Things To Do Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore covers 111 square miles of beaches, forests, and hills. Explore the landscape on the park's 100-mile trail network, which is open to hikers, bikers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers. Try surfing, swimming, and paddling on Lake Michigan, or head to one of the nearby inland lakes and rivers for calmer water. Sleeping Bear Dunes is spectacular in the fall when the changing leaves create a wonderland of color; in the winter, sparkling white snow adds a fairytale feeling to the quiet forests and beaches.
Hiking Trails
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Bay View Trail
As its name suggests, the Bay View Trail offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan. In the spring, summer, and fall, come for a comfortable hike through the rolling hills. Along the way, you can see the historic Charles Olsen farm and the Port Oneida school. In the winter, the National Park Service grooms the trails for cross-country skiing. With a variety of different loops, you can create a lovely hike of any distance. To access this network by wheelchair, get in touch with the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes; this group offers free use of an electric track wheelchair to visitors.
Location
Bay View trailhead, High Trail, Maple City, MI 49664
Length
8 Miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Shipwreck of the Morazan Trail
Take a boat over to South Manitou Island, and take the Shipwreck of the Morazan Trail. This path runs to a viewpoint that overlooks a partially submerged shipwreck. It capsized in 1960 and is now visible above the surface. As you hike, keep an eye out for the island's enormous cedar trees.
Location
South Manitou Island
Length
5 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Empire Bluff Trail
Enjoy some of the most beautiful views in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the Empire Bluff Trail. It travels through a beech and maple forest, taking you through a hilly landscape to a point overlooking Lake Michigan. From the top of the bluff, you can see for miles down the coast.
Location
Empire Bluff trailhead, Wilco Rd, Empire, MI 49630
Length
1.5 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Dune Climb
The highlight of any trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the legendary Dune Climb. The hike to the top of the enormous sand dunes is challenging, but the return trip is fast and exciting.
Location
6748 S Dune Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
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Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Stretching for 7.4 miles along the coast, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive takes you to some of the most breathtaking vistas in the park. Allow plenty of time; you'll want to stop along the way to take photos and to explore the dunes.
Location
S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI 49630
Museums
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Port Oneida Farms Heritage Center
Learn about the pioneers who settled in Michigan at the turn of the century at the Port Oneida Farms Heritage Center. Here, you can explore the Charles and Hattie Olsen Farmhouse, discover the culture and history of the local Native American tribes, and walk through the stunning farmland.
Location
3164 W Harbor Hwy, Maple City, MI 49664
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Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum explores the history of the Sleeping Bear Point U.S. Life-Saving Station and the sailors who braved the Great Lakes. Learn what it takes to navigate the often-dangerous shoreline, and find out how the Life-Saving Station helped rescue sailors from wrecked ships. If possible, attend a Lyle Gun demonstration to find out how the rescue teams shot a rope out to a capsized ship and ferried the crew back to the beach using a breeches buoy.
Location
Sleeping Bear Dunes Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak
Discover the wonderful world of lake surfing with a stop at Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak. Whether you want to paddle the local waterways or try surfing on Lake Michigan, this friendly spot can help you get started.
Location
10228 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
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Grocer's Daughter Chocolate
With a mouth-watering selection of chocolates, candies, and other locally made foods, Grocer's Daughter Chocolate is the perfect place to pick up treats for your camping trip. Most items are made in-house, so you can try freshly made truffles, clusters, and more.
Location
Michigan 22, 11590 S Lacore St, Empire, MI 49630
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Cherry Republic
Set in a stunning building with vaulted wooden ceilings, Cherry Republic resembles a Viking lodge. Inside, you'll find Michigan-made cherry treats, art, and souvenirs.
Location
6026 A, 5109, S Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
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Joe's Friendly Tavern
True to its name, Joe's Friendly Tavern is a welcoming spot to grab a beer and a casual meal. The menu features burgers, sandwiches, and salads; in the mornings, make sure to check out the fantastic breakfast options.
Location
11015 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
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Little Finger Eatery
If you're in the mood for a quick meal, head to the adorable Little Finger Eatery. This quaint, cottage-style eatery serves sandwiches, wraps, and salads in a colorful dining room.
Location
10213 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
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Blu
For a special-occasion meal with stunning views of Lake Michigan, head to Blu. With elegant options such as tuna tartare and lamb chops, this is a lovely spot for a romantic evening. Get a table on the patio or near the window for the best view of the sunset.
Location
5705 S Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636