Empire Bluff Scenic Lookout — Local services in Empire Township

A truly spectacular view. The main trail is not especially strenuous, making it firendly to a wide range of experience and skill levels. For those looking for a little more adventure, the trail continues unimproved for a mile or two past the main lookout, running along the bluffs before cutting inland via a flat, well-maintained path to a historic farmstead. Because the bluffside trail is made of loose sand, it's surprisingly challenging. All told, this trail provides a decent workout for all fitness levels and access to beautiful scenerey, all contained in a short hike that can be completed in only a couple hours.

In order to make a complete loop, you do have to walk along the road a ways, but with a decent-sized group and a little planning, you can avoid that, even with only one car. Speaking of planning, a word of warning: Look out for poison ivy, and be prepared for it to encroach on the narrow parts of the trail. Also, try to avoid fish fly season if you can. They don't bite, but they are...

Sunset... Words can't describe. One of the wonders of the world such a perfect place. It's like a monastery at sunset, sound travels so my experience was that it's a very quiet place. The sunset is so beautiful and the sound of the waves. I think your roughly 609ft above the waters surface and it's safe hike and viewing area. Because of the sand your steps are nearly silent. You just dont make any noise. One place on the planet to experience a sunset like this one. One of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and the only place on the planet to have sand dunes on a freshwater coast. This truly and actually is a one of a kind place to see a sunset I'd say it's the most important part of the pilgrimage to the sleeping bear dunes period flat out. Pictures cannot remotely convey the milage your viewing...

Our family has visited over 50 national park sites so we've hiked on plenty of beautiful hikes, but this one is something else. This hike is very family friendly and anyone can do it. Our 4 year olds had no issues with the entire out and back hike. The trail is great, the first lookout is inspiring, and the reward at the end of the hike is one of the best views of any national parks hikes we've seen.

This is truly a must see, must do hike if you are anywhere in the area. Look carefully at any one or two star reviews, they are likely locals who really just don't want tourists coming here and discovering how incredible this place truly is. Honestly, this is a hidden gem and one of the best views in the national parks system.

Incredibly family friendly and highly...