By Beth Rudnick Feature photo: Creek Ridge County Park
Even though summer is officially over and the days are growing shorter, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy our beautiful area. LaPorte County Parks provide lovely and serene prospects for enjoying the beauty of fall with it changing colors.
An afternoon tour of LaPorte County’s Parks can start with Creek Ridge County Park. From 421 south out of Michigan City, before the I-94 overpass, turn left on West 400 North. Creek Ridge is about 3 miles on the left. Ample picnic shelters and an easy, very brief walk to Trail Creek access highlight this free county park. Also, Creek Ridge is again hosting the popular Pioneer Days on September 28 and 29, with wagon rides and lots of activities for the kids. Your leashed dog is welcome.
A little off the beaten path is Red Mill County Park. From 421 south out of Michigan City, take a soft left on Holmesville Road and watch for the north entrance. This quiet park is a smaller and often unpopulated but boasts well-maintained and easy walking trails and nice views of the marsh. Runners take note: Red Mill is hosting the Black Cat Strut, a 5K run/walk to honor Buddy, a beloved black cat adopted from the Independent Cat Society. Part of the proceeds from the October 27th Race for Buddy go to benefit the Independent Cat Society. Registration information can be found at www.catsociety.org.
Red Mill County Park
Getting back on 421 heading south just past Purdue Northwest, watch for the signs on your right for Bluhm County Park on 3855 S 1100 W, Westville. This is a larger park with over 90 acres, a doggie playground and longer, more rigorous walking trails.
End your afternoon by visiting downtown Michigan City for a refreshing bite at Chickpea Fresh Mediterranean on 5th Street – with a host of meat-free options, Fiddlehead on north Franklin, which is devoted to employing veterans and supporting veterans’ programs with its proceeds, or check out our full list of restaurants in our Cool Digs directory which has something for everyone!
“Fall” in love with beautiful LaPorte County!
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