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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

9922 Front St · Empire, MI

Why you should go…

Named by many outlets one of the most beautiful places in America, this national lakeshore protects 35 miles of Lake Michigan coastline and dune bluffs that rise up to 450 feet above the water. The Dune Climb near Glen Haven is the park's best-known spot to scale the sand on foot.

  • #sand dunes
  • #lake michigan
  • #hiking
  • #national lakeshore

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

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

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

    Free

    A 7.4-mile paved loop through Sleeping Bear Dunes with overlooks 450 feet above the lake.

    6.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Theatre & Events
    Local Gem

    Interlochen Center for the Arts

    Under $25

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

    18 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Fishtown

    Free

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

    21 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Clinch Park

    Free

    A downtown Traverse City beach and marina where West Grand Traverse Bay meets Front Street.

    22 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Traverse City State Park

    Under $25

    A shaded, family-friendly campground and beach on West Grand Traverse Bay.

    24 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    Petoskey State Park

    Under $25

    A Lake Michigan beach where visitors comb the shoreline for Michigan's official state stone.

    68 mi awayMore like this