• Looking out at the lake

    Sleeping Bear Dunes

    National Lakeshore Michigan

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Esch House

Esch House
Esch House
Kerry Kelly 2007

The Esch House is on the north side of Esch Road. The house is just west of M-22 about 3 miles south of Empire. Look for this house as you head for the Esch Road beach.

This Victorian house was built around 1890 as part of a farmstead that provided livestock, dairy, and fruit to the inhabitants of Aral. The barn and other out-buildings have been removed, and the house is now used for housing for Lakeshore staff.

Continue down Esch Road to Lake Michigan, and take the opportunity to walk the beach and see where Otter Creek enters the lake. Near the vault toilet is an interpretive sign that describes the ghost town of Aral.

Did You Know?

D. H. Day General Store

The D. H. Day General Store in Glen Haven has been restored and is open to the public. Come and see some of the products that were sold in the early 1900's. While you are there, you can browse the bookstore. More...