Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes National Park is full of beauty in every direction. Your guide will navigate you down the Chicago Lakefront Trail into Indiana, where you will enjoy peaceful biking on the Erie Lackawanna Trail followed by the Oak Savanna Trail. Once you reach the Indiana Dunes, your bags will be waiting for you at your hotel. Dinner will be provided and after you’ll have a chance to explore the picturesque shoreline for sunset. The following morning, your guide will take you to the National Park Visitor Center followed by a hike. As you set out on the trails, prepare to be amazed by the towering sand dunes that rise dramatically from the landscape. Wander through the wildflower meadows and discover what earns the Indiana Dunes its remarkable status as a national park. After lunch you can hike the iconic Mount Baldy or spend some time on the beach swimming and kayaking. You will be driven back home feeling inspired.
Itinerary
Day 1
Departure
Bikers will be asked to arrive at the meet-up location at 7am on Saturday morning with everything they need for the ride. Check our packing list for more details on what to pack. Riders’ bags will be loaded up into the vehicle while the riders apply sunscreen provided by our team.
Before rolling out, your guide will conduct a morning brief to review the 65 mile route, safety protocols and address any concerns or preferences among the riders.
Rest Stops
A rest stop will be scheduled to see top attractions of the area approximately every 15 miles, but this increment is often adjusted based on the fatigue of riders, the weather conditions, and the need for any bathroom breaks. The riders have full say of how often rest stops are made to ensure everyone has a comfortable and safe ride.
Lunch
The group will stop at Grindhouse Cafe, one of the most iconic coffee shops in the area frequented by cyclists. The coffee house has great sandwiches and is always mixing up their menu with new items. This gem is the perfect spot to fuel up and is truly loved by the cycling community.
Arrival in Indiana Dunes
Your bags will be waiting for you at Al & Sally’s Motel, where you can shower and change before dinner. Dinner will be provided and after you’ll have a chance to explore the picturesque shoreline for the sunset.
Day 2
Visitor Center
After breakfast, your guide will take you to the National Park Visitor Center, where friendly staff will guide you through the park's rich history and diverse ecosystems. Choose between many different hiking trails to explore one of the most famous sand dunes named Mount Baldy.
Beach
Head to the beach to cool off in the water, where you can either kayak or simply relax by the waves and soak up the sun.
Century of Progress Homes
You'll also have time to wander through Chicago Worlds Fair Century of Progress Homes. These homes were were designed as prototypes for the future of residential living. They were moved from Chicago to the dunes by barge and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Lunch
A delicious lunch will be provided for you to enjoy before you begin your journey back.
Return to Chicago
After lunch, get driven back to Chicago. You'll arrive between 4-5pm on Sunday, and you'll be able to collect your bike and bags from the drop off location.
What to Expect
While generally flat, you may encounter some gentle hills, particularly near the dunes. Expect tailwinds and crosswinds are during this ride.
This tour is perfect for beginners who enjoy moderate distances and terrain. When booking, riders will have the ability to select the speed that best fits them. Keep in mind the longer the distance the slower pace you should select.
All food and lodging will be included in the trip price. Riders need to come prepared with all necessary gear included in our packing list. Luggage transportation each way and transport of your bike back to Chicago is included. Our support vehicle will be available for any of the circumstances highlighted in our safety packet.
Check out the resources page for frequently asked questions. We also encourage you to reach out with any concerns using our contact form.
Al & Sally’s Motel
