Paul H. Douglas Trails @ Indiana Dunes National Park

The Paul H. Douglas Trail in Miller Woods winds through several habitats including wetlands, globally rare black oak savanna, open dunes and beach. The views of the lake and the dunes are incredible. The oak savanna's native grasses and wildflowers, including lupine, thrive in the sunlight and open forest floor. Please stay single file on the narrow trail to protect yourself from the abundant poison ivy along the trail edges as well as the fragile lupine habitat.

Trail Features: Birding, Fall Colors, Lake, River, Swimming, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife
Must See Gems: Dunes and Lake Michigan

• National Park passes are required.
• Trail Length – Douglas Center loop: 0.9 miles. Beach trail: 3.4 miles.
• Hike Time – Douglas Center loop: 30 minutes. Beach trail: 2 hours.
• Difficulty – Douglas Center loop: easy. Beach trail: moderate with some elevation change closer to the lake.
• Trail Surface – Packed dirt with some sections of loose sand. Be aware, trail conditions can change quickly due to high lake levels and storms.
• Facilities – Year-round restrooms and potable water in the Paul H. Douglas Center during open hours.
• Pets – Permitted on a leash (6' or shorter).

Safety

• Please stay on the trail and respect closed area signs. Going off trail damages fragile habitat.
• Ticks are present year-round. Take precautionary measures to prevent bites.
• Poison ivy can be present on the edges of the trail.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
• In case of an emergency or to report a crime, call 1-800-PARK-TIP.

Accessibility

• Trails are not wheelchair accessible.
• The Paul H. Douglas Center, restrooms, and the walkway from the building to the marsh boardwalk and picnic tables are all wheelchair accessible.

Part of the Indiana Dunes National Park