways of the Beyond the Beach region.
What are Blueways?
Blueways are creeks, rivers, or lakeshores with several places where a paddler can put in or take out a canoe or kayak. Many of the access points listed
below are part of our two main blueways here in Northwest Indiana—the Lake Michigan Water Trail and the Kankakee River Water Trail.
For paddling maps and information, visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (Site 1).
Water body: Lake Michigan
Description: Very dependent upon current lake
conditions. Intermediate paddlers can launch
at Marquette Park and paddle approximately 3
miles east to West Beach (Site 6) or 4.7 miles
east to Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (Site
8). Lagoons provide a quiet paddle and are
accessible at the Marquette Park Pavilion.
Site 6: West Beach Dune
Succession Trail
Description: Very dependent upon current
lake conditions. Intermediate paddlers can
paddle approximately 3 miles west to Marquette
Park (Site 5), or paddle 1.7 miles east to Portage
Lakefront and Riverwalk (Site 8)
Site 8: Portage Lakefront
and Riverwalk
Description: Very dependent upon current lake
conditions. Intermediate paddlers can launch
here and paddle 4.7 miles west to Marquette
Park (Site 5). Advanced paddlers can paddle
approximately 7 miles east to Porter Beach Area
(Site 18) or Indiana Dunes State Park (Site 19).
Canoes can also launch and paddle inland on
Burns Waterway.
Site 18: Porter Beach Area
lake conditions. Advanced paddlers can
paddle 6.7 miles west to Portage Lakefront
and Riverwalk (Site 8). Intermediate paddlers
can paddle approximately 4 miles east to Lake
View Picnic Area.
5566 Beyond
Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
State Park
lake conditions. Advanced paddlers can paddle
approximately 7 miles west to Portage Lakefront
and Riverwalk (Site 8). Intermediate paddlers
can paddle approximately 4 miles east to Lake
View Picnic Area (Site 26). Park entry fee.
Access Tip: Launch boats from the designated
kayak launch area on the west side of the
park. There are kayaks only buoys marking the
spot. Kayaks should stay clear of the designated
swim areas.
Site 26: Lake View
Picnic Area
lake conditions.
Access Tip: Public parking is somewhat
limited. Kayak lockers may be available for
overnight camping at the nearby Indiana Dunes
National Lakeshore campground.
General Paddling Safety
Indiana Dunes Tourism would like to
express heartfelt thanks to the Northwest
Indiana Paddling Association and
Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning
Commission for their contribution to the
paddling information below.
Site 39: Long Lake
Public Access
Water body: Long Lake
Description: Easy paddling on Long Lake,
with access to Canada Lake.
Access Tip: This small public access area
offers a concrete boat launch.
Site 40: RogersLakewood Park
Water body: Small lakes with calm water
(Loomis Lake, Spectacle Lake)
Description: Easy paddling on small lakes.
Site 55: Dunn’s Bridge
County Park
Water body: Kankakee River
Description: Dependent upon water levels,
the Kankakee River is a relatively easy paddle
with generally a slow current. Paddlers can
launch here and paddle 18.6 miles to Grand
Kankakee Marsh County Park.
Access Tip: Drop kayaks/canoes off at Dunn’s
Bridge and park your vehicle by the park
entrance near the north end of the park.
• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved
life jacket.
• Obtain the knowledge, skills, and ability
necessary for your paddle sport.
• Paddle with a group. Three participants is a
recommended minimum.
• Know how to self rescue.
• File a float plan with friends and family.
• Bring appropriate safety, rescue and navigational
aids, as well as extra protective clothing and
more than adequate food and water.
• Pick an activity level that matches your ability.
Site 56: Kankakee Fish
and Wildlife Area
with generally a slow current. Paddlers can
launch here and paddle 11.4 miles downstream
to Dunn’s Bridge.
Access Tip: Launch adjacent to Route 8 bridge
at east end of Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area.
No facilities.
Site 59: LaSalle Fish and
Wildlife Area
with generally a slow current. Launch at the
east end of the property for great wildlife
viewing through the fish and wildlife area.
Access Tip: LaSalle offers 4 boat launches.
Easternmost launch is a quarter-mile
downstream from the bridge where State Route
41 crosses the river. White Oak access is on the
south bank of the river approximately one mile
west of State Route 41.
Paddling Lake Michigan
The Lake Michigan Water Trail currently covers
more than 75 miles of paddling along the south
shore of Lake Michigan, from Chicago across the
entire coast of Indiana to New Buffalo, Michigan.
Paddlers, planners and access site owners from the
four states bordering the lake are working together
to develop what will be the longest, continuous loop
of freshwater sea kayaking in the world.
Safety on Lake Michigan
• Be visible—wear bright colors so others can
see you between waves or in the fog.
