Glenwood Dunes Trail (Main)

Q: Do I really need the trail map?

Absolutely. 13 junctions without clear signage make a detailed map mandatory. NPS provides free maps at the kiosk and online.

Q: Are horses and dogs really allowed here?

Horses allowed March 16-Dec 14 on the main loop (counter-clockwise). Dogs allowed on leash everywhere except the equestrian section.

Q: How bad are ticks here?

Tick presence is year-round. Check yourself thoroughly post-hike. Consider permethrin-treated clothing or DEET for legs.

Q: Can I do this hike with young kids?

Depends on age and experience. The 6.8-mile main loop suits kids 8+ with strong navigation skills. Shorter connector loops exist if needed.

Q: Is summer really that buggy?

Mosquitoes and biting flies peak June-August. Start early, wear DEET, and consider spring or fall instead for a better experience.

Overview

About This Trail

Navigate 13 trail junctions through interconnected dune loops with minimal elevation gain—a navigation puzzle, not a fitness test. Packed dirt and sand sections offer zero shade; full sun exposure dominates open dune areas. The 6.8-mile main loop suits all fitness levels, but successful completion demands a detailed trail map and attentive route-finding. Extensions to nearly 15 miles expose different park sections and are optional.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderate

Trail Highlights

Extensive loop system connecting multiple dune environments; optional extensions to Dunewood Campground and Dune Park South Shore Railroad Station

Insider Tips

• Counter-clockwise is the recommended direction; safer with equestrian traffic. • The short cut-off at the east end avoids the Calumet Dunes paved trail. • Start early for daylight across 13 junctions. • Parking lot accommodates horse trailers; popular with equestrian users. • Trail connects to Dunewood Campground (4.4 miles) and Dune Park station (2.6 miles)—good for multi-day exploration.

Best Season to Hike

May-October for optimal conditions and stable weather

Hiking Tips

Bring the official trail map—13 junctions will fold you without it.
Carry 2-3L water minimum; dune sections offer zero shade.
Hike counter-clockwise as recommended for safety with equestrians.
Check yourself for ticks post-hike, especially spring-fall.
DEET mandatory June-August; mosquitoes and biting flies peak.
Avoid touching poison ivy at trail edges.
Wear light colors on open dune sections for heat reflection.

Family Info

Easy-moderate difficulty suits older children (8+) with hiking experience. Younger kids may struggle with navigation (13 junctions) or 6.8-mile distance. Sandy sections fatigue short legs faster. Poison ivy and tick precautions essential with kids. Equestrian and dog traffic adds management complexity.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 6.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 129 ft

Duration: 4 hours for main loop; 6-8 hours with extensions

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Type: Loop with optional extensions

Surface: Packed dirt with sand sections and some boardwalk

Getting There

Trailhead: 1475 North Brummitt Road, Chesterton, IN 46304

Parking: Large paved lot accommodating horse trailers

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required

Fees: $25 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); motorcycle $20, organized groups $15 per person

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required or available

Trail Rules

Dogs: Permitted on leash (6' or shorter) everywhere except equestrian portion; prohibited on equestrian loop for safety

Biking: No. Bicycles and motorized vehicles prohibited.

Trail Markers: Well-worn path but complex with 13 junctions. Bring detailed trail map.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Potable water available at Glenwood Dunes and Calumet Dunes trailheads. No water on trail—carry all you need.

Shade: Minimal to none. Fully exposed dune sections with intense sun. Zero shade relief.

Hazards:

Ticks present year-round—check yourself post-hike. Poison ivy grows on trail edges; don't touch. Mosquitoes and biting flies severe June-August. 13 trail junctions create navigation complexity; map reading essential. Open dune sections offer zero shade and intense sun exposure. Weather changes rapidly; prepare for shifts.

Emergency: In case of emergency or to report a crime, call 1-800-PARK-TIP

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate, busier on weekends and fair-weather days

Peak Times: Weekends, May-October, and fair-weather days

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Trail surface is rooty/sandy—not wheelchair accessible. Restrooms at trailhead are wheelchair accessible.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Restrooms and potable water at Glenwood Dunes and Calumet Dunes trailheads. First-come picnic shelters with grills at Glenwood Dunes lot. Dunewood Campground (4.4 miles via connector trail) has restrooms and water. Extensions reach Dune Park South Shore Railroad Station (2.6 miles west).

FAQs

Is the elevation gain really this easy?

Yes. 129 feet over 6.8 miles is a non-event. The challenge is navigation, not fitness. Bring a map.

Do I really need the trail map?

Are horses and dogs really allowed here?

How bad are ticks here?

Can I do this hike with young kids?

Is summer really that buggy?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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