Exploring the Indiana Dunes

It never ceases to amaze me how much the landscape around you can change within just a few hours of traveling. Growing up in Central Indiana, there was no part of the state I couldn’t reach by taking a trip on one of the highways or an Interstate. From the dazzling streets of Indianapolis, to the sleepy foothills of the great Hoosier Forest, and all the way up to the spectacular coast of Lake Michigan…over the years I’ve been privy to many of the “hidden” gems that make Indiana’s landscape so special. But nowhere have I experienced as many changes in my surroundings within such a short distance as I have at the Indiana Dunes.

Every time I step out into Cowles Bog, travel up to Michigan City, or hike the Succession Trail at West Beach, I’m reminded of how unique this place is. I’ve seen plants here that you’d never find in Brown County, there are birds here I could only dream of seeing back home, and comparing the cultural ocean of the greater Chicago area to the tiny pond that is Indianapolis is like comparing apples to grapes. This entire region is so alive with… well… life! And most days, the only thing you need to do to experience it all is walk around a little. Whether you’re traveling by train, car, bike, or on foot, there’s a whole world of sights to see with every trip.

I think that’s what I’ve enjoyed the most so far about my time at DLC. I certainly don’t plan on stopping my adventuring any time soon, as I continue to investigate my new home. And to all my lovely readers, I’d encourage you to explore the world around you too. Not just so you can get your steps in, mind you, but for the experience! As the great Henry Chapin once said, “It’s got to be the going, not the getting there, that’s good.”

Alex Burdsall

Naturalist Educator