Last updated: May 20, 2024
Thing to Do
1966 Hiking Challenge
Looking to explore more of the national park and really see what makes Indiana Dunes so special? If so, here is the adventure for you. The 1966 Hiking Challenge is comprised of 19 hikes that cover 66 miles of trail in the park, celebrating the park’s founding in 1966. We will offer 19 weekly ranger led hikes every Saturday at 8:00 am starting on May 11 and culminating at the Outdoor Adventure Festival on September 14. The hikes will range in length from 1 to 7 miles and take place in every area of the national park. Those that complete the series will earn a free 1966 Hiking Challenge sticker. Don’t worry if you cannot make all 19 ranger-led hikes. A check-off sheet will be available at the Visitor Center, or the the Paul H. Douglas Center, to complete the hikes on your own.
NPS app users: For more information, including specific dates and trail locations, visit this Thing-to-Do on our website and scroll down.
1966 Hiking Challenge Trails
For questions, call the Visitor Center at (219) 395-1882, or the Douglas Center at (219) 395-1824.
Remember, safety is of upmost importance in any situation. Please visit our trail safety page to be ready and informed.
Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Heron Rookery East Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Chellberg Farm Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Pinhook Bog Parking Lot
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*Must attend a ranger-led hike
Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Paul Douglas Center Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Tolleston Dunes Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Mount Baldy Parking Lot
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*Must attend a ranger-led hike for this closed area.
Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Indiana Dunes Visitor Center Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Glenwood Dunes Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Visitor Center Parking Lot
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** $2 per person State Park walk-in fee required.
Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Paul Douglas Center Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: West Beach Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Paul Douglas Center Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Robinson Lake Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Calumet Dunes Parking Lot (USGS Office)
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Difficulty level: Rugged
Trailhead location: Cowles Bog North Gravel Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Chellberg Farm Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Moderate
Trailhead location: Kemil Beach Parking Lot
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Difficulty level: Easy
Trailhead location: Great Marsh South Parking Lot
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Get inspired by watching this quick video introducing the 1966 Hiking Challenge!
Transcript
[Cut to Ranger standing near a trailhead]
Ranger: “Are you up for a challenge? Join us for an unforgettable adventure!”
[Montage of differing trail scenes]
Narrator: “Introducing our weekly hiking challenge series!”
[Cut to visitors happily hiking together]
Narrator: “Over 19 weeks, we’ll explore 19 unique trails, each showcasing a different area of the park.”
[1966 logo appears]
Narrator: “That’s 66 miles, symbolizing the year Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was established in 1966.”
[Cut to ranger leading group of hikers, pointing to an interesting feature]
Ranger: “As your guide, we’ll unveil hidden gems, share fascinating stories, and connect you with the natural wonders that make this place so special.”
[Montage of happy hikers enjoying the experience]
Narrator(voice-over): “Join us each week as we unlock the beauty of the dunes; from tranquil forests to sun-kissed beaches.”
[Closing shot: Group of hikers reaching a stopping point, top of a hill, etc.]
Narrator: “Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Take the challenge and let nature inspire you.”
[NPS Logo appears]
Narrator: “Indiana Dunes National Park- where each step is a discovery.”
- Duration:
- 1 minute, 6 seconds
Are you up for the challenge? The 1966 Hiking Challenge is comprised of 19 hikes that cover 66 miles of trail in the park, celebrating the park’s founding in 1966.