5 Things I’d Never Do Again at Sleeping Bear Dunes
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It’s no secret that Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a stunning, magnificent place to visit in Northern Michigan. It is well-deserving of all the hype, with experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
However, it’s not without its downfalls, especially with summer crowds and sometimes challenging weather.
As a local, I’ve learned a few things along the way, and there are a few rules I live by, especially during tourist season. Follow along for 5 things I’d never do again at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
1. Do the Dune Climb on a Hot Day
Most people hear about the Dune Climb for its famous views and the chance to run full speed down the sand. However, what most people don’t realize is that it’s highly populated, the sand can be scorching, and the views of Lake Michigan actually require more hiking than just up the first dune. As much fun as this area can be during the right months (like winter, when you can sled!), I never take visitors here.
Here’s a better option…
Instead, I head down the road to the beautiful Sleeping Bear Point. You can hike the full 2.7 mile loop, which has sweeping views of Lake Michigan the entire way, or you can take the first spur trail a quarter of a mile in, where you reach the shoreline of Lake Michigan and can climb and run down numerous dunes. You don’t want to miss this epic spot.
Read more: 10 Beautiful Hikes in Traverse City You Need to Explore
2. Only Visit Empire Beach
Most visitors drive into Sleeping Bear Dunes near Pierce Stocking Drive. Then, they head to Empire Beach, which isn’t a bad choice. However, the parking lot requires additional payment, is always busy, and only offers a limited beach area before it becomes private.
Instead, try this…
The beaches you truly don’t want to skip are just down the road, with no additional parking fee and an area you can walk for miles and miles. I’d recommend Bohemian Road Beach, which not only offers the main parking area, but also provides secluded spots- just take the dirt road that splits off right before the parking lot.
Read more: A Local’s Guide to 8 Breathtaking Beaches in Northern Michigan
3. Sleep on Lesser-Known Hikes
Sure, there are incredible hikes that most people know about, like the Empire Bluff Trail or Pyramid Point. These are beautiful spots that tourists flock to and can get pretty busy during the peak of summer.
Consider these other options…
If you want to traverse a quiet spot with just as much beauty, head to a less populated trail that is just as unique. A few of my personal favorites include Treat Farm Trail outside of Empire, Whaleback Natural Area in Leland, or Mud Lakes up in Northport.
4. Only See the Dunes by Land
With all the fantastic hiking trails in the area, it’s easy to spend time on foot. But with the miles of shoreline and nearby rivers, some of the best surprises are only seen by kayak or paddleboard.
Here’s what I’d recommend…
Go paddling on the Platte River, which leads to Lake Michigan, or kayaking the Crystal River, which winds through quiet stretches of pine trees and lands you in the heart of Glen Arbor.
Apart from these rivers, some of my most magical evenings have been spent paddling across Lake Michigan, after the wind dies down. When the wind is low, you can see straight through the turquoise water, providing a view of what lies underneath.
Trust me- bring a paddleboard to the beach and go out to get a view of the dunes from the water- you won’t regret it.
5. Skip Visiting During the Off-Season Months
Yes, it’s true, Sleeping Bear Dunes has so much to offer during the summer months. But, what most people forget is that the beauty extends all year round.
Consider visiting in the off-season…
In the fall, the colors light up the forest, showcasing their splendor on every turn on the infamous M-22. In the winter, strap on that sled and visit the Dune Climb where you can race down the snowy slopes. And in the spring, the world is beginning to bloom, and the birdsong is strong.
The towns are sleepier, but the area is still bursting with things to do- chocolate tastings at Grocer’s Daughter, salmon jumping along the Platte River, and spectacular sunsets no matter the season.
Explore All that Sleeping Bear Dunes Has to Offer
Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of my favorite places on this planet. Don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore- go find the magic that exists everywhere you turn.