Sleeping Bear Dune Overlooks to See Every Season

Ever find yourself continually visiting a certain place over and over again, each season, and it’s still just as beautiful? These are those place in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. No matter the season, these overlooks bring spectacular views.


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1. Empire Bluff Trail


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This is a short 1.6 mile out-and-back hike that 1/2 way yields some of the most gorgeous views of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. I’ve hiked this trail in winter with a foot of snow and in the sweltering heat of summer to catch some of the best sunset views. There is never a bad season to hike this trail.


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2. Overlook #9 & #10 on Pierce Stocking Drive


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April-November you can access Pierce Stocking Drive by car (entrance pass needed). But even in the off months you can hike 2-miles each way to this incredible lookout.


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3. Glen Lake Overlook on the Cottonwood Trail


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I stumbled on this overlook by pure accident while hiking in the fall. It’s honestly the best lookout onto Little Glen and Big Glen Lake. You can access this via the Cottonwood Trail, Parking either at the listed trailhead just past stop #3 on Pierce Stocking Drive or by parking at the Dune Climb lot.


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Comment here or on Instagram your favorite overlooks or spots throughout Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore!