Here is your all-encompassing guide to exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. From the best trails, secret hikes, sandy beaches, padding rivers, where to camp, and where to fuel up at restaurants near Sleeping Bear Dunes!
The Basics
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was established in 1970 and covers over 70,000 acres of land. It is 1 of 3 National Lakeshores, and the only one on Lake Michigan. This National Lakeshore does require a park pass, either a 7-day long park specific pass can be purchased, or the all-encompassing America the Beautiful pass can be used. The Philip Hart Visitor Center is located in Empire and has modern restrooms, a small museum, and gift shop. Stop in to get your park pass stamp, pick up your junior ranger booklet, purchase your park pass, and chat with a ranger before you embark on your adventures.
To learn more about the legend of Sleeping Bear Dunes check out this article or purchase the book (which is a must-have for any Michigander).
Must Visit Spots in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Pierce Stocking Drive
A 7 mile long paved scenic drive to take your car or a bike. With 12 pull-offs, there’s no shortage of beautiful look-outs, expansive views, and gorgeous nature. Starting in the dense forest, leading all the way out to the sandy dunes you’ll experience all the ecosystems Sleeping Bear Dunes has. You can download the National Park app for a self-guided tour experience!
SAFTEY NOTE: though it is not prohibited to climb down the dune at stop 9 and 10 (yet), it is strongly discouraged. Erosion has and will continue to occur due to weather patterns and other patrons climbing down, due to water levels sometimes there is little to no beach at the bottom and there is no other way to get up besides a rescue helicopter
Dune Climb
The classic dune climb that most thing of when Sleeping Bear Dunes is brought up! This is a great stop to make and certainly something to check off the bucket list. Make sure to bring LOTS of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good pair of hiking sandals. Climbing the dunes barefoot is not a great idea due to the sand being quite hot in the summer months, having some sort of foot protection is crucial when climbing.
LOCAL TIP: most people think when they climb the first dune they will see Lake Michigan, you will NOT. You will have a spectacular view of Little Glen Lake to your east, but it will take climbing over about three dunes, or about a half-mile to get your first glimpses of the Lake and Manitou Islands.
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Guide to Hiking Sleeping Bear Dunes
For my favorite trails under 3 miles in Sleeping Bear Dunes click here!
There are 13 main trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes, 1 paved trail with 12 hiking/walking trails.
The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a 27-mile long paved trail perfect for biking, walking, running. There are numerous trailheads to begin your adventure at, with many trailheads featuring vault toilets. For an interactive map of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail click here!
There are 12 main hiking trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes with various difficulty, views, and terrain, there is something for everyone!
| Trail (North to South) | Difficulty | Distance | Terrain | Dune/Lake View? |
| Good Harbor | easy | 2.8miles | dirt | Lake |
| Pyramid Point | easy-moderate | 1mile | dirt | Dune + Lake |
| Bay View Trail System | easy | 8miles | dirt | (distant) Lake |
| Alligator Hill Trail System | moderate | 9miles | dirt | Lake |
| Sleeping Bear Point | moderate | 2.5miles | sand | Dune + Lake |
| Dune Climb | hard | 3.5miles | sand | Dune + Lake |
| Cotton Wood Trail | moderate | 1.4 miles | sand | Dune |
| Windy Moraine Nature Trail | easy | 1.5 miles | dirt | No |
| Shauger Hill | easy-moderate | 2.4miles | dirt | No |
| Empire Bluff* | easy-moderate | 1.5 miles | dirt | Dune + Lake |
| Platte Plains Trail System | easy | >14miles | mainly dirt | No |
| Old Indian Trail | easy | 2-5miles | dirt/sand | Dune + Lake |
Dogs
Dogs on a 6-foot leash are allowed on all trails that are DIRT, dogs are NOT allowed on the dune portions of trails.
Bonus Trails
These are not official trails in the National Park, but can be found via AllTrails.
