Pinhook Bog [Suggest Edits]

Description

Bogs like Pinhook are relics of our glacial past. Trapped in the pulverized clay and rock left behind by a melting glacier, Pinhook Bog began as a kettle lake. Cut off from ground water, Pinhook's water gradually became acidic. Sphagnum moss, tolerant of acidic waters, formed floating mats that eventually supported carnivorous plants like pitcher plants, and sundew, orchids like pink lady's slipper and ferns. Over time, blueberry and holly shrubs colonized this unique acidic bog, eventually giving way to larger trees like tamarack and red maple.

Short Walk: Restricted access. Access requires advanced approval and accompaniment by authorized staff. There are free ranger-led hikes on weekends in the summer and at other times throughout the year. Tour details can be obtained at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at (219) 395-1882. Call to confirm tour dates and times or check the park newspaper, The Singing Sands. You can also find tour dates on the park website at nps.gov/indu/index.htm or facebook.com/IndianaDunesNPS.

Family Friendly: Easy hike. Really unique plants to see and a boardwalk to walk out into the bog.

Gem Type: Viewpoint