• Carry a bright light, flares, and whistle to
signal your position.
• Take a boating safety class offered by the
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Paddling the Kankakee
The Kankakee River Water Trail provides 85 miles
of paddling on a historic, undammed river flowing
through several state and county parks. Like the
Lake Michigan Water Trail, this blueway is still under
development and will cover even more river miles in
the future.
Safety on the Kankakee
• Tree falls and logjams can clog bridges with
few portage opportunities. Call the Kankakee
River Basin Commission (219-763-0696) for a
status report on known logjams.
• Do not attempt to paddle the river at, or near,
flood stage.
• The river flows through many hunting preserves.
Contact any preserves along your proposed route
for information about hunting seasons.
• Know your location as accurately as possible,
and always carry a cell phone.
• There are few support services and facilities, such
as washrooms, fresh water, and designated
portages along the routes. Additional services are
planned for the future.
Beyond the- Beach
- Blueways
57
7
BeyondDiscovery
the BeachTrail
Discovery
Trail 5
OP
FB
Y
n
Best Western Indian Oak
$$$
62
IP
FB
Y
N
3651 West Dunes Highway
Michigan City (Pines)
219-872-8656
blackhawkmotel.webs.com
Chesterton Motel
$$
20
Comfort Inn & Suites
$$$
70
DunesWalk Inn
$$$
5
$
78
1491 North Furnleigh Lane
Chesterton, 219-728-6393
duneswalkinn.com
Dunewood Campground
(National Park Service), US 12
& Broadway, Beverly Shores
219-395-1882, nps.gov/indu
Econo Lodge
713 Plaza Drive, Chesterton
219-929-4416, choicehotels.com
Gray Goose Inn
350 Indian Boundary Road
Chesterton
219-926-5781, 800-521-5127
graygooseinn.com
Hilton Garden Inn
2
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
PN
Y
High Speed Internet (Y)
$$$
Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB)
Riley’s Railhouse
Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP)
7
Y
1199 North 650 E., Westville
219-983-9922
inspirationwood.com
Y
FB
op
N
Y
Sandcreek Campground
$
150 OP
1000 North 350 E.
sandcreekcampground.com
49
1800 W. US 20, Porter
219-787-1400, comfortinn.com
$$$
P
123 North 4th Street
rileysrailhouse.com
$
418 Council Drive, Chesterton
219-929-5549
Inspiration Wood
Accessible (Y)
3
Blackhawk Motel
140
Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N)
$$$
indianoak.com
$
Indiana Dunes State
Park Campground
IN-49 North of US 12
Chesterton, (866) 622-6746
camp.in.gov
At Home in the Woods
898 North 350 E.
athomeinthewoodsbb.com
# Rooms/Campsites
N
$-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+
Y
Accessible (Y)
OP
16
$$
3221 West Dunes Highway
Michigan City (Pines)
219-872-9131
alandsallysmotelinc.com
Al and Sally’s Motel
# Rooms/Campsites
Duneland
Communities
$-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+
Accommodations
IP
CB
Y
Y
CB
Y
N
Y
Y
N
Y
P
Y
Spring House Inn
$$$
50
IP
CB
Y
N
Y
Waterbird
Lakeside Inn & Spa
$$$
22
IP
cb
Y
N
Y
$
75
OP
P
Y
303 North Mineral Springs
Road, Porter, 219-929-4600
springhouseinn.com
waterbirdinn.com
Kouts
Donna Jo Campground
$$
41
$$$
8
$$$ 120
OP
IP
CB
Y
P
FB
Y
PN
CB
Y
N
Y
1255 South 350 E. Kouts
219-766-2186,
donnajocampground.com
Key
Y
501 Gateway Boulevard
chesterton.hgi.com
Bed & Breakfast
Hotels/Motels
Campgrounds Cottages
Country Inn & Suites Portage
1630 Olmsted Drive
Portage 219-764-0021
countryinns.com/portagein
Days Inn
6161 Melton Road (US 20)
Portage, 219-762-2136
daysinn.com
Dollar Inn
6140 Melton Road (US 20)
Portage, 219-763-6601
Hampton Inn
6353 Melton Rd. (US 20)
Portage, 219-764-1919
hamptoninn.com
Holiday Inn Express
2323 Willowcreek Road
Portage, 219-762-7777
hieportage.com
Super 8 Motel
6118 Melton Road, Portage
219-762-8857, super8.com
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp Resort
5520 Old Porter Road, Portage
(800) 558-2954 #128
campjellystone-portage.com
$$$
52
CB
$$$ 100 IP
$$
119
CB
ip
Y
Y
Y
p
n
N
Y
Y
Y
Accessible (Y)
2300 Willowcreek Road
Portage 219-763-7177
choicehotels.com
Comfort Inn
6200 Melton Road, Portage
219-734-6727, bestwestern.com
