In 2011, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was named the most beautiful place in America by Good Morning America, and one look from the top reveals exactly why. The Dune Climb features plenty of pure, wind-blown sand perfect for climbing enthusiasts. A picnic area sits at the bottom, and from there, you can ascend the dunes for a breathtaking view of Glen Lake. If you have extra time and energy, consider hiking through the dunes all the way to Lake Michigan, or explore the nearby Empire Beach and Heritage Trail. Just be prepared, as this hike may take 3-4 hours, so don't forget to bring plenty of water.
A visit to Glen Haven, the small village on the Lake Michigan shoreline, is a step back to a time when small villages and docks supplied fuel to steamers along the Great Lakes. Glen Haven is the best preserved cord wood station on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and perhaps the entire Great Lakes. This historic village, once a company town, eventually diversified into farming, canning of fruit, and tourism. Besides exploring the maritime museums, you can walk the beautiful Lake Michigan beach, search for Petoskey stones, and enjoy nearby Empire Beach. Glen Haven also offers several hikes with stunning views, including an entrance to the Heritage Trail, which leads you through the breathtaking landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes.
The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a hard-surfaced, non-motorized, multi-use trail designed to stretch 27 miles from the northern end of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore at County Road 651 to the Leelanau/Benzie County line at Manning Road, just south of Empire Beach. Currently, the trail covers nearly 22 miles between Empire and Bohemia Road, providing connections to various park attractions and the charming town of Glen Arbor along the way. While most of the trail is paved with asphalt, a 3-mile section that runs through the Port Oneida Rural Historic District north of Glen Arbor is composed of crushed stone.
Empire Beach is a popular destination for families, offering a play area for children and a beautiful spot to walk and sunbathe on the sugar sand. Visitors can also explore the nearby Heritage Trail and enjoy several restaurants in the Village of Empire, all while being close to the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes.
The largest city nearby, just 22 miles away, Traverse City boasts a beautiful bay and beaches, including the scenic Empire Beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, explore the Heritage Trail, and indulge in the many restaurants and shops in the downtown area. Additionally, big box stores and malls are also available for shopping needs, all within reach of the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes.
These small towns each have their own charm with shops, restaurants, and nearby beaches like Empire Beach. You can also explore the Heritage Trail, which offers scenic views of the area. There is a grocery store just 4 miles away in Glen Arbor, and you'll find kayak and bicycle rentals available for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes.