The best walks and hikes in Lake County

Yes, Lake County has many options suitable for families. A great choice is the Grand Prairie loop from Splash Pad. It's a relatively flat 2.5-mile (4.1 km) walk that's easy for all skill levels. Most of the trails in the region are rated easy, with 18 easy hikes available.

The hiking experience in Lake County is defined by its unique landscape along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. You can expect to find lakeside paths, trails across the sand dunes of Indiana Dunes National Park, and routes that wind through local wetlands and lagoons. Most trails are fairly flat, with the main elevation changes found on the dune succession trails.

Absolutely. Many trails in the area are loops, making logistics simple. For a shorter walk, consider the Dunes Succession Trail loop from Ogden Dunes, which is about 2.4 miles (3.9 km). If you're looking for something longer, the Hough Pond loop from Shelter 1 offers a 3.7-mile (6 km) circuit.

While most trails are easy or moderate, there are a couple of difficult hikes for those seeking a challenge. The terrain's primary difficulty comes from navigating the sandy dunes rather than steep elevation gain. These more strenuous routes provide a great workout and unique scenery within the Indiana Dunes.

The trails in Lake County are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, from the waterside views along Lake Michigan to the unique dune landscapes in Indiana Dunes National Park.

Yes, many trails offer beautiful water views. The Whihala Beach County Park via 119th Street — Whitting route provides consistent views of Lake Michigan. Another excellent option is the Long Lake Trail loop from Ogden Dunes, which circles a smaller inland lake.

There are over 20 designated hiking routes in Lake County. These range from short, easy walks to longer, more moderate trails, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels and preferences.

Indiana Dunes National Park offers a diverse landscape. You'll hike over sandy dunes, through wooded sections, and along the shore of Lake Michigan. The Dunes Succession Trail – Dune Trail loop is a perfect example, showcasing how the environment changes from beach to forest.

Yes, you can explore the region's wetland ecosystems. The Middle Grand Calumet Lagoon – Lake Street Beach loop takes you through marshland terrain on your way to the beach, offering a great opportunity for birdwatching.

Several forest preserves are local favorites for hiking.

Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve is highly regarded for its scenic 2.5-mile trail around Sterling Lake. Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is another popular spot, offering extensive trails through woodlands along the Des Plaines River.

For a quieter experience, McDonald Woods Forest Preserve provides a pleasant gravel path around a couple of small lakes.