Michigan Bucket List: Sleeping Bear Dunes

07.10.2025 | 3 min read

Michigan is known for its beautiful beaches, and along the famous Lake Michigan lies Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

This summer, take your family on a trip to see the amazing views, forested trails and freshwater lakes to experience this part of our beautiful state.

Climb the dunes

Experience the iconic Dune Climb — this is a steep adventure that requires precautions but one that allows you to see the stunning views of Glen Lake. Be prepared if you would like to climb barefoot on hot days and stay attentive as the dunes may be more strenuous than they look. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and good footwear, especially if you intend to adventure the full 3.5-mile hike from the top of the Dune Climb to and from Lake Michigan. Typically, this round trip lasts about three to four hours, depending on your condition and the weather.

Explore scenic hiking trails in the dunes

The park features more than 100 miles of easy walks to challenging dune hikes, but all provide endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.

Pyramid Point Trail: This 2.7-miletrail leads to a high, panoramic view of Manitou Passage, the Manitou Islands and Lake Michigan, which is half a mile from the trailhead.
Empire Bluff Trail: This moderate 1.5-mile hike is accompanied by views of Lake Michigan from high above the bluff.
Bay View Trail: Divided into loops, this 8-mile trail passes through meadows, maple beach forest and ridges with lake views.

To stay safe on your hike:

Carry water and bug spray.
Wear sun protection – many trails have minimal shade.
Watch for changing weather near the lake.
Stay on marked trails to avoid dune erosion.

Bike the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Bring your bike to ride along a 22-mile paved trail that connects Glen Arbor, Empire and key park landmarks to see forested scenery and lakeshore views. This is a moderately challenging trail but has options for visitors who want to go on a leisurely walk or jog along the path.

Take a ferry to the Manitou Islands

Take a ferry from Fishtown Dock located in Leland to explore the Manitou Islands, which are also filled with hiking trails, an old lighthouse, shipwrecks and dune ecosystems. There are also opportunities for overnight camping or day trips.

Visit scenic overlooks and drives

Don’t miss these iconic views during your visit:

Stargazing

Being farther away from the city, there is minimal light pollution; the dunes are a stellar place to stargaze and see shooting stars.

Visit surrounding beaches

Sleeping Bear Dunes is home to several beaches where you can relax, swim or even enjoy a game of volleyball.

Esch beach is combined with the Otter Creek tributary and Lake Michigan, which creates a unique blend of freshwater streams for all water activities.

Here are more beaches to explore on the shore:

Beach safety

Stay safe at the beach – by watching for rip currents and following posted safety signs.

Camping

Reserve a campsite at Platte River or D.H. Day campgrounds; they include a wide range of year-round amenities with ready access to Lake Michigan for a wide variety of camping styles.

Maritime Museum

Built in 1901, this museum highlights direct exhibits involving lifesaving services, the U.S. coast and shipping operations on the Great Lakes. They have a replica captain's wheel and a pathway to look out at Lake Michigan.

Image: Getty Images

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