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Dune Ridge Trail at Indiana Dunes National Park takes hikers through a diverse set of habitats in a short amount of time. It’s located in Beverly Shores, just south of Kemil Beach and the Century of Progress Homes.
The Trail
Dune Ridge Trail runs for about ¾ mile and is moderately difficult. It starts on a sand trail through a fordune habitat. It’s a fragile habitat that contains marram and little bluestem grasses as well as cottonwood trees. It’s very important to stay on the trail because these grasses could die if stepped on. The trail quickly transitions from fordune into an oak savanna.
After the sand trail is a junction for the loop trail. It’s recommended to go clockwise. The first part of the loop is through an oak savanna. The soil becomes much sturdier and it’s shaded.
Next, the trail climbs to the top of the dune. From there, you can get excellent views of the Great Marsh. The trail then loops back around to the junction and down the sand trail back to the parking lot.
Birdwatching
The Dune Ridge Trail is also good for birdwatching. While I didn’t catch a glimpse of any smaller species, I was able to spot some turkey vultures soaring above.
