Enjoy An Unexpectedly Magical Hike On This Little-Known Trail In Indiana
By Tori Jane|Published October 02, 2023
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Tori Jane
Author
Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
What I’m about to say might just amaze some: Indiana has no shortage of epic hiking trails. It’s true: you don’t need to be in the Rocky Mountains, the Appalachians, or any mountains at all, really, to have a truly rugged outdoor adventure. Enter the Coffee Creek Long Loop hike, an easy, photogenic delight that hikers of all skill levels and experience can enjoy. Could it be the best hike near Chesterton, Indiana? I think yes – as long as you’re ready for some bushwhackin’.
The Coffee Creek Long Loop is an easy adventure that often goes overlooked even by the locals.
It's a lesser-known hidden gem that holds lots of unexpectedly charming twists, turns, and surprises; not to mention its place in the list of the best places to spot wildlife in Indiana.
At just three miles long and with very little elevation change, it's an easy hike - which makes its relative quietness all the sweeter, if you ask me.
If you visit on the weekends during the day, you're more likely to have other hikers to greet along the way (though not many). Visit in the early morning during the week, though, and you might just have the place to yourself.
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Of course, there's plenty to marvel at along the way no matter when you show up.
You never know what kind of birds you'll encounter, and what other wildlife calls the area home. If you're a fan of wildflowers, come out in the spring and summer and you'll be amazed by them. Come out in the fall for some truly jaw-dropping autumn color.
Honestly, these alone are probably worth the entire hike, if we're being serious here, and coming out at any other time other than the summer is another way to guarantee you have it to yourself. This trail is ideal for just about everyone; it's quite easy, and it's outrageously beautiful.
The trail surface varies from asphalt to gravel, brick, dirt, and even the occasional boardwalk and/or bridge.
You'll also encounter plenty of water, from rivers and streams to a showy pond with a fountain you're sure to love. The whole trek is super peaceful, and the little stopping points along the way make it all worth it.
Pack good bug spray, and wear good shoes - and never forget to bring the water along, even if temperatures outside are nice and cool.
For a map, more photos, and detailed reviews by other hikers, be sure to check out the official Coffee Creek Long Loop page on AllTrails. Get the perfect pair of hiking boots from our friends at The North Face, too!
What’s your all-time favorite hiking trail in Indiana? Is it challenging? Let me know in the comments – I love to hear about all your favorite secret spots.
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