The Experience
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers magnificent views over sweeping vistas of Lake Michigan from atop high dunes, miles of perfect freshwater beaches, forested wilderness islands, hiking trails and a series of preserved historic farmsteads. The glistening waters of Lake Michigan make a stunning backdrop for the dunes and forests, while abundant wildlife and a diverse ecosystem thrill the nature lover.

Dune Climb
Children and energetic teens and adults often make it a special point to test the Dune Climb, a challenging but rewarding part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore visitor experience.  The reward for climbers includes views of Glen Lake and the dunes' summit.  The Dune Climb is off M 109 eight miles north of Empire.  Restroom facilities are provided.  Those wishing to continue on can hike trails at three degrees of difficulty.  They are:  the rugged Dunes Trail, a 3.5 mile (5.6 km) trip to Lake Michigan and back, the moderately difficult 2.8 mile (4.5 km) loop trail to Sleeping Bear Point, and the easy Duneside Accessible Trail, a handicapped-accessible 1.8 mile (2.9 km) hike through fields and woods.