Explore one of the most beautiful coastlines in America.
Growing up in Michigan, I have always known about the giant sand dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. A family trip brought me up to see those dunes and I loved running up them in my bare feet. I have since returned a couple of more times to see these fantastic dunes.
The dunes are covered in vegetation, but that sure doesn’t make it easier to hike them.
The park covers a 35 mile stretch of Lake Michigan coastline, preserving forests, beaches, dunes, and even a little village.
On my last visit, I had a day to explore the dunes and do some hiking. My first stop, the usual first of many visitors, was the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. I stopped to hike the Cottonwood Trail and a little bit of the Dunes Trail.
Lovely view of Little Glen Lake.
Seeing a bit of the lakeshore from the hiking trail.
Rolling sand dunes.
It was such a peaceful hike. I didn’t encounter too many people it was great. I also got a ton of sand in my shoes and a little sun burnt. (I missed a spot.)
The famous dune climb that I did a couple of times. I cheated and started my hike near the top of the dunes.
And then there is what I like to call “the Dune of Death.” You can’t even see the bottom of the dune from the top. I’ve never climbed it down very far.
There is an overlook a little further down. It’s fun to watch all the people struggling on the dune.
Now to Glen Haven Village, which was a company town from 1865-1931. It served as a dock for nearby Glen Arbor and a fuel supply point for ships traveling the lakes. The town is now preserved by Sleeping Bear Dunes, and you can explore some of the shops and the Cannery Boathouse Museum.
The Cannery Boathouse Museum.
The Sleeping Bear Inn dates back to the 1860s, but became really popular in the 1920s.
The old Glen Haven General Store. They are sometimes open to sell things.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a perfect place to visit on a summer’s day in Northern Michigan. It’s a fun place to hike, swim and just chill out for a few days. Bring a picnic and enjoy the beach.
Check out all the other posts in my Spotlight series!
Or
