Dunes Dash 5k
ST
From Save the Dunes
- Date Sat 30th May 2026
- Time 8:00AM CDT
- Location Gary, Indiana
- Price $16.90 - $32.80
- Races 2 races
- Distances 5km, 1 Mile
Event summary
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the Dunes Dash 5K, taking place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the stunning West Beach in Gary, Indiana. Hosted by the passionate team at Save the Dunes, this exciting event invites participants to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Indiana Dunes National Park while supporting vital conservation efforts.
The Dunes Dash 5K features a challenging course that winds through sandy, hilly trails with stairs and elevation changes, making it a unique adventure for runners and walkers of all levels. Additionally, there's a 1-mile Kids Fun Run, providing a fantastic opportunity for younger participants to engage with the dunes in a fun and supportive environment. Every registration contributes to Save the Dunes’ mission of protecting natural areas and ensuring equitable access to this iconic landscape. Awards will be presented across various categories, including Overall Male & Female winners and age group finishers. Don’t forget that Indiana Dunes National Park passes are required for entry, which can be easily purchased at the gate or during race registration. Join us for a day of fitness, fun, and environmental advocacy at the Dunes Dash 5K!
The Dunes Dash 5K features a challenging course that winds through sandy, hilly trails with stairs and elevation changes, making it a unique adventure for runners and walkers of all levels. Additionally, there's a 1-mile Kids Fun Run, providing a fantastic opportunity for younger participants to engage with the dunes in a fun and supportive environment. Every registration contributes to Save the Dunes’ mission of protecting natural areas and ensuring equitable access to this iconic landscape. Awards will be presented across various categories, including Overall Male & Female winners and age group finishers. Don’t forget that Indiana Dunes National Park passes are required for entry, which can be easily purchased at the gate or during race registration. Join us for a day of fitness, fun, and environmental advocacy at the Dunes Dash 5K!
Organiser's Description
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 Indianas most iconic landscapes while supporting the ongoing protection and advocacy of the Indiana dunes, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding natural areas.
The 5K course winds through sandy, hilly trails with stairs and elevation changes, making it a rewarding challenge for runners and walkers alike. While the course is considered moderate to strenuous, its designed to be approachable for anyone ready to take on a fun, unique trail experience beyond a traditional road race.
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.
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 will be presented to:
Overall Male & Female, Masters (40+) Male & Female &
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 may be added on for $25 with registrations received before May 1, 2026.
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.
The 5K course winds through sandy, hilly trails with stairs and elevation changes, making it a rewarding challenge for runners and walkers alike. While the course is considered moderate to strenuous, its designed to be approachable for anyone ready to take on a fun, unique trail experience beyond a traditional road race.
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.
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 will be presented to:
Overall Male & Female, Masters (40+) Male & Female &
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 may be added on for $25 with registrations received before May 1, 2026.
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.
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West Beach, 376 North County Line Road, Gary, 46403, IN, United States
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Dunes Dash 5k
