Indiana Dunes National Park
Oak Savannah Bike Trail
easy FamiliesCasual CyclistsBirders
4 mi Distance
Varies Estimated Time
roundtrip Trail Type
What to Expect
This is about as flat and forgiving as a national park trail gets — a paved rail trail that rolls through oak savannah habitat and skirts the shore of Lake George. You'll start on smooth asphalt wide enough for two-way bike and foot traffic, passing through corridors of mature hardwoods that provide welcome shade on summer days. The lake views are the main draw here, with glimpses of water through the trees that open up at a few key vantage points along the route. The four-mile roundtrip is a casual two-mile out-and-back with virtually no elevation change, making it feel more like a greenway stroll than a backcountry hike. Birders will want to linger — the oak savannah ecosystem supports species you won't find in the surrounding dune country. This trail is perfect for anyone who wants to experience Indiana Dunes without breaking a sweat.
Safety Advisory
Watch for fast-moving cyclists, especially around blind curves where the trail bends through the forest. Stay to the right and keep children close.
Trail Details
Distance 4 miles round-trip
Difficulty easy
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type roundtrip
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Oak Savannah Bike Trail
Pro Tips
Trail Tip
Go early on summer weekends — this trail is popular with both hikers and cyclists, and the paved surface means road bikes move fast. Weekday mornings are noticeably quieter.
Trail Tip
Bring binoculars instead of trekking poles. The oak savannah habitat along this corridor is one of the best birding spots in the park, with warblers and woodpeckers active in the canopy from April through June.
Trail Tip
The Lake George overlook about a mile in makes the best photo stop — the light is warmest in the last two hours before sunset when the water catches golden tones through the trees.
Photos
NPS