“Hike master” - AARP Magazine

These reviews are here simply to show that YOU , an army of one, can get people hiking and make a difference on hike #1.

“Ron, if it wasn't for you when I was on medical leave and our countless walks exploring multiple areas of The Dunes and beyond, Nature is Medicine and you are the Doctor. Never will forget when we found the secret hidden car.” - Kammi

If it wasn’t for you and your nutritional teachings to me I could never be a prolific hiker! And your work ethic is a benchmark standard, and if in a foolish moment I think about scaling back I think of you and, “I break the rear view mirrors off and slam the pedal to the metal, windows down!” - Ron

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Ron is an exceptional human being. He is so knowledgeable about everything nature and hike related. I learn so much every time I’m out on the trails with him. Besides his vast knowledge, he is truly one of the most polite, considerate, and kind gentlemen I have met. I just feel safe and jolly when I’m around him. Everyone on his hikes always does, and it is an absolute pleasure to be in his company. Hiking is great because of the exercise, the forest bathing effect, and the connection with nature. But having Ron lead the way with his knowledge, enthusiasm, and familiarity is just an extra benefit and makes the hiking experience even better. He is really a gem. I am grateful for Ron Seman, Sage of the Dunes. - R.Z.

Thank you! You have been one of my most diehard hikers and always ready to hike on a moments notice. You are mature like 50 years beyond your age. You made La Porte another home town for me. - Ron

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Ron is the best! From incredible hikes to engaging conversations about the history of the dunes and the surrounding area, time with him is always enriching. His love for God shines through in his words and actions. Ron’s dedication, availability, and genuine presence make every hike together feel's intentional and meaningful. He is a truly well-rounded man and an absolute pleasure to accompany him!! I hope to retire one day and take over for him on the dunes. God Bless Ron! - Dawn, DawnsUpKeep.Com

Every time I hike at Mt. Baldy I remember our time of prayer and conversation … and YOUR work ethic!!! - Ron

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“Ron Seman is amazing. He is a very eclectic man that just enjoys the outdoors thoroughly. He wants everybody in the world to join him in this endeavor. If you are looking for a way to improve yourself, enjoy yourself, get out of an addiction, get outside more, connect with others, and learn about the biodiversity of this beautiful Indiana Dunes, find Ron Seman” - Maureen

Your enthusiasm is beyond contagious. So glad California lost you to 219! - Ron

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“Wonderful hike with wonderful people. You truly get to enjoy nature the way it was intended.” - Dominika - Facebook Ours Baked Goods

Where could I possibly start? Your encouragement has motivated me beyond compare. You hold the record for being the most long term hiker and that is aMaZiNg. Thank you for serving our country protecting us and serving our country with the best baked goods, of Polish flare or not! You are not allowed on a hike unless you come with a bag of sugar laden sweets! - Ron

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Meeting Ron was an unexpected gift and an experience I will never forget. I had no idea I was stepping into a life-changing hike. His knowledge of the dunes is unparalleled, the trails are stunning, and his sense of timing creates something truly special. I will always be grateful to Ron and the fellow hikers who make every hike so meaningful. - Elyse

After your first text message I thought I can’t wait for the conversations we are going to have about health and living on the trail. WOW! You did not disappoint and you keep coming back with family and friends. And that North Face guy must come back with you every time and we got to get that big private hiking event planned! - Ron

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Thank you for giving your time and sharing the true meaning of Christmas with so many. - Jane

You are very welcome. My ultimate hope is that what I teach may lead someone to a better understanding of our Creator. - Ron

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I’ve always enjoyed hiking, often solo. Ron’s invitation to join him on a group hike through a post on social media was a game-changer. These hikes have been incredibly inspiring, both physically and mentally. It’s a great accomplishment to know that you’ve positively influenced another person’s life. Sage of the Dunes accomplishes this by imparting his knowledge of the advantages of spending time in nature for both mental and physical well-being. - Dawn of L.

