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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Otter Creek at Esch Road
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Esch Road Beach
Otter Creek at Esch Road Beach

Kerry Kelly 2005

Otter Creek at the Esch Road Beach

This beautiful beach is located at the mouth of Otter Creek.  It is fun to wade in the warm water of the creek.  Walk up the creek to see a variety of wildflowers that line the banks.  The creek outlet to the lake can move north or south depending on the wave action on the lake.  It can look different each time you visit.

Esch Road is located about 3 mile south of Empire on M-22.  Turn to the west and follow the road about 1 mile to Lake Michigan. You can park along the road and there are bathroom facilities. 

This is the site of the former little logging village of Aral.  Take time to read the interpretive sign that describes the logging activities that made this an active logging town and port.

 
Beach at Esch Road
Kerry Kelly 2005
Beach fun at Esch Road.  Note Empire Bluffs in the background.

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South Manitou Island Lighthouse

Did You Know?
The lighthouse on South Manitou Island (Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore) was commissioned in 1872 and served Lake Michigan Shipping for over 100 years. You can take a tour of the lighthouse and climb its 117 step circular stairway to a great view of the Manitou Passage.
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Last Updated: July 13, 2006 at 09:55 MST