Welcome to Let’s Go on a Hike! Here I’ll have weekly reviews on hikes throughout Michigan (and maybe beyond). Questions like: Can I trail run this path? How much parking is available? How difficult is this trail? and many more will be answered!

The Basics

Old Indian Trails is the most southern trailhead in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This trails has over 5 miles of trail with 3 different loops to take or as an out-and-back. We hiked 2.3 miles, and did the green loop. This trail has slight elevation change, at about 100 ft, majority of the elevation change comes once you reach the dunes.

The trail head is located off of M22, south of Platte Lake and north of Crystal Lake, on the West Side of the road. Apple Maps does lead you to the correct destination if searched there. There is a parking lot with a decent amount of parking.

The trail goes through a forest and out onto the dunes. Parking available right at the trail head in a medium-large parking lot. The trail is wide enough for 1 person, sometimes 2. Dogs are allowed (as long as they are leashed) in the forested area, Dogs are NOT allowed out onto the dunes. There is an entrance fee, you must have a Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore pass.

---

The Highlights

Beautiful forest hike, out to the dunes. With stunning, panoramic views of Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes. 

Honestly, one of my top 3 trails for views of the dunes (this beats Pyramid Point in my book!)

The Warnings

This trail does involve steep elevation change when out on the dunes. 

---

Summary

 

Yes

Children (3+)

Dogs (leashed) (only in forested portion)

Parking

Trail Running (easy)

Entrance Fee

 

No

Camping 

Water

Dogs (on the dune portion of the trail)

Restroom