Treat Farm Trail 2 miles, moderate, dirt and sand, gorgeous overlooks onto Lake Michigan and dunes. Can connect to Empire Bluff Trail
Pyramid Point Loop Trail 2.8 miles, moderate, dirt and sand, 360 degree views of dunes and Lake Michigan.
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Rivers for Paddling in Sleeping Bear Dunes
Two picturesque rivers flow through Sleeping Bear Dunes, and both are perfect to paddle down!
Platte River
On the southern end of Sleeping Bear, the Platte river flows from Big Platte Lake, to Loon Lake, then out to Lake Michigan. The river is shallow in most parts and easily paddled with a kayak or canoe. Tubes can be used to float down as well though sometimes the current can be quite slow, and it can be difficult to cross Loon Lake if winds are coming out of the West. Rent kayaks or tubes from Riverside Canoes right of M-22 in Sleeping Bear, from Honor Trading Post, or plop your own gear in at the Platte River Picnic Area, located right off M-22 near the Platte River Campground. This picnic area has a launch spot for kayaks, modern restrooms, picnic tables and numerous pavilions to rest and relax.
Crystal River
Toward the north end of Sleeping Bear, in Glen Arbor, the crystal clear (haha get it?) Crystal river runs for 4 miles back and forth through dense forests. The Crystal River is one of the most peaceful and picturesque rivers I have ever been on in Michigan. At most, it’s about 3-4′ deep, making it really only accessible via kayak. Launch at the drop off location on Fisher Road. To note, there are 3 portages along Crystal River, two involving crossing a road. Rent kayaks from Crystal River Outfitters, or if you have your own, pay $10 to have them transport you and your gear to the start and simply paddle back to your car!
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Best Beaches in Sleeping Bear Dunes
Looking to kick back and relax one day? Head to one of the many sandy shorelines along Lake Michigan and soak in the sun and take a dip in the freshwater ocean that Lake Michigan is.
Starting in the south end of Sleeping Bear Dunes, head to the end of Lake Michigan road, the same road that Platte River Campground is located on, to head to Platte Point Beach.
Head north to Empire to reach the iconic Esch road beach, where dogs are allowed, beach bonfires are a plenty, and the shoreline seems to stretch forever.
On the north end of Empire is one of my personal favorites, North Bar, which involves a slight walk to everlasting stretch of sandy and rocky shore, but it’s so incredibly worth it.
Now, traveling further north, head into Glen Haven (located just northwest of Glen Arbor) to a relaxing and calmer stretch of beach along Sleeping Bear Bay, some of the best rock hunting can be done here!
Located at the tippy top of Sleeping Bear Dunes rests two more beaches County Rd 669 off of Bohemian Rd resting along Good Harbor Bay and County Rd 651 off of Good Harbor Trail leads to a beautiful sandy beach.
SAFTEY TIP: bonfires can only be had on approved beaches, and can only occur between the water line and the toe of the first dune!
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Camping near Sleeping Bear Dunes
Camping IN Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
There are two campgrounds within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and run by the National Park service. On the south end, Platter River Campground has 179 sites, 96 with electricity, 25 walk-in sites. Modern restrooms, hot showers, and water spigots are found throughout the campground. During the winter months (October – April) sites are open on a first-come, first-serve basis. During the summer sites must be reserved at Recreation.gov.
In the north end of the park, nestled along Sleeping Bear Bay is the DH Day Campground. With all 87 rustic sites, no modern restrooms, one may think “why would I camp here?”. Walking distance from a stretch of sandy shoreline on Lake Michigan where you can have beach bonfires, star gaze, take a dip. A short 2-mile walk or bike into the town of Glen Arbor. A wonderfully peaceful and picturesque camping getaway. Sites can be reserved 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov.
