West Beach offers a great combination of hiking and relaxing at the beach. The trails are varied and encompass many habitats. There are great views from the top of the Dune Succession Trail stairs, a beautiful pinery of jack pines, birding opportunities along Long Lake and secluded sections of forest. After hiking, relax and swim at the beach.
Trail Features: Birding, Lake Michigan, Swimming, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife
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Today we are hiking at the Indiana Dunes West Beach. Combining the primary trails; Long Lake, Dune Succession and West Beach Trails, we hike a loop which covers a good amount of the West Beach area.
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Scott’s in the water filming while Ryan is on the beach. This is a good look at the West Beach Lake front and swimming area. Perfect weather today with good shoreline views.
Ryan discusses the views from the top of the stairs on the West Beach Succession Trail.
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I can imagine most people go to the West Beach Dunes and never hike the Long Lake Trail. I highly suggest it. Long Lake is a pretty interesting place to watch wildlife.
Experience the wetlands at the Long Lake Lookout point. We took several 360 videos of Long Lake because we were so intrigued. It does not look like much from afar, but stop for a bit and allow Long Lake to reveal some of its secrets.
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Our final look at Long Lake and the less glamorous side of the dunes. Maybe less glamorous but certainly fun to hike.
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