Away from her biking adventures, Marianne works at a local high school, helping students with math, and enjoys gardening, crocheting, photography, and travel.

She enjoys uncovering the region's natural and historical offerings on her bike, relishing the unique views, exercise, and wind therapy it brings. The author, Marianne Lee, is a lifelong resident of northwest Indiana and a South Shore Ambassador. In the event that parking at Wolf Lake is unavailable due to music festivals, free parking is available across the street from Grindhouse on 119th St. Further, a beautiful Heron fountain located near the 'Welcome to Whiting' sign added more charm to the expedition. Side excursions in Whiting offered a chance to pedal around and visit attractions such as the Shrage house, an old historical mansion with beautiful gardens and a grotto, and various shops and restaurants along 119th St.Īdding to the fun, there's a pierogi photo opportunity featuring two large dancing pierogies, a tribute to the annual Pierogi Fest held every July. The journey resumed with a trail that passed Lake George and went over several bike bridges back to the Wolf Lake parking lot. After covering 20 miles, a stop at Whiting's ice cream shop for a refreshing watermelon paleta, and an iced tea at Grindhouse on 119th St., provided a much-needed break.

There, bikers can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Michigan, a pond filled with large goldfish, pink lily pads, and a walking bridge. The bike ride then proceeded back to Whiting, passing Whihala Beach and ending up at Lakefront Park. An extension trail led to the south side of Chicago, specifically Calumet Park, which provided a fantastic photo opportunity at the Illinois-Indiana state line.

The journey continued towards the Horseshoe Casino sign and across the bridge near the Hammond Marina. A recent biking adventure started at Wolf Lake Park, with its free admission, ample parking and a scenic loop around the lake, including a unique trail section that sits in the middle of the lake. Exploring northwest Indiana by bike offers an exciting way to experience the region's many well-maintained trails.

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