Description

This hiking-only trail system "reveals the rich natural diversity that has drawn people to this area for over 10,000 years," according to the [NPS](https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/bc16.htm).

Easy-to-moderate in difficulty, this hike takes a couple of hours to complete and offers stops at the historic Bailly Homestead, Chellberg Farm, and Mnoké Prairie.

Most of the hike winds along a well-maintained trail through hardwood forests "dominated by maple, beech, basswood, and oak," while a scenic boardwalk leads visitors through wet bottomlands. A National Historic Landmark, the Bailly Homestead "played a role in the development of the Calumet Region of northern Indiana" in the early 1800s.

Built by Joseph Bailly, "an independent trader in the extensive fur-trading network that spread from Montreal to Louisiana," the site served as an important stop for travelers and was noted particularly for its "vernacular architectural features and construction types." [Source](https://www.nps.gov/indu/learn/historyculture/bailly_homestead.htm) The trailhead for this hike is located off Mineral Springs Road in Porter, IN.

Potable water and restrooms are available year-round, and the parking lot is open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.

No fee is required for this hike and the parking lot is suitable for larger vehicles, including busses.

Leashed and well-behaved pets are also allowed.

The now-abandoned Dune Acres Station to the north also offers access to this loop via the Brickyard Trail.

For a shorter 1.1-mile hike, follow the Bailly/Chellberg (Inner) Loop instead.

This easy stroll shouldn't take more than 45 minutes and begins/ends at the same trailhead. Sources: https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/bc16.htm https://www.indianadunes.com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventures/little-calumet-river-trail/