With scenic trails winding through forests, skirting lakes, and crossing wetlands, LaPorte County offers routes that showcase the best of the outdoors. Whether you're in the heart of Michigan City, exploring parks in LaPorte, or pedaling along quiet country roads, you'll find trails to match your pace -- leisurely or adventurous.
Top Hiking & Biking Spots
Indiana Dunes National & State Parks - Just west of Michigan City, towering dunes rise from Lake Michigan's shoreline. Trails like the Cowles Bog Trail and Dune Ridge Trail lead through forests, prairies, and wetlands, offering incredible views and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
Singing Sands Trail & Trail Creek Greenway, Michigan City - Michigan City's portion of the Marquette Greenway Trail connects neighborhoods, lakefront parks, and nature areas. The Singing Sands Trail links with the Trail Creek Greenway, which follows a scenic waterway past wetlands and wooded areas. Future expansions will connect even more local gems, including Friendship Botanic Gardens.
Bluhm County Park, Westville - With upland forests, wetlands, and prairies, Bluhm offers paved trails, nature paths, and mountain bike trails for riders who like a bit more challenge.
Creek Ridge County Park, Michigan City - Boardwalks, forest trails, and open spaces make this 112-acre park ideal for both hiking and biking. Wildlife sightings are common along the way.
Luhr County Park, LaPorte - Paved trails, a boardwalk, and an observation tower offer easy ways to explore this 89-acre park. Perfect for a mix of hiking and casual cycling.
Red Mill County Park, Michigan City - Multi-use trails here accommodate both hikers and mountain bikers. The park's wetlands and the headwaters of the Little Calumet River provide a beautiful backdrop.
Chessie Trail, LaPorte - This paved, multi-use trail winds along the old Chessie Railroad corridor, connecting neighborhoods and offering access to Clear Lake. It's great for both short, scenic walks and bike rides.
LaPorte County Bikeway, Countywide - A network of 20 mapped routes totaling 420 miles links county parks, city trails, and attractions. Many routes are available through the Ride with GPS app, complete with maps, route descriptions, and points of interest.
City Trails & Lakeside Loops
Soldiers Memorial Park, LaPorte - Trails here loop around Stone Lake and Pine Lake, with beaches, fishing spots, and picnic areas along the way.
Clear Lake Pathway, LaPorte - Clear Lake now features a beautiful new walking path that circles the entire shoreline. It's a tranquil and refreshing destination for walking, running, or gentle cycling -- great for taking in the lake's views at your own pace.
Washington Park, Michigan City - Lake Michigan views, lighthouse photo ops, and access to sandy beaches make this a beautiful walking destination.
Friendship Botanic Gardens, Michigan City - Over 100 acres of themed gardens and wooded trails -- perfect for a peaceful stroll or an easy nature walk.
Specialty Routes for Cyclists
Looking for more structured bike routes? As mentioned, check out the countywide offerings on Ride with GPS under "LaPorte County Shared Bikeways." These mapped routes (with details like distances, elevation info, and points of interest) are a helpful tool whether you're planning a casual cruise or a longer adventure.
Here's a selection of the popular loops: