MI Bucket List: Things to Do in Glen Arbor, Michigan
Lindsay Knake
| 3 min read
On the coast of Lake Michigan, the tiny village of Glen Arbor is a perfect place for a trip to Northern Michigan.
The tourist town is a few miles north of Sleeping Bear Dunes. With shops, restaurants and inns, Glen Arbor is a fun place for a late spring, summer or fall visit. The season opens in early May and goes through early November, depending on the weather.
Here’s what to know for a visit to Glen Arbor.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Noted as one of the most beautiful places in the United States, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to miles of sand dunes, sweeping bluffs, forests and trails. The iconic Dune Climb provides a beautiful view of Glen Lake, and you can also take a strenuous 3.5-mile roundtrip hike to Lake Michigan through the dunes. If you take on this challenge, make sure to prepare with water, snacks and sunscreen.
Pierce Stocking Drive takes you on a 7.4-mile trip through the park, which you can drive or bike. Take in the sights of Sleeping Bear at 12 different overlooks, including the 450-foot overview at the top of the bluffs. Pack a cooler and picnic and you can make a day of the park.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers more than 100 miles of trails for hiking and running, including sandy dune climbs and forested paths.
There are also sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, including Glen if you are looking for a day on the beach.
Hiking, running and biking in Glen Arbor
For those who like hiking or running, the Alligator Hill trail system is within walking distance of town. There are nine miles of wide trails that range from easy to moderate in difficulty. Alligator Hill has the profile of an alligator just above Glen Lake, which is visible from the main dune climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a paved path that runs from Empire to 20 miles north at the northern edge of the national park. Whether walking, running or biking, the trail is open year-round. If you don’t have bikes with you, there are several places in town to rent them for an active afternoon on the trail.
Paddling and boating in Glen Arbor
The Crystal River runs right through town, and you can rent kayaks or canoes to paddle down the clear waters. In Sleeping Bear Dunes, you can also rent watercraft, stand-up paddle boards or even rafts for a trip down the Platte River.
Local marinas also offer boat rentals or charter fishing on Lake Michigan.
Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and bug spray.
Shopping and dining in Glen Arbor
Glen Arbor is home to small shops, art galleries and restaurants. Home of the Cherry Republic, you can enjoy locally grown cherries and products made with cherries, or you can visit Boonedocks for outdoor dining on the large deck. The River Club Glen Arbor has outdoor seating, putt-putt and live music for a fun and family-friendly evening.
For lodging, you can stay in town or just outside town in charming inns and bed and breakfasts. Campers can stay at Sleeping Bear Dunes in the Platte River Campground or the rustic D.H. Day Campground along with other local options outside the park. The adventurous looking for a backpacking trip may enjoy trails in the White Pine Camp or on Manitou Island.
Glen Arbor provides a place for family summer trips or for those looking for an outdoor Michigan adventure.
Image: Getty Images
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