Dune Park Train Station to Bird Observatory: a Moderate Hike

10am CT 11am ET

In order to avoid the traffic on the holiday weekend, we'll park at the train station and approach the State park on foot

This route involves some easy sidewalk strolling, and some sand-hill climbing along a lesser know side of the state park.

We'll start at the Train station, go over the tracks, and walk the sidewalk next to the road leading to the state park for almost a mile. Then we turn left to the lesser explored side of the park. There are some quiet trails over and around some grassy dunes, finally arriving at the bird tower.

The architecturally cool "bird observation platform" looks out over the lake and beach from the top of a dune. We'll probably go down to the lake from there, enjoy the view-- then return mostly the way we came.

Difficulty
East/Moderate. The total distance is about 3.5 miles. Half of that is walking on pavement. The other half involves climbing some sand hills, which provides the challenge. The duration should be closer to 2 hours than 3.

Details

• Bathrooms are available at the train station, and not too far away from the bird platform
• In case of bad weather the hike may be moved
• Dogs are allowed on a leash

Entrance
Parking is free at the Dune Park station.

Technically a pass is required to hike into the State Park. But this route will not take us past the checkpoint. I have an annual pass and consider that sufficient. I leave it to you to take care of your admission.

Feel free to text or call me at 217-717-7860 for last minute details.

Hope to see you there,
Jonathan