In Lake, discoveries range from rare dune ecosystems and wetlands to historic architecture and a specially designed prayer trail. The contrasting landscapes and trails are especially striking: you can observe nature, explore on foot or cycle along a paved section.
Dunes, Prairie and Trails
Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is a 179-acre, state-designated nature preserve with a unique dune-and-swale ecosystem that is rare worldwide. At Hoosier Prairie Nature Preserve, the focus is on observing native birds and other animals in their natural surroundings. At the Paul H. Douglas Trail in Miller Woods, the route passes through wetlands, a globally rare black oak savanna, open dunes and a beach.
The trails also vary in length and character. Oak Ridge Prairie has five miles of hiking trails and is also a regional hub for the Oak Savannah Trail and the Erie Lackawanna Trail. For cycling, the Oak Savannah Trail offers a ten-mile paved section from Oak Ridge Prairie County Park to the Prairie Duneland Trail at Lake/Porter County Line Road in Portage. Stoney Run, meanwhile, covers 317 acres of forests, ponds and open meadows; two permanent orienteering courses add to the nature experience.
Marquette Park offers a distinctive setting along the lakefront: this 241-acre historic park is in Gary’s Miller Beach neighborhood and is completely surrounded by Indiana Dunes National Park. Its relationship to the national park is part of the site’s character, as is its lakeside location.
Water, Wildlife and Recreation
At Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park, the levees provide horseback riding trails open to the public. The park is also home to herds of deer, many duck species and other wildlife. A public canoe and boat launch provides access to the Kankakee River. Wildlife watching, horseback riding and access to the water are distinct ways to enjoy the park.
At Three Rivers County Park, a 1.5-mile paved walking and cycling path circles the lake. Fishing is possible from the shore and from piers. Those interested in navigation rather than a lap around the lake can find two permanent orienteering courses at Stoney Run; Oak Ridge Prairie, by contrast, has five miles of hiking trails. These specific details about trail length and type make the differences between these nature experiences easy to understand.
History and a Look at the Starry Sky
Buckley Homestead is an open-air museum dedicated to regional history. The Buckley Barn is more than 100 years old and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds are also home to the Calumet Astronomy Center, about a mile south of the barn area. The Thomas Conway Observatory regularly holds events with the Calumet Astronomical Society. As event dates may change, check the schedule before making specific plans.
Among the historic buildings at Deep River County Park, Wood’s Historic Grist Mill is located on the Old Lincoln Highway. Big Maple Lake is also in Deep River County Park and offers fishing opportunities and a lakeside trail. Historic buildings and waterfront recreation are two distinct aspects of a visit to the park.
Another special discovery is the Shrine of Christ’s Passion. Its interactive, half-mile-long prayer trail depicts the final days in the life of Jesus Christ. The Prayer Trail features 40 life-size bronze sculptures and audio recordings at listening stations. Our Lady of Guadalupe Plaza includes two bronze sculptures and a chapel for quiet prayer and reflection. The “Moses at Mount Sinai” area extends the route with its own section featuring music, narration, lighting and sound effects.
Local History and Special Interests
In Crown Point, the historic “The First Walk” tour follows a two-mile self-guided route past 30 homes. The Lake County Historical Society Museum preserves artifacts and documents relating to the history of Lake County, particularly Crown Point. The history of the Lake County Fair is also represented there: the Lake County Agricultural Society founded it in Crown Point in 1852.
Bellaboo’s Play & Discovery Center is located in Three Rivers County Park. It is a self-directed play facility with colorful, fun and safe areas for children from infancy through age nine. Discoveries here range from landscapes and regional history to specific activities for a variety of interests.
Discover More Places
Discover more destinations: Schererville, Merrillville, Hammond, Hobart, Crown Point, Griffith, Cedar Lake, Munster, Gary, Saint John.
For the broader travel overview: Indiana.
