Dunes Trail — Attraction in Glen Arbor Township

Make no mistake, this a serious hike and more than just an "extra" walk to Lake MI after you get to the top of the Dune Climb. To be safe you should budget 3.5 to 4 hrs to do this trail there and back.

Be sure to bring water, at least a couple bottles per person, since from the top of the dune climb to Lake MI you're essentially walking through a desert environment for several miles. As others have said here, bring sunscreen and a hat too. There are a few shady spots where, in theory, you COULD stop and have lunch, but from what I experienced and saw, you'll probably just want to power through this trail.

Having said that, If you properly prepare yourself and have water, the scenery can be beautiful and certainly unique for Northern Michigan. Lake Michigan is cool and refreshing when you reach the end, and you will find niether the beach or the trail very crowded.

And the others you do bump into on the trail are doing the same thing you're doing, gasping for air halfway up a hill lol. There's a definite bond that happens with your fellow hikers as you all struggle to do the same thing, just get up...

Wow! This trail is a ton of fun and I recommend you do it with family or friends! There are some steep hills but, when you reach the water, you'll be glad you made it! Probably the cleanest part of Lake Michigan since the only way to get there is by boat or through the dune trail. My brother, father, and I have made it a tradition to do every year! Because it's a tradition, we do our best throughout the year to stay healthy so we can do this! There's a portion of the trail that's flat and we like to run it! I know, we're crazy! If you're bigger, like me, I recommend wearing socks with shoes. I say this because all the weight from your body, on your feet, on the hot sand can cause blisters on your feet. My first time doing this, was also my last time. I have no issues, now that I wear my shoes! Make sure you also have a backpack with water!!!!! If you have a LifeStraw or LifeStraw water bottle, you can fill up at the lake! Definitely recommend you try this trail out if...

Awesome trail straight through the dunes to Lake Michigan. It is a bit of a strenuous hike through the hilly dunes. 3.5 miles total(trail in and turn around same trial out)Did it with an 8 and 10 yr old. Had to take a lot of stops on the way back as the sand was heating up and got hotter and was tired from the hike to the water. Definitely worth the sweat. Kids were very proud of themselves. Views were spectacular. We got there at 8:30 am and finished around 12:45 pm. We did stop and cool off in the water for about 30 mins at the beach area, it was a bit rocky in the water but was bearable. The last 30-40 minutes of the hike the sand was starting to get real hot. Keep in mind barely any shade so the sand gets HOT. Don’t forget to bring water. The earlier the better for your feets sake if you decide to go barefoot...