Dunes Dash 5k

🏞️ Race Overview

Experience the Indiana Dunes like never before at the Dunes Dash 5K, hosted by Save the Dunes at scenic West Beach in the Indiana Dunes National Park. This annual event invites participants to explore one of Northwest Indiana’s most iconic landscapes while supporting the ongoing protection and advocacy of the Indiana dunes, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding natural areas.

🏃‍♂️ Course Details

• Course Type: The 5K course winds through sandy, hilly trails with stairs and elevation changes.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous, making it a rewarding challenge for runners and walkers alike.
• Accessibility: Designed to be approachable for anyone ready to take on a fun, unique trail experience beyond a traditional road race.

👶 Kiddos Welcome

A 1-mile Kids Fun Run is also offered, giving younger participants a chance to engage with the dunes in a fun and supportive setting.

🌳 Support Save the Dunes

Every registration helps Save the Dunes continue its work protecting natural areas, advocating for responsible land stewardship, and ensuring equitable access to the Indiana Dunes for our community and visitors.

🏅 Awards

• Categories: Overall Male & Female, Masters (40+) Male & Female.
• Age Groups: Top 3 Male & Female finishers in each age group: 13 & Under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

👕 T-Shirts

T-shirts may be added on for $25 with registrations received before May 1, 2026.

🌳 Park Pass Requirement

Please note that Indiana Dunes National Park passes are required for entry. Passes may be purchased at the gate, in advance through Save the Dunes during race registration or through the National Park website www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/fees.htm. If you require a no-cost park pass or additional accessibility information, please reach out to office@savedunes.org. Note: National Park passes are not available to purchase online through runsignup.com without the purchase of a race registration.

📦 Packet Pick-Up Details

Coming soon.

🗓️ Event Date

The Dunes Dash 5K will take place on May 30, 2026, at West Beach, Gary, IN.

🔗 Registration Link

Please visit the following link to register: Dunes Dash 5K Registration.