This Hiking Trail Is the Best Way to Experience a Full Moon in Indiana

In the hushed darkness of night, the vastness of Lake Michigan is almost unending. A star-studded sky stretches across the horizon with no end in sight. Like an ocean that lost its way from one coast to the next, the sprawling Great Lake offers abundant opportunities for stargazing. Dreamy, full moon nights along its shores are unparalleled—especially in a place like Indiana Dunes National Park along the Central Avenue Beach Trail.

Despite its glistening night skies, Indiana Dunes is not a Dark Sky Park. Interestingly enough, however, the town of Beverly Shores, which is surrounded on three sides by the national park, is a Dark Sky City. Perhaps one day Indiana Dunes will get its designation. For now, stargazers will just have to enjoy it as it is.

Away from the harsh lights of nearby metropolises, the sky is free. Although you can see Chicago across the water, an ever-present reminder of nearby places that drown out the sky. The beauty of Central Avenue Beach Trail, other than its easy meandering paths, is that it puts you front and center on the lake. Guided by the shimmering full moon, you can walk the length of the beach on this path, admiring the view or simply enjoying the sound of lapping waters.

At only 1.7 miles, this trail is a low-effort hike for a high-reward, full moon night (or any night). Indiana Dunes is open until 11 p.m., so there is no need to rush the journey. However, it is important to keep in mind that much of this trail is sandy beach. Another thing to remember, especially if you venture out during cooler weather, is that it gets breezy along the lake.

Beyond the imposing dunes and soft sand, you also walk through some of the park's wooded areas. Under such a starry sky, you may even spot some of the many, many resident critters that live here. Though you will not enjoy viewing the plant life as much in the dark, the cover of night offers ample opportunity for the park's nocturnal nature to come alive.

You may hear a raccoon keeping an eye on you from an unseen tree, chittering in the distance. Or you could spot one of the park's seven bat species darting to and fro, munching on mosquitos that would otherwise chew on you. If you're lucky, you might even see a flying squirrel. People are often surprised to learn that flying squirrels live in the Midwest; but we have plenty of the non-flying kind, so it makes sense to me: We are a squirrely bunch.

Wherever you decide to plant yourself near the beachfront trail for stargazing, get comfortable. Bring your favorite camping chair and a blanket. Break out that long-buried knowledge of constellations you once had. Sure, it will be harder to see them all when the moon takes up so much of the sky that night, but it's worth a shot. I know at least for me, as a star-starved Chicagoan, any star viewing is a treat.