Think this belongs in the Caribbean? Think again. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to towering sand dunes, crystal-clear turquoise waters, scenic overlooks, and miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. Of all the places I’ve visited in Michigan, this is my absolute favorite. Whether you’re climbing the famous dunes, taking in breathtaking views from Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, or relaxing on the beach, it’s easy to see why. If you’re looking for unforgettable scenery without leaving the Midwest, Sleeping Bear Dunes deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.

🍂 Sleeping Bear Dunes in the Fall

Watch our fall visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore →

Quick Facts

📍Location: Empire, Michigan
⏱️Time Needed: 1 -3 Days
💲 Cost: National Park Pass, Annual Pass or Daily Pass ($15 – $250)
📅 Best Time to Visit: Late May – Mid October

Visitor Tips

🥤Bring plenty of water
🌅 Start early if visiting during peak season (late June through August)
☀️The sand can get very hot in summer.

Things to Do

Dune Climb

The Dune Climb is one of the most iconic and popular attractions at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Standing at the base of the towering sand dunes, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Michigan. Whether you challenge yourself to reach the top or simply enjoy climbing partway, this is an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The soft sand makes the climb more difficult than it looks, but the incredible views and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.

For those looking for an even bigger adventure, the Dune Climb also marks the beginning of the Dunes Trail, a strenuous hike that leads all the way to Lake Michigan. Since we were traveling with young children, we chose to enjoy the main climb instead, and it was the perfect balance of adventure and fun for our family.

⏱️Time Needed: 30 minutes for First Hill, 1.5-2 hours for the Full Dunes Trail

⭐ Why I Recommend It

While the climb to the top can be challenging, the reward is worth it. My kids had an absolute blast running back down the dunes, and it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of our trip. If you’re visiting with children, this is an adventure they won’t soon forget.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 7.4-mile scenic loop winds through forests, past towering sand dunes, and to several breathtaking overlooks of Lake Michigan. Along the way, you’ll find numerous pull-offs where you can stop to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the park through interpretive signs. It’s an easy way to see many of the park’s highlights without a long hike, making it a great option for visitors of all ages.

⏱️Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 Hours

⭐ Why I Recommend It

If you only have time for one activity at Sleeping Bear Dunes, make it the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Every overlook is beautiful, but Stop #9 completely took my breath away. Looking out over the brilliant blue waters of Lake Michigan and the towering dunes is a view I’ll never forget, and it’s one of the biggest reasons Sleeping Bear Dunes is my favorite place in Michigan.

Nearby Attractions

Arcadia Overlook

Located along the scenic M-22 highway, Arcadia Overlook is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Michigan. A short walk from the parking area leads to a viewing platform overlooking the towering bluffs and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch for miles, making it a favorite stop for photographers and anyone exploring Northern Michigan.

Whether you’re driving the M-22 scenic route or heading to or from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Arcadia Overlook is well worth the stop. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, soak in the scenery, and capture some incredible photos.

⏱️Time Needed: 20 – 30 minutes

⭐ Why I Recommend It

Arcadia Overlook was one of those places that made us stop and simply take in the view. The combination of the towering bluffs and the brilliant blue water is absolutely stunning.

🍦 Nearby Stop: After enjoying the overlook, we stopped at Arcadia Ice House Ice Cream Shoppe for a scoop of ice cream. It was the perfect treat before continuing our drive along M-22.

Point Betsie Lighthouse and Beach

Point Betsie Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan, and it’s easy to see why. Built in 1858, the lighthouse sits along the shores of Lake Michigan, where visitors can enjoy beautiful views, explore the historic grounds, or relax on the sandy beach just steps away. The combination of the charming lighthouse, crystal-clear water, and peaceful shoreline makes this a wonderful stop for families, photographers, and anyone looking to unwind.

Whether you spend your time walking the beach, dipping your toes in Lake Michigan, or simply admiring the lighthouse, Point Betsie offers a slower pace and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. It’s also an easy stop to combine with a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes or a scenic drive along M-22.

⏱️Time Needed: 1 -2 hours

⭐Why I Recommend It

After spending the morning climbing dunes and taking in scenic overlooks, Point Betsie Lighthouse and Beach was the perfect place to slow down and relax. The clear blue water, sandy beach, and picturesque lighthouse created one of the most peaceful stops of our trip. It’s the kind of place where you can linger for a while and simply enjoy being by the lake.

🗺️ A Perfect Day Around Sleeping Bear Dunes