Country Inn & Suites
Valparaiso
$$$
59
iP
cB
Y
N
Y
Courtyard by Marriott
$$$ 111 op
fB
Y
PN
Y
Valparaiso
2020 LaPorte Avenue
Valparaiso, 219-476-0000
countryinns.com/valpoin
2301 East Morthland Drive
courtyard.com/vrpcy
IP
Fairfield Inn & Suites
$$$
63
IP
CB
Y
N
Y
Hampton Inn & Suites
$$$
77
ip
fb
Y
n
Y
Holiday Inn Express
Hotel & Suites
$$$
85
iP
cB
Y
PN
Y
Inn at Aberdeen
$$$
11
OP
fB
Y
PN
Y
Pikk’s Tavern
$$$
2
BRUNCH
Y
N
$-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+
Y
# Rooms/Campsites
cb
Accessible (Y)
# Rooms/Campsites
100 IP
$$
Best Western
Portage Hotel & Suites
$-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+
Portage
Y
Songbird Prairie
$$$
5
FB
y
n
Y
$$
58
CB
Y
N
Y
2101 East Morthland Drive
fairfieldinn.com/vrpfi
1451 Silhavy Road, Valparaiso
219-531-6424, hamptoninn.com
$
50
$$$
60
$$
$$
$
76
IP
ip
65
926 op
CB
CB
cb
Y
Y
Y
P
Y
N
Y
PN
Y
PN
Y
p
Y
1251 Silhavy Road, Valparaiso
219-464-9395, (888) 897-0084,
hiexpress.com
3158 South State Road 2
innataberdeen.com
(B&B rooms above)
62 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso,
219-476-7455, pikkstavern.com
174 North 600 W. Valparaiso
219-759-4274, 877-songbrd
songbirdprairie.com
Super 8 Motel
IP
3005 John Howell Drive
super8.com
Beyond the Beach Discovery
TrailBeach
- Accommodations
- Beyond the
Discovery Trail 59
600 Beyond
6
Beyondthe
theBeach
BeachDiscovery
DiscoveryTrail
Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail Map 61
Online Resources for Visitors
S
everal great on-line resources give visitors up-to-date, interactive information about
the Beyond the Beach region. View maps and itineraries, search for sites that match
your interests, read about the latest wildlife sightings or post your own discoveries.
Website
Trail Guide & Map
www.indianadunes.com/destination-guides
Our website offers all you need to plan your
visit. You’ll find an interactive map and
detailed descriptions of 60 sites, a search
feature that helps you select sites that match
your interests, itineraries, and more. Mobile
users can enjoy our fully-functional mobile site.
Prefer to have a hard copy of the trail guide?
Order your copy that includes a pullout
map through Indiana Dunes Tourism.
Blog
www.indianadunes.com/
beyond-the-beach/blog/
Which sites are hot right now for birding
and wildflower viewing in the Beyond the
Beach region? Subscribe to the blog to find
up-to-date information, including events
and other news.
Facebook
or www.btbfb.com
Follow or join a conversation among
visitors to the Beyond the Beach region.
Read about favorite places, get tips on
inns and restaurants, and more about our
Facebook fan page.
2 Beyond
6
Beyond the
the Beach
Beach Discovery
Discovery Trail
Twitter
twitter.com/discoverbtb
Just saw a Karner blue butterfly during your
visit to the Beyond the Beach region? Let
other visitors know with a “tweet” from your
phone. With Twitter, you can follow as well
as report wildlife sightings and any other
discoveries you make along the way. Just be
sure to add the hash tag - #discoverbtb - to
your tweet so others can find all the tweets
relating to the Discovery Trail.
T he dunes are to the Midwest what the Grand Canyon is to
Arizona…. They constitute a signature of time and eternity.
–Carl Sandburg
www.indianabeyondthebeach.com - Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail 63
Dunes Water
PMS:
CMYK:
RGB:
HEX:
3145
100/33/36/5
0/122/148
007a94
Dunes Sand
Beyond the Beach
Discovery Trail
PMS:
CMYK:
RGB:
HEX:
403
44/40/46/5
146/139/130
938b82
Dunes Grass
PMS:
CMYK:
RGB:
HEX:
5535
81/55/68/59
31/55/49
1f3731
To learn more about the adventures awaiting you
along the Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail, visit
www.BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com. Visit
www.indianadunes.com/beyond-the-beach/blog for
additional photos and latest news about the Trail.
Indiana Dunes Tourism
1215 North State Road 49, Porter, Indiana 46304
1 (800) 283-8687
www.IndianaDunes.com
c Indiana Dunes Tourism, the official agency for tourism marketing, planning and development in Porter County, Indiana.