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
Pierce Stocking Drive is a 7.4 mile scenic route in Sleeping Bear Dunes. In the winter time the road is closed to motor vehicles but is open to hikers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers. Portions of the 7.4 miles are closed but there are still many miles, of varying difficulty, to trek. My sister and I hiked 3.4 miles of trail, starting at the parking lot of off M107, hiking toward lookout 12, then 11, and turning around after reaching lookouts 9 and 10. Pierce Stocking Drive has decent elevation change, the entire hike out was uphill, which meant the whole way back was downhill.
The trail head is located off of M107.
The trail is partially in a forest, partially in the open, walking on the road. Parking available right at the trail head in a parking lot. The trail is wide enough for at least 5 people, as it’s usually a road for cars. Dogs are allowed (as long as they are leashed). There is an entrance fee, you need a Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Pass.
The Highlights
If you have ever been on Pierce Stocking Drive during the spring, summer, and fall months, you know just how gorgeous the drive is, as well as the lookouts.
The only way to access these lookouts is by hiking in the winter and it is WELL worth it!
Lots of great signage and maps for cross-country skier’s.
Very large parking lot is helpful as there can be many people throughout the drive.
The Warnings
Some significant elevation change, but it’s more than worth it!
Summary
Yes
Children (5+)
Dogs (leashed)
Parking
Entrance Fee
Trail Running
No
Camping
Water
Restroom (closed for winter)
