The Philip A. Hart Visitor Center is open from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM from Labor Day to Memorial Day, and from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
The entrance fee at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is $25 for a private vehicle, covering all passengers for 7 days. Individuals on foot or bicycle need a $25 pass. Children under 16 are free. Annual passes and discounted America the Beautiful passes are also available.
From Traverse City, take M-72 west toward Empire, a 25-mile journey through scenic landscapes, leading you to a realm of towering dunes and pristine Lake Michigan shores.
At Sleeping Bear Dunes, Platte River Campground allows RVs and trailers up to 40 feet. No RVs at D.H. Day Group Campground. Overnight parking permitted in designated campsites; fees apply. Motorcycle parking available in campgrounds. Day-use parking lots scattered throughout the park.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a verdant tapestry of towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and dense forests. This national treasure offers an array of experiences that cater to the discerning traveler. Begin your journey at the Phillip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire, Michigan, where rangers provide invaluable insights and maps to guide you through the park’s myriad attractions.
Hike the Empire Bluffs Trail, one of the most popular routes, which winds through a canopy of maple and beech trees before opening up to breathtaking views of the dunes and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. For a more leisurely experience, drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7.4-mile loop that culminates at Overlook Nine, the park’s premier spot to witness a sunset that paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson.
The park is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offering a scenic bike ride past historic monuments and through landscapes dotted with black cherry and white pine trees. Kayak down the Crystal River, where you might catch a glimpse of trout swimming in the clear waters.
Visit the Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving Station to delve into the rich maritime history of the area. Nearby, the charming town of Traverse City beckons with its artisan shops, wineries, and gourmet restaurants. In the summer, enjoy ranger-led canoe tours or attend one of the many outdoor concerts that resonate through the park’s natural amphitheaters.
As the seasons change, the park transforms; winter brings the opportunity to see the Point Betsie Lighthouse encrusted in ice, while autumn paints the landscape in vibrant shades of orange and red. For stargazers, the Dune Climb area is a prime spot to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
- Area (mi²)
- 111
- Annual visitors
- 1 722 955
- Established year
- 1970
Top 3 Facts about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore National Lakeshore
The dunes rise as high as 460 feet above Lake Michigan, with winds creating two types of dunes: perched dunes on high plateaus and beach dunes along the shore.
In this enchanting lakeshore, white-tailed deer and red foxes roam freely, while gray and fox squirrels scamper through beech and maple forests. The air is filled with the songs of Canada geese, loons, and sandpipers, and the rare piping plover nests on secluded shorelines. Bald eagles soar overhead, and sandhill cranes wade through wetlands. Unique flora includes succulent sea rocket, tough bearberry, and vibrant dune lilies, harebells, and orchids. As night falls, the chorus of frogs and the gentle rustle of northern flying squirrels create a serene ambiance.
Along the shores of Lake Michigan, towering dunes rise up to 450 feet, their white sand bluffs contrasting starkly against the crystal-clear waters below. The landscape, sculpted by ancient glaciers and prevailing winds, features perched dunes on glacial plateaus and thick maple and beech forests that surround clear inland lakes. This natural spectacle is a testament to the region’s geological history, inviting visitors to hike, climb, and marvel at the ever-changing beauty of this unique coastline.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in summer to explore extensive trails and scenic loops. Arrive early, park at the visitor center, and anticipate rugged terrain. Rest often, pack meals, and catch the Northern Lights or evening programs. Check conditions before heading out.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, compass, first aid kit, and water purification tablets. For longer stays, include a tent, sleeping bag, and bear-resistant containers. Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and a headlamp.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other animals. Never feed or touch them, and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural habits. Stay on designated trails to protect the environment and respect the flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers at 231-326-4700. Be aware of changing temperatures and seasonal conditions. Follow all signs and advisories to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, vibrant wildflowers bloom and green leaves unfold. Visit in May for the Cherry Blossom Tour, or bike the Heritage Trail amidst mild weather and stunning Lake Michigan vistas. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this season offers a serene and picturesque experience.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and clear skies, perfect for hiking 100 miles of trails, kayaking, and stargazing at monthly Summer Star Party Events from April to October. Enjoy ranger-led bike rides and yoga on the beach amidst pristine sand and clear waters. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience vibrant fall colors from September to November, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Enjoy the Fall Color Tour along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and hike Empire Bluffs or Alligator Hill for stunning foliage views. Crisp weather and fewer crowds make autumn an ideal time to visit.
Experience winter’s serene beauty from November to March, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 30°F. Snow-covered landscapes, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing await in this tranquil winter wonderland. Dress in layers for quick-changing lake-borne weather. Ideal for snow enthusiasts and those seeking solitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore National Lakeshore has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The famous 450-foot dune drop is located at the Lake Michigan Overlook along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Visitors can access the overlook from Empire, Michigan, but climbing back up from the bottom can take several hours and is strenuous.
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Popular attractions include the Dune Climb, Empire Bluff Trail, Glen Haven Historic Village, and North and South Manitou Islands. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive provides stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the dunes.
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Pets are welcome in specific areas such as Platte River Campground, D. H. Day Campground, and designated trails like Pyramid Point and Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, provided they’re on a leash no longer than six feet. Pets are not allowed at the Dune Climb or North and South Manitou Islands.
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Glen Arbor, Empire, and Frankfort, Michigan, are the closest towns providing lodging, dining, shops, outdoor gear rentals, and local grocery stores. Traverse City, approximately 30 minutes away, offers additional amenities and accommodations.