Traveling Ted is a blog that takes readers along on my adventures hiking, canoeing, skiing, and international backpacking. Many blogs focus on one aspect of backpacking, but I tackle both the outdoor adventure side and international exploration as well.

Sharing is caring!

The thermometer hit a balmy 80 degrees on Sunday in Chicago and for a day we skipped from spring to summer in April.  This of course will not last, but it gave Midwesterners a thirst for summer, beaches, and water.  The best place to swim locally where there are adventure travel opportunities is at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the Indiana Dunes State Park.

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is the closest federally owned park land to Chicago.  It is 60 miles away and just east of Gary, Indiana.  There are some great trails in the area that one can hike in order to build up a sweat for a nice swim in Lake Michigan.  Another perk is the beaches offer a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline when clear.

In honor of the first hot day of summer (I mean spring) this week’s photo goes to the West Beach at the National Lakeshore.  There is a $6.00 fee for cars to enter, so be sure to bring a little cash.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Stay tuned,

TT