Camping AROUND Sleeping Bear Dunes
State Forest Campgrounds
These are managed by the Michigan State Park DNR and require a Michigan State Park pass. These sites are first-come, first-serve and cost $20 a night (cash-only). There is no electricity or modern restrooms, though most have potable well water. There are two State Forest Campground near Sleeping Bear Dunes, both located near the south end in Honor, MI. Veterans Memorial Campground has 24 sites suitable for tents and small trailers. Platte River Campground has 26 sites suitable for tents and smaller trailers. These are both conveniently located along the Platte River.
Private Campgrounds
On the south end of Sleeping Bear Dunes, located just south of Beulah, in Benzie, is Timberline Campground. Featuring both RV and tent sites, electricity at all sites, and well-kept modern restrooms and bath houses. I can say from experience, they have some of the cleanest showers I’ve ever seen at a campground. My family has camped her for a few years now and will continue to return!
In the midst of it all, Empire Township Campground is a quaint campground. Featuring rustic sites, electric sites, coin-operated showers, vault toilets, and one-flush toilet. Reservations can be made online.
Heading even further north, just outside Glen Arbor is Indigo Bluffs. A beautiful campground and RV Resort, this is the perfect place to bring your big rig, trailer, or even your tent!
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Restaurants near Sleeping Bear Dunes
Sleeping Bear Dunes expands over 35 miles from Beulah to north of Glen Arbor. Depending on the area of the park you’re at, there are many local restaurants to enjoy! Whether you’re looking to sit down, grab something to go, or fuel up with a coffee, there’s no shortage of delicious options throughout the area!
Starting on the south end in Beulah and Honor, up to Empire, and then Glen Arbor there are such a range of wonderful local places to enjoy!
South End: Beulah and Honor
Beulah is one of my absolute favorite small Michigan towns. Your must stop place for delicious coffee, breakfast all day or a filling lunch is Ursa Major Bistro. Wanting to sit down and have a local brew? Head to Five Shores Brewing for craft beer, live music, and an awesome patio! Keep it simple and just pick up a Pizza from Papano’s Pizza, major bonus points to being able to order online! For the perfect bar food and beer head to Lucky Dog Bar and Grille!
LOCAL TIP: order a Sleeping Bear Latte (hot or blended) from Ursa Major Bistro for the most delicious caffeinated goodness, it’s Sleeping Bear Dunes in a cup!
In Honor, the Platte River Inn is your must visit local restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! For some absolutely mouth-watering food, heads to Jim’s Joint for some classic BBQ. And swing by JoMo’s for some ice cream and hand held foods!
Mid-way: Empire
Empire is one of those perfect, homey, Northern Michigan towns. The resting grounds for the Visitor Center for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and home to some of the best local restaurants in Northern Michigan. Joe’s Friendly Tavern could not live up to its name more. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner you can grab a great meal any time of day. Head to the Shipwreck Cafe for grab and go food, the ultimate quick bites place in Empire. For stellar pizza head to Empire Village Inn. And before you watch a sunset at the Empire Beach, grab an ice cream from Tiffany’s Cafe.
North End: Glen Arbor
The ultimate spot for top-notch local restaurants near Sleeping Bear Dunes is Glen Arbor. To start your day, head to Leelanau Coffee Roasters for some caffeine and the perfect pastry item! When it’s time for lunch or dinner head to the Cherry Public House for the iconic Cherry Republic goodness. For the perfect local joint head to Art’s Tavern, hands down my family’s favorite just note they are CASH ONLY. For live music and good eats, head to Boone Docks. The perfect grab and go place in Glen Arbor is Bear Paw Pizza, For a nicer atmosphere, head to Blu, with gorgeous views of Sleeping Bear Bay and the Manitou Islands!
LOCAL TIP: order the Parmesan Crusted Grilled Cheese from Cherry Public House for the best grilled cheese of your LIFE. Pairs perfectly with the Loaded Lug Hard Cider
Hoping this guide is helpful in planning your adventures to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! Leave your recommendations and favorites below or on Instagram! For more adventures, check out my YouTube channel as well! Happy Adventuring!