News

When: Saturday, July 21, 2012, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time

Where: Miller Woods Unit, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Lake County  Leader: Noel B. Pavlovic, U.S. Geological Survey

Trail Conditions: Mostly level with a few sandy dune climbs and one crossing on logs (will provide walking stick), about 2 miles long. Mosquitoes and other annoying insects may be prevalent. Poison ivy is occasional.

What To See: Walking forward in geological time across dune ridges toward Lake Michigan, we will have views of idyllic interdunal ponds and mesic black oak groves, savanna, and woodland. We may see the beginning blooming of Liatris, asters, and goldenrods, and even catch a glimpse of the federally threatened Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri). 

Directions: Park at the Douglas Environmental Center. From the south, take I-65 north and go east on I-80/94 (toward Detroit) for about 3 miles to the exit that heads north on IN 51.  (Whether heading east or west on I-80/94, near Lake Station in Lake County take the IN 51 exit and go north). IN 51 will quickly “T” with US 20; there turn left toward Miller. Continue west on US 20 for just over 1 mile and turn right onto Lake Street by the McDonalds. Proceed north through the town center of Miller for about 1/2 mile and, shortly after going under a railroad bridge, travel about 1/10th mile and turn right into the parking lot of the Douglas Center. Proceed around the loop and park on either side of the lot. Meet at the bench by the trail leading to the bridge over the road to the Center. 

Questions? Contact Noel Pavlovic at npavlovic@usgs.gov or 219-921-4743 by 20 July 2012. No RSVP required. We will hike rain or shine unless there are severe thunderstorms.