Miller Woods
Natural Areas: Miller Woods
Wetland. Click to enlarge
Much has changed here since I first visited many years ago. The Douglas Environmental Education Center is now open daily to any who care to visit (not just groups) and the trail system features a delightful out-and-back all the way to Lake Michigan. There are two joined loops right next to the Education Center that offer 0.5- and 0.9-mile options through open dune oak savanna and passing by and through wetland areas. If you only have time for a short walk, I recommend hiking the two loops as a figure eight so you can cross the boardwalk shortcut twice. The trail to the lake joins the western loop near its northwest corner; walking to the lake and back will add about 2.6 miles to your trip. There are small climbs but overall, the tread is easy. It passes numerous small wetlands and a gorgeous inland lake, all the while giving no visual hint of the industrial colossi nearby.
Trail Map
Click to enlarge
Directions
Lake County. From US 20 X IN 51, west 1.3 miles to Lake St, then north about 2/3 miles to a parking area on the right at the Paul Douglas Environmental Education Center. Cross the pedestrian bridge over Lake Street to the center and trails.
GPS: N 41 36.366 W 87 16.069
Facilities
None
Finder Sketch
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Nearby Natural Areas (miles)
Coulter Nature Preserve (3.5)
West Beach (3.7)
Tolleston Dunes (4.6)
Greiner Nature Preserve (5.7)
Cressmoor Prairie (5.8)
Bur Oak Nature Preserve (8.6)
Ivanhoe South Nature Preserve (8.6)
Little Calumet River Trail (10.8)
Cowles Bog (10.9)
Gibson Woods (13)
Indiana Dunes State Park (14)
Glenwood Dunes Trail (14.6)
Meadowbrook Nature Preserve (15.7)
Kemil Beach (16.1)
Great Marsh (16.5)
Hoosier Prairie (17)