Paul's Woods Loop

The trailhead for the Paul's Woods Loop is located at the Paul H. Douglas Center within the Indiana Dunes National Park. Parking is available at the center.

Yes, pets are permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring and summer are particularly vibrant with wildflowers, such as lupine, especially in the oak savanna sections. Be prepared for full sun exposure near the beach during warmer months.

The Paul's Woods Loop is located within the Indiana Dunes National Park. While there might be an entrance fee for the park itself, specific permits are generally not required for hiking this trail. For the most current information on park entrance fees, please check the official National Park Service website.

The terrain is quite varied, including packed soil, gravel, and boardwalk sections. Closer to Lake Michigan, you'll encounter significant stretches of loose sand, which can make walking more challenging. The trail also features some elevation changes as it winds through towering sand dunes.

The full Paul's Woods Loop, which includes the beach trail, is approximately 3.4 miles and typically takes about 2 hours to hike. A shorter loop around the Douglas Center is about 0.9 miles and takes around 30 minutes.

You'll experience a diverse range of habitats, from wetlands where you might spot beavers, to globally rare black oak savannas with wildflowers, and towering sand dunes. The trail crosses the Grand Calumet River and culminates at the beautiful Lake Michigan shore.

Yes, the trailhead is located at the Paul H. Douglas Center, which offers restrooms and potable water during its operating hours.

It's advisable to bring water and sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, as sections of the trail, particularly near the beach, are exposed to full sun. Comfortable footwear suitable for varied terrain, including loose sand, is also recommended.

The trail combines a shorter loop around the Paul H. Douglas Center with an out-and-back section that extends to Lake Michigan. So, while a portion is a loop, the full experience to the beach involves an out-and-back segment.

The diverse ecosystems along the trail support various wildlife, including beavers in the wetlands. The oak savanna is particularly rich in native grasses and wildflowers, such as lupine, especially during spring and summer.