Northwest Indiana residents have developed a tradition unique to our region – hiking in the Indiana Dunes on January 1st. This annual First Day Hike at Indiana Dunes State Park offers an invigorating way to kick off the new year, combining natural beauty, physical activity, and community spirit.
The 2025 hike will take participants on a moderate 2-mile loop starting at the City West Shelter, following the Lake Michigan shoreline before connecting to Trail 7 and returning via the Campground. What makes this experience special isn’t just the route – it’s the opportunity to experience the Dunes in winter, when the crowds are gone, and the landscape takes on an entirely different character.
There’s something magical about walking along Lake Michigan’s shore on New Year’s Day. The winter waves crash against the beach, creating an atmosphere entirely different from summer’s busy scenes. The bare trees and snow-dusted dunes offer views you simply can’t get during warmer months. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some winter wildlife or ice formations along the shore.
The event is part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative, but Northwest Indiana puts its own stamp on the tradition. The Friends of Indiana Dunes sponsor a welcoming campfire with treats at the hike’s conclusion – because even in winter, Hoosier hospitality doesn’t take a break.
Practical Details:
- No registration required
- Park entrance fee applies ($7 in-state, $12 out-of-state)
- Programs begin at Central Time
- Nature Center is open from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CT
- Arrive early as parking can fill quickly
You can find the details on the official walk here.
Alternative New Year’s Day Hikes at the Dunes
If the organized First Day Hike doesn’t fit your schedule, the Indiana Dunes state and national parks offer several other fantastic trails to start your year:
Bailly Chellberg Farm Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This historic trail combines nature and history. It winds through woodland and prairie landscapes and connects two significant historic sites. The Bailly Homestead dates to the early 1800s fur trading era, while the Chellberg Farm represents the region’s Swedish immigrant farming heritage. Winter offers a unique perspective on these historic structures, and the bare trees make wildlife spotting easier. The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it perfect for families or those seeking a gentler New Year’s walk.
Visit their website to learn more.
Cowles Bog Trail
Distance: 4.7 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Named for Dr. Henry Cowles, the botanist who helped establish the Dunes’ ecological importance, this trail offers one of the most diverse hiking experiences in the park. It takes you through wetlands, past rare black oak savannas, and up to dramatic dune overlooks with spectacular Lake Michigan views. The steep dune climbs can be challenging, especially in winter conditions, but the panoramic lake views make them worthwhile. This is an excellent choice for experienced hikers looking for a more strenuous start to their year.
Learn more about this walk here.
Dunes Ridge Trail (Trail 10)
Distance: 0.7 miles one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Though relatively short, this trail packs plenty of scenic punch. It follows a high ridge between the park’s beach parking lot and the Nature Center, offering stunning views of both Lake Michigan and the surrounding dune landscape. In winter, the bare trees open up even better views, and the ridge location often creates interesting snow and ice formations. The elevation changes make it more challenging than its length might suggest.
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
Distance: 0.9 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
This paved trail, perfect for those wanting a shorter winter walk, features a restored stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline and the mouth of the Burns Waterway. The breakwater and fishing pier offer dramatic views of winter waves on Lake Michigan, and the site’s industrial heritage provides a unique contrast to the natural scenery. The pavilion offers a warming shelter and restroom facilities, making this an ideal choice for families or those who prefer more amenities during their winter hiking.
Tips for Winter Dunes Hiking:
- Wear appropriate footwear with good traction
- Dress in layers
- Bring water (even in winter)
- Check trail conditions before starting
- Consider trekking poles for steep or icy sections
- Let someone know your planned route
- Carry a charged phone for emergencies
Remember that winter conditions can make familiar trails more challenging, but they also offer unique rewards – pristine views, solitude, and a special sense of accomplishment. Whether you choose the organized First Day Hike or one of these alternatives, starting your year at the Dunes connects you with one of Northwest Indiana’s greatest natural treasures.
Bundle up, bring your camera, and start 2025 the Region way – atop the magnificent Indiana Dunes.