Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — Attraction in Glen Arbor Township

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – A Majestic Wonder You’ll Never Forget

If there’s one place in the Midwest that feels otherworldly yet deeply rooted in natural beauty, it’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—a crown jewel of Michigan that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.

🗺️ Scenic Drive & Lookouts – Nature’s Masterpiece We began our journey with the iconic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a route sculpted through dense forests and winding hills that open into panoramic overlooks. Each designated stop gifts you a new perspective of the dunes, forests, and the breathtaking blue stretch of Lake Michigan. Though erosion has claimed one of the legendary lookouts, the ever-changing landscape adds a humbling reminder of nature’s power and the fleeting beauty of time.

🏜️ Dune Climb – A Test of Will, A Reward for the Soul We revisited the Dune Climb, where the sand is surprisingly firm underfoot. It’s a manageable ascent with views that grow more spectacular with every step. A few years back, we hiked all the way to the shoreline, a trek that felt like walking through an epic sandscape. Though some dune access points to Lake Michigan are now officially closed, adventurers still descend—just beware, the climb back up can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over two hours, depending on your stamina and the will of your legs!

🌊 Lake Michigan – A Horizon that Never Ends Reaching the edge where sand meets water is surreal. The vast expanse of Lake Michigan, stretching endlessly into the horizon, feels like you’re standing at the edge of the Earth. It’s not just a lake—it’s a freshwater sea that mirrors the sky and leaves you breathless.

🌟 An Unforgettable Natural Wonder Sleeping Bear Dunes isn’t just a park—it’s a living wonder, shaped by ancient glaciers, kissed by the winds of the Great Lakes, and etched with stories in every grain of sand. From towering dunes to forested trails, this is a place that fills your spirit and etches itself into your memory forever.

🧭 Final Thoughts – A Must-See Before You Die This is not just a site, it’s an experience. A testament to the majesty of the natural world, and without question, one of the great wonders of the United States, if not the world. Whether you come for the challenge, the serenity, or the awe-inspiring views—you will not leave the...

FYI - with national parks new video policies we are rating them as very poorly as this is not a tax payer friendly policy. Just because so many people have decided to see our national parks they are doing this to limit your access. National Forest land however is much more accessible and has a better mission. Support your state and national Forest and leave the national parks to root away again. Besides we captured these historical or geography specific places to preserve them. But they should be an experience not a hands off museum.

OK More sand dunes, if you travel up the East side of lake Michigan from Indiana to the UP there are sand dunes. While there are a couple of interesting activities like the dune climb, hiking trails though forest and dunes, and even the lake overlook with a 30 degree dune climb and $3000 rescue fee if you can't make it back up. The other activities can be boring. The little town of Glen Haven with historic buildings, the maritime museum and the visitor center.

If you do decide to come and mark a national Park off you list 2 days is all you really need and only if you plan to do some hiking or stay overnight for a star event like Northern lights.

The scenic drive requires a fee or America the beautiful pass. Which we would have promoted but if you take a video on your scenic drive it could cost you big if somebody with out your consent. Come on NPS do better.

Any how parking is always a big issue. Getting into any park that charges has huge backups. So be prepared to go at 6am or sit in lines burning fuel or wasting your charge with limited charging in the park or near by .

If you do plan to go get your pass early and ask why there isn't a special lane for prepaid passes. Don't talk to the ranger at the entry gate, pay your fee and go to the visitor center to get any...

It was simply the best tour of my life so far!😍

My visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was truly the highlight of my life thus far! This enchanting natural wonder located in Michigan offers an unparalleled experience of pristine beauty and outdoor adventure.

From the moment I set foot on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, I was captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounded me. The towering sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests created a picturesque backdrop that seemed straight out of a postcard.

Exploring the dunes was an exhilarating adventure, as I climbed to the top of towering peaks and marveled at the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The feeling of accomplishment and awe as I reached the summit was unmatched, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the natural world around me.

In addition to hiking, the lakeshore offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. Whether I was cooling off in the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan or enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst the towering trees, every moment spent at Sleeping Bear Dunes was filled with joy and wonder.

Overall, my experience at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was nothing short of magical. It's a place where nature's beauty truly shines, and I can't wait to return for another...