The best walks and hikes around Hobart

The Dune Succession Trail in Indiana Dunes National Park offers a unique ecological journey, showcasing how bare sand transforms into a shaded oak woodland. You'll traverse mixed terrain, from sandy paths to boardwalks, and climb a significant number of stairs to reach a stunning viewpoint. From the top, you'll be rewarded with expansive views of Lake Michigan and, on clear days, even the distant Chicago skyline.

This 0.6-mile (1.0 km) hike, with 46 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 16 minutes to complete. While rated easy, be prepared for a substantial climb involving 250 to 270 stairs, which makes it a good workout. It's a family-friendly route, but ensure everyone is comfortable with the stair ascent.

What makes this trail truly special is its "walkable ecology lesson," allowing you to observe the four stages of dune development firsthand. It's a short, impactful experience that combines natural beauty with an educational journey, making it one of the best trails in Indiana Dunes National Park for understanding the local environment.

The Oak Ridge Prairie Loop offers a delightful journey through a surprisingly diverse landscape in Griffith, Indiana. As you hike, you'll experience a mosaic of environments, from vibrant prairie restoration projects teeming with native species to tranquil woodlands, savannas, and even glimpses of wetlands and lakes. The trail's gentle, matted dirt and grass path makes for a pleasant walk, showcasing the park's transformation from bean fields into a biodiverse haven.

Planning your visit to the Oak Ridge Prairie Loop is straightforward, as it's part of the larger Oak Ridge Prairie County Park. You'll find ample parking at this regional hub, which also connects to the Oak Savannah and Erie Lackawanna trails for longer excursions. The park is open year-round, offering various activities beyond hiking, including fishing and playgrounds, making it a versatile destination for a day out.

This easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) loop, with its minimal 24 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes. It's particularly notable for its ecological significance, boasting over 500 different native species and serving as one of the most biodiverse parks in Lake County. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone seeking a gentle nature immersion.

The Prairie Duneland Trail is a delightful paved rail-trail offering a diverse and accessible outdoor experience. You'll wander through sections of remnant tallgrass prairies, under dense forest canopies, and past tranquil ponds, with trees often forming leafy arches overhead. The smooth asphalt surface makes for easy walking, allowing you to enjoy the changing scenery, from natural habitats to more suburban stretches, and spot local wildlife like deer and chipmunks.

This moderate route spans 9.8 miles (15.7 km) with a gentle 62 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete. Dedicated parking areas are available along the trail, some with amenities like restrooms and picnic shelters, making it convenient for a day out. Its flat terrain and shaded sections make it a great option for families and casual walkers, especially during the spring and fall.

As a successful "rails to trails" project, the Prairie Duneland Trail is a crown jewel in Indiana's trail network, connecting Chesterton and Hobart. It also links to other regional trails like the Oak Savannah Trail, offering opportunities for extended adventures. The trail is celebrated for its natural beauty, including rare wildflower habitats, and its high accessibility for a wide range of users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.

The Far Creek Run offers a delightful, easy hike, perfect for a quick nature fix. This short route, spanning just 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a negligible 6 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, provides a gentle walk alongside what is likely a peaceful creek or stream. You can expect a flat, accessible path, making it a great option for a leisurely stroll or a brief escape into natural surroundings.

Planning your visit to the Far Creek Run is straightforward due to its easy nature and short duration of around 21 minutes. Trailhead parking is typically available, though it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy days. This trail is suitable for most, requiring minimal preparation beyond comfortable footwear, and can be enjoyed year-round in good weather.

This trail stands out as an excellent choice for beginner hikers, families with young children, or anyone seeking a quick, low-impact outdoor activity in Portage. It's a simple, accessible option for enjoying the outdoors without committing to a longer, more strenuous adventure, providing a refreshing break from daily routines.

The West Beach 3-Loop Trail offers a surprisingly varied hiking experience within Indiana Dunes National Park. You'll wander through active dunes, restored oak savannas, and even a rare jack pine forest, all while enjoying views of Lake Michigan. The route, an easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop with 107 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a rewarding, shorter adventure.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at West Beach. Pets are permitted on the trails if kept on a leash, though they can't join you in the designated swimming area during summer. This trail is a great option for families, offering diverse scenery without being overly strenuous, though some sections do include stairs and loose sand.

What makes this trail stand out among popular routes is its ability to showcase three distinct environments in one go. From the challenging ascent up 270 stairs on the Dune Succession Trail, which rewards you with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline, to the birdwatching opportunities around Long Lake, it’s a compact natural history lesson. It's a fantastic way to experience the unique ecology of the Indiana Dunes.