Indiana Dunes National Park

IN
Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the park’s 16,000 acres.
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WEATHER INFO

On average, the warmest month is July and the highest recorded temperature was 105F in 1934. The coolest month is January, with the lowest recorded temperature of -25F in 1985. June sees the most precipitation with an average rainfall of 4.66 Inches.

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DIRECTIONS INFO

Falls Church, Virginia
Navigate to Park
11.0 hr
Indiana Dunes
Visitors can access the national park via Interstate 94, the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90), U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 20, Indiana State Road 49, and various other local roads. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located on Indiana State Road 49, between U.S. Highway 20 and Interstate 94 (1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304). For a driving map to the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center or other locations, check out our maps page.
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Alerts

CAUTION

Road Blocked to West Beach

The main road navigating to West Beach is now blocked due to construction at the railroad crossing near the intersection of North County Rd and Route 12 until September 19. Please use the alternative route to West Beach as described on the park's status page.

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PARK CLOSURE

Partial Trail Closure - Dunewood Trace

Partially open. Persistent flooding west of the campground currently limits access to the entire trail. Hikers may not always be able to traverse the full length.

PARK CLOSURE

Closure - Hobart Woodland Trail

Closed. The Woodland Trail is closed indefinitely, and no reopening date is available. However, the paved Oak Savannah Trail remains open.

PARK CLOSURE

Closure - Tolleston Dunes Trail

Closed. Chainsaw crews are actively working to clear the trail, with a projected reopening in the next 1-2 weeks.

PARK CLOSURE

Partial Closure - Upland Trail

The middle boardwalk was lost due to a tree strike, making the full loop inaccessible. At this time, there is no timeline for replacement.

PARK CLOSURE

Closure - Heron Rookery Trail

Closed. The trail is undergoing tree removal and rerouting due to riverbank collapse. It is expected to reopen in the fall, after mosquito activity decreases.

INFORMATION

Other Park Conditions and Updates

For more information on storm related repairs and other park conditions like beach and hiking safety visit our park status page.

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CAUTION

Water Safety Alert

After recent storms, E. coli levels are likely to reach above safe swimming standards. Entering the water after heavy rainfall is never recommended. Know before you go and always check our Beach Safety page before heading to park beaches.

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PARK CLOSURE

Partial Closures to Little Calumet River Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail

Marquette Greenway construction will require closing sections of the Glenwood Dunes Trail (April–December 2026) and Little Calumet River / Mnoké Prairie Trail (May–December 2026). Closure dates may shift as work progresses. Please follow all posted closures and check the park website or NPS App for updates.

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CAUTION

Partial Trail Closure at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk

Closed portion of Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Trail along Burns Waterway due to unsafe conditions from erosional damage. This trail portion will remain closed while funding is sought for repair work. Pier access remains open on either side of closure.

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