Indiana Dunes 2023

While still in bliss mode from having toes in the sand and waves crashing in front of me, I'm happy to share my most recent getaway to the Indiana Dunes. I'm here this time to join a behind-the-scenes tour of Pinhole Bog & Upland Trail!

I tried to visit the bogs - and see the carnivorous plants - on my 2021 trip, but the event sold out. This time, I specifically took time off work to get to see them. I've made several unsuccessful attempts at keeping Venus Fly Traps alive, and I'm currently nursing one I purchased in March. Fingers are crossed I pick up a few tips from the professionals! Here are two of the cool plants from the bogs.

Carnivorous Sun Dews

Carnivorous Pitcher Plants

I also used my Yew Dell Membership to visit a reciprocal garden while in the neighborhood, the Friendship Botanical Garden. They had a fun international section, and I naturally picked the Scotland garden as my fave.

I discovered some delish food on this run:

Smoky's BBQ and my favorite burnt ends.

Musashi Japanese Restaurant for udon soup and tempura veggies.

Peggy Sue's Diner with Route 66 mural surrounding the dining room. I had a tasty BLT.

This is my third trip to the Dunes, with a different focus each time. Hopefully, one of these inspire you to make the trip. There's still more for me to experience, and I'll definitely be back!

Click here for my 2019 post.

In 2011, I completed the Three Dune Challenge, and made a point of visiting all of the beaches. 

And, for clarity, Indiana Dunes is both an Indiana State Park, as well as a National Park. Each entity requires separate admission. Keep this in mind when you're making your plans!