SLEEPING BEAR DUNES

eping Bear Dunes Sle

NATIONAL LAKESHORE

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located along the northwest shores of Lake Michigan, is an American treasure. It is a must visit for all Michiganders for its:

- majestic lake vistas - sweeping dune panoramas - crystal clear rivers - emerald-colored inland lakes - islands - hiking trails over dunes and through hardwood forest

TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

The park comprises the Platte River District to the south and the Leelanau District to the north. In the middle are Empire, South Manitou Island and North Manitou Island.

This is in a remote part of Michigan where cell service is spotty. There are small markets and the occasional gas station but be prepared to bring most items from home.

The small village of Empire is home to the visitor’s center and is a great place to start your adventure.

The Platte River Campground is a lovely wooded campground with sites spaced far enough apart for privacy. There are hot showers and RV hookups. Reservations open six months prior to your visit’s start date.

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore 9922 W Front St, Empire

Dune Climb | 6748 S Dune Hwy, Glen Arbor

This is a giant sand dune to run up and down. It leads to a trail out to Lake Michigan.

For younger kids, avoid the hike and instead climb the dune to the lookout bench (left side of the dune) and be rewarded with Lake Michigan and Glen Lake views.

Empire Bluff Trail | Wilco Rd, Empire

It’s an out-and-back 1.5-mile hike that starts with a climb and then takes you over a rolling, wooded pathway. Once you reach the Lake Michigan overlook, there’s a boardwalk with great photo ops all around.

Scan to open the Sleeping Bear Dunes Guide