I will never forget the first time you came on a Wolfe Pack hike telling us you are here because of my social media post nor the story you wrote about the Sage of the Dunes. You have an unstoppable drive and you have put in more miles driving to hikes than anyone. - Ron

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“Ron is one-of-a-kind when it comes to organizing hikes! When you hike with Ron it’s best to leave your expectations at your vehicle and enjoy all that Ron facilitates, which is a wealth of information and comradely with a it of sarcasm sprinkled in! You’ll leave a happy hiker!” - Kelly

Thank you for hiking with me on what is now called the Monster Challenge of 19.2 miles, with a reel feel of 34 miles. Thanks for making me laugh with you and not at you. Thank you for not being braggadocios by putting a 26.2 mile sticker on your car - Ron

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“Do ya know, as an adult, you can go on field trips? Fancy a "rain or shine" Triple Bog Dare summer puddle stomping adventure in your rain jacket for 5 hours? Prefer a warm, relaxing stroll on the beach in search of beach glass? Take a hike. Get lost. Tune in. Come join kind people for engaging conversations and connections with people and NATURE. Ron Seman's hikes are all-inclusive, meaning they are FREE to EVERYONE. Ron truly 'practices what he preaches,' and he believes that EVERYONE benefits, mentally and physically, from NATURE. He is devoted to removing barriers for those who have limited access and really fosters a sense of community in nature. If you are thinking of joining, I Triple Bog Dare you! You won't regret it, whether it's a solo, curated hike or a group adventure, you are bound to feel better afterwards - take the first step...then another...and keep going...you got this. - Tiffany

Thank you Tiffany. You have taught me so much about botany and continue to each time! - Ron

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“My wife and I met Ron about 5 years ago and been on a ton of hikes with him. Ron is the best hiking guide in the Indiana Dunes National Park. I can’t wait to go on another hike with him.” - Neal

I can remember the first time we hiked with your children at the Red Mill County Park in La Porte. I knew you would be back and I would be thankful. Keep coming and I know you do even in the middle of winter! - Ron

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“I am so grateful and thankful for Ron and his hiking tours. His knowledge and enthusiasm and entertainment has brighten my world and love for hiking. Ron and his hikes has helped me not only heal physically but mentally as well. Forever grateful and appreciative of Ron.” - Debbie

Debbie you have always been excited to hike, reliably the first to arrive, and an encourager of me which helps me encourage others. Thank you! - Ron

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“Ron knows the dunes like the back of his hand, it’s incredible! He’s also full of endless wisdom it seems. Thank you for being patient with the slower people and the distracted children <3! We love going outside with you :) ” - RAE

WOW do I love hiking with you, Theo, and Max!!! For whatever reasons others bailed out and didn’t show upon which allowed us to have the trails many times to ourselves. On my website is a permanently displayed photo of Theo and Max on a downhill of Trail 8. BUT WAIT there is more. The darkness was across the northern part of Lake Michigan. We walked quickly south and east back to the campground. We heard the wind * * * ROAR * * * and we thought for sure we would all be killed because it was some freak tornado. IR WAS LOUD~!!! But we got to your vehicle and got in. Do you remember as we drove out of the Indiana Dunes State Park every inch of the Wilson Road was covered with leaves, as if they were snowflakes. wow GOOD times? Alive and well. Ready and waiting.

- Ron P.S. I can’t wait until Theo plays in Carnegie Hall!

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“Ron takes hiking in the woods to another level. It is a treat for all your senses as he points out sights, sounds, smells, things to touch and perhaps taste as well as historical facts along the path. The woods come alive with Ron leading the way.” - Debbi

You aren’t blowing smoke! You pay attention. Thank you for your attention to this matter of nature. -Ron

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“Walking with Ron is always educational, interesting and lots of laughs.” - Kathy

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“Ron is the the most innovative tour guide and hiking coach I know, when it comes to hiking the Dunes! I have been on many hikes with Ron and have always had a great time while working out and exploring a new horizon every time!!!”- Ellen

Ellen I can still remember the first time we hiked with your small dog (not called Toto). It was from the Nature Center of the Indiana Dunes State Park. Since then we had so many hikes. I remember one in particular where a group of us went in the cold to Sunset Hill Farms and then went to Ronda’s relative’s bakery. HenzesBakery.com - Ron

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“When someone says to you, “let me show you something beautiful. Put on some hiking boots and comfortable clothes and let’s walk through it together to share the moment.” And they do it for free…. You just say Thank you!”- Jennifer

Jennifer thank you for all that you have done to make the Wolfe Pack such an incredible success. For those that want to join, they meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6:30 AM from the Pavilion at the Indiana Dunes State Park - Ron

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“Dunes expert” - Chesterton Tribune

Miss you —- Chesterton Tribune! - Ron

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“But you ARE an extremist!

Extremely informative

Extremely giving

Extremely friendly

...I am forever grateful for having met you, Extreme Sage of the Dunes 😉” - Christa

Christa thank you for all that you have done to organize Chicago hikers to come with us and to be the best Chicago hiker to have come with us! - Ron

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“Indiana Master Naturalist” - Panorama Now

Thank you for providing information that no one else cares enough about to research and publish! - Ron

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“He brings our awareness to nature using all of our senses and by pointing out flowers, bird sounds, the quietness, the sounds of the waves, and the scents of the trails.” I became an Indiana Master Naturalist after hiking with Ron. - Josephine

Thank you and your husband. I remember how you tortured him on his first hike with Indiana Dunes Hiking. - Ron

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After hiking with Ron she was inspired to become an Indiana Master Naturalist and volunteer at the Indiana Dunes State Park. “ Even though I lived in Chesterton over 20 years, I didn’t know about these opportunities.” - Shelly

Thank you Shelly and for your proposal for canines & the Dunes. - Ron

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Inspired by Seman’s happy healthy outlook, Lana quit smoking and lost 32 pounds after venturing out on hikes. “I began hiking with him three or four times a week. Before that I probably only hiked five times total in my whole life.” - Lana

Thank you Lana for your first painting! Love it!! It is proudly displayed in my office!!!! AND YOU DID IT! You led so many friends, family, and neighbors! YES!!! - Ron

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“It’s kind of like a social thing. You run into some interesting people on the hikes. Everyone has a story.” - Rudy

Thank you Rudy for miraculously finding my key and refusing the $500 reward (or was it $5)! - Ron

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Cathy enjoyed the camaraderie of Seman’s hiking groups so much so that she requested a group hike. “Winter is depressing for me but the hiking group has really helped alleviate that. That connection with other people is a big thing for me.” - Cathy

I remember the forest on fire from the sun just east of the Trail 2 Boarddwalk at sunset. - Ron

The above five quotes are from an article entitled, “Duneland resident leads winter hikes through the Dunes”, appearing in the CHESTERTON TRIBUNE on 1/20/22.

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After hiking with Ron she was moved to become an Indiana Master Naturalist and volunteer at the Indiana Dunes State Park. - Susan

THANK YOU for the AARP article Susan and all the fun hikes! - Ron

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“Indiana Master Naturalist” - Porter County Parks and Recreation

Thank you for letting me use Sunset Hill Farm County Park for my FULL MOON HIKES and for the veteran events and for DARK IN THE PARK, the REVENGE of the DAFFODILS at Brincka Cross Gardens!!! - Ron

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“Our first time taking a hike with this group was Friday, I brought 3 teenage girls with also. All 4 of us had such an amazing time, Ron was so welcoming and knowledgeable it really was a wonderful memory for us all. Thank you Ron for your knowledge and being the person you are, we will be joining you again.” - Danielle

You are a fantastic and engaged listener Danielle, and your group was so nice. - Ron

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“We need to make it to one of your hikes 😊” - Lydia

You may have already Lydia! There has been at least one “Lydia”. - Ron

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“Sage of the Dunes… AARP got it right. You keep being you and I'll continue to look forward to our chance encounters.” - Mark

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“Extreme Ron, YOU got this!!!! I’ve only been on one walk with your guidance. I’m here to say, you’re the best walking encyclopedia.” - Laurie

Remember 90% of what I say is true! After the hike Google it to find out what they 10% is all about. - Ron

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“Ron is amazing and a wealth of information! Keep up the great work!” - Judy

Sometimes I am a poverty of information… like how to ruin a fun hike. - Ron

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“Okay now I want to go on one of your hikes!” - Z.

YOU BETTER Z or I am blocking you in 14 days! - Ron

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“I appreciate you, Ron! You help to make the world turn!” - Karen

You have been a great source of encouragement and pass my info on to the cool kids at the back of the class. - Ron

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“Indiana Dunes Hiking literally changed my life. I am in much better physical and mental health. I have been on many hikes and now just can’t get enough! Ron Seman is a selfless individual who devotes his time to improving the well being of others. We share God’s beauty on our hikes and have great conversation.” - Lana

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“I never thought making the decision to join 1 hike would have made such a positive impact on my life, with each hike my mind and body feels so much better. Not only do I enjoy hikes with our group I now adventure out by myself, something I would of never done without meeting Ron and the other amazing people that make up Indiana Dunes Hiking.” - Andrea

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