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Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr · Empire, MI

Why you should go…

This self-guided drive winds through beech-maple forest and open dune country to a series of overlooks, including one that drops straight down to Lake Michigan from atop a perched dune. The Cottonwood Trail and a covered bridge are among the stops along the route.

  • #scenic drive
  • #overlooks
  • #dunes
  • #lake michigan

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Under $25

    Towering perched sand dunes climb straight up from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

    6.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Fishtown

    Free

    A cluster of weathered fishing shanties on the Leland River, still home to working charter boats.

    16 mi awayMore like this

  • Eat & Drink
    Local Gem

    Black Star Farms

    Under $25

    A Leelanau Peninsula winery and farm estate with tastings, a creamery, and an inn.

    21 mi awaySwitch it up: Eat & Drink

  • Theatre & Events
    Local Gem

    Interlochen Center for the Arts

    Under $25

    A renowned arts academy and summer festival campus hosting concerts under the pines.

    21 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Traverse City

    Free

    Northern Michigan's Cherry Capital, wrapped around Grand Traverse Bay with wineries and sandy beaches.

    23 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Grand Traverse Lighthouse

    Under $25

    An 1852 lighthouse at the tip of Leelanau Peninsula, now a maritime museum with a climbable tower.

    32 mi awayMore like this