Pyramid Point Overlook — Attraction in Cleveland Township

Pyramid Point Overlook in Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an extraordinary historical and natural treasure that offers visitors breathtaking panoramas and a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Perched high above Lake Michigan, Pyramid Point provides one of the most stunning overlooks in the area, with sweeping views of the Manitou Islands, sand dunes, and shimmering water that captivate every visitor. Historically, Pyramid Point and the nearby Port Oneida settlement reflect a rugged pioneer legacy dating back to the mid-19th century. Settled primarily by German and Bohemian immigrants, the area once thrived as a key fuel stop and port for steamships navigating Lake Michigan. The settlers endured hard lives building farms, docks, and sawmills amid relentless natural forces. Today, remnants of these early farmsteads evoke a deep sense of solitude and timelessness, blending heritage with nature’s grandeur. The accessible half-mile trail to the overlook is ideal for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, winding through diverse landscapes of old farm fields, beech-maple forests, and rugged dunes. Many praise it as a breathtaking, must-see destination, perfect for quiet reflection or a picnic amid serene wilderness. The viewpoint is so captivating that guests often find themselves lingering for hours, mesmerized by the play of light and color on the lake below. For those seeking both nature’s beauty and profound historical resonance, Pyramid Point Overlook offers a rare encounter—the awe of vast waters and islands paired with the enduring spirit of early Michigan settlers. Its blend of scenic brilliance and storied past makes it an unforgettable highlight of any trip to the...

The view from up top is amazing--totally worth the short hike up. The water, actually, looked irresistable from up there, so my partner and I decided to run down the dune.

The sign warned us of a 2 hour hike back up, but we're pretty physically fit so it only took us about 45 minutes. That, too, was absolutely worth it, if only for the run down, which I can only describe as "sledding, but better." The hike up was an awesome full body workout, though was admittedly daunting looking from below. It's steepest at the very bottom, though, and the sand makes for great grip.

If you go down, you will be using your hands to get back up; we put our shoes on our hands and basically bear climbed up like a pair of idiots. And bring water, with a backpack for it, since you want your hands and the lovely shoreline free...

Perfection. It is gloriously beautiful. The pictures for sure don’t do this place justice. The hike through the woods is gorgeous, but it is on an incline, so it may be difficult for tired kiddos or those with low hiking stamina. If you’re in reasonably good shape, it’s really not a problem. Asthma? For sure bring your inhaler.

TIP— Uphill hike in the forest on the way to the top, so no matter what bring drinking water. But especially if you’re planning on going down this thing. It is STEEEEEEP! Give yourself time. Don’t run or overdo it, especially on hot days.

TIP— plan ahead & know if you want to climb, and go in the early morning, preferably right after a rain. The sand won’t slip as much. Don’t get discouraged & just be like the tortoise... slow & steady & looking ahead....