Indiana's Pretty Town On The Shores Of Lake Michigan Has Scenic Parks & Trails To Explore

Indiana is famous for its diverse landscape and Midwestern charm. From its tranquil countryside awash with small towns to bustling cities, Indiana promises an unforgettable adventure. In the northwest corner of the state is Porter, a small town in Porter County that superbly blends the beauty of Lake Michigan with the untamed charm of the Indiana Dunes. The lesser-known town is one of the most charming lake towns in America, thanks to its amazing parks and winding hiking trails that highlight the best of Indiana's outdoors. Porter is part of the greater Indiana Dunes National Park region, which stretches along Lake Michigan's southern shore.

Porter is about 50 miles from Chicago, and about 16 miles east of Gary along I-90. If you are flying in, you can land in Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY), which is about 20 miles from Porter.From the airport you can rent a car or take a taxi to Porter.  Porter's history is tied to Porter County, which became Porter Township in 1841 and later lent its name to the town.  Originally known as Fish Lake Township in recognition of a nearby lake, the name was changed in 1841 after a petition by some residents, who had an issue with the name. Porter town grew during the construction of railroads through Indiana. Porter town grew during the construction of railroads through Indiana.

Porter borders Indiana Dunes National Park, a must-visit stop for some outdoor adventure. This underrated lakeside national park boasts great beaches and over 50 miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes from wetlands to oak savannas. One of the most popular routes is the Cowles Bog Trail, a 4.7-mile loop trail that starts at the north parking lot of the park and reaches Bailly Beach. The unique plant diversity you will see along the trail inspired Dr. Henry Cowles in the late 1800s. Fascinated by how flora thrived in an ever-changing and harsh dune environment, the botany professor carried out extensive research around vegetation succession in these dunes that shaped modern ecological science — he is known as the "Father of Ecology in North America." 

The Dune Ridge Trail is also a great way to discover cottonwood trees and marram. This short 0.7-mile trail takes less than an hour to knock out and brings you to Gleason Heights, which will reward you with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. For keen hikers, the 3 Dune Challenge is a 1.5-mile trek up three towering sand dunes of up to 192 feet. While this is the most challenging trail in the park, you will be greeted by jaw-dropping vistas of Lake Michigan and sometimes the silhouette of Chicago. Porter's Hawthorne Park is also hotspot for tourists with its picnic areas, walking paths, and a playground. You will also have access to the Little Calumet River Access Trail, a 1.3-mile trail that follows the edge of the river and passes through a marshy landscape.

If you are planning a weekend getaway near Porter, there's plenty to explore. Less than five minutes from Porter is the small town of Chesterton with a thriving downtown with a variety of accommodation and dining options. You can pause by the European Market, which sells fresh produce, baked goods, and different items from local artisans, chefs, farmers, and merchants. It is a lovely spot to find handmade crafts or souvenirs. While the market is seasonal, open May through October on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., it offers an unforgettable shopping experience. You can also visit the 157-acre Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve to explore more diverse landscapes. With over 5 miles of hiking trails, travelers can walk through the wooden boardwalks — be on the lookout for different types of wildlife such as whitetail deer, bald eagle, and red-tailed hawk.

If birdwatching is your thing, the preserve is one of the best birdwatching destinations to visit in America, and hosts hundreds of migrating birds in the fall and spring. For clear or up-close views of the sky messengers, don't forget to bring your binoculars. After a day of exploring, you can grab a bite at the Lucrezia Café in Chesterton. This is a local favorite serving Northern Italian cuisine with dishes like chicken piccata, lasagne, and Mediterranean branzino. If you are looking for an enchanting atmosphere to enjoy breakfast or lunch, head to the Third Coast Spice Café in Chesterton, a popular local gem managed by owners David & Lisa. Menu items include sandwiches, vegan specialties, salads, and drinks such as Dunes Sunset iced tea, red cream soda, and smoothies.