Come hike with us! We’ll celebrate Earth Day with a beautiful hike at the birthplace of ecology: Cowles Bog Trail at Indiana Dunes National Park.
UPDATED PARKING DIRECTIONS: We’ll meet at the Greenbelt parking lot (park passes are required) at 9:45 for a 10am departure. This is the first parking area you’ll see after turning onto Mineral Springs Road from Rte 12. It’s just past the train tracks on the left.
Favorite Chicago day hike! Total trail length is about 5 miles, but the main loop is just under 4 miles over highly variable terrain.
The mile-long Greenbelt Trail that goes to the outlying parking area is flat and linear, but it skirts the outer edges of the wetland offering fascinating glimpses into ongoing restoration efforts, and provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Truly enjoyable any season of the year. We’ve hiked it in knee-deep snow, in the dead of summer, and in the rain. Spring and fall are especially lovely.
Surprisingly steep climbs. One section may require the use of four limbs.
The “bog” in the name is misleading. It’s actually a fen, and its rich flora provides gorgeous and changing scenery throughout the year. In addition, the trail goes through woodland, duneland and a wild Lake Michigan beach, which is a great place for a mid-hike picnic, or a cooling swim during summer months.
Highlights:
Amazing views, possiblity of spring flowers (lupines may be coming into season), phenomenal bird & wildlife viewing, natural beauty and serenity.
Details:
Time: Sunday, April 21st meet at 9:45am at Cowles Bog parking lot for 10am departure. We will finish by approximately 2pm
Hiking distance approximately 4 miles
Porta-potty available at the parking lot. No facilities trailside.
What to bring:
Footwear suitable for hiking in all terrains
Hat/sunglasses
Water
Sandwich or other portable food & beverage for mid-hike lakefront lunch.
Camera/binoculars
Park pass is required per vehicle. 7-day pass is $25, while an annual pass is $45 (and well worth it!) You can purchase the pass here.
Weather:
We’ll hike in any weather, except steady downpour. Notification, if necessary, will be sent by 6pm Saturday, April 20th.
Rain date: Sunday, April 28.
Registration is REQUIRED for this event: