One Hour Excursions

Ranger Recommendations

Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park's 15,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

• Only have time for a quick drive? Don't miss Mt. Baldy, the tallest moving sand dune in the national park. You can see it from the parking lot.
• Interested in History? Check out the Bailly Homestead, Century of Progress Homes, or the Chellberg Farm.
• Want to watch the sunset? Be sure to check out Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk.
• Have kids? Get them involved and Become a Jr. Ranger.

The following list showcases some other must-see destinations in the park. Whether you have an hour, a half day, or a full day, the beaches, dunes, and trails of the Indiana Dunes National Park offer relaxation, inspiration, and fun adventures.

Details

Duration

1-4 Hours

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Whether you have an hour, a half day, or a full day, the beaches, dunes, and trails of Indiana Dunes offer relaxation, inspiration, and fun adventures. This list highlights some of the must-see destinations in the park. Most of these items can be accessed in less than an hour.

Pets Allowed

Yes

For details about pets in the park, including our B.A.R.K. Ranger program, see our Pets Page.

Activity Fee

Yes

7-Day Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle Pass - $20.00
Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase)

7-Day Park Entrance Pass - Family-Size Vehicle Pass - $25.00
Per private family-sized vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase).

7-Day Per Person Entrance Pass (Organized, non-commercial groups) - $15.00
Visitors 16 years of age or older who enter on foot, bicycle, boat, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.

Commercial Tour Fee - Sedan (1-6 persons) - $25.00
Entry for commercial sedans with 6 or less people. Cost is $25.00 plus $15 per person (not to exceed next highest rate).

Commercial Tour Fee - Van (7-15 persons) - $40.00
Entry for commercial vans with 7-15 people.

Commercial Tour Fee - Mini Bus (16-25 persons) - $40.00
Entry for commercial mini bus with 16-25 people.

Commercial Tour Fee - Motor Coach (26+ persons) - $100.00
Entry for commercial motor coaches with 26+ persons.

For the most current information on our fee program, see our Fees and Passes page. 

Location

Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: A Great Place to Start

For more information on these tours, or if you'd like a great place to start, try the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Accessibility Information

Some sites are not accessible. Please visit our Accessibility Page while planning your adventures.

Oak trees and grasses growing alongside wetlands and dunes in Miller Woods.

K. George