Hikers can enjoy more than fifty miles of maintained trails on the islands of the National Lakeshore. These trails provide access to lighthouses, abandoned quarries, old farm sites, historic logging camps, beaches, campsites, and scenic overlooks.
Besides trails, there are numerous sandy beaches that are great for walking and exploring. Some of the favorites are Little Sand Bay and Meyers Beach on the mainland, Julian Bay on Stockton Island, Long Island beaches, Raspberry Island sandspit, East Bay on Sand Island , South Twin sandspit and Rocky Island sandspit. Beaches are highly sensitive to human disturbance, so remember:
- Walk on boardwalks where they are provided.
- Keep pets on leash at all times (park regulation).
- Do not walk through sandscape vegetation.
- Walk on beach areas without vegetation and enjoy unique sandscape plants from a distance.
ON THE MAINLAND
Lakeshore Trail
With the opening of the first segment of the Lakeshore Trail, the park now offers hiking opportunities on the mainland, as well. When finished, this trail will run the length of the Lakeshore's mainland unit. The section now open extends 4.5 miles, from Meyers Road, past the cliffs above the mainland sea caves, and approximately halfway along the Lakeshore's mainland unit.
This trail is a rugged path for use by experienced hikers, with stream crossings and steep slopes along the way. Consult a ranger for up-to-date information on trail conditions.
ON THE ISLANDS
