• Looking out at the lake

    Sleeping Bear Dunes

    National Lakeshore Michigan

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  • Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive will not open until Memorial Day Weekend

    Changes to visitor service due to Sequestration. Due to mandatory, across-the-board budget cuts, some visitor services in this park have changed. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive will not open until Memorial Day Weekend and will close after Labor Day. More »

  • Some restrooms and trash cans not available until Memorial Day

    Changes to visitor service due to Sequestration. Other than those at the visitor center and campgrounds, restrooms and trash cans will not be available until Memorial Day Weekend and will close after Labor Day. This includes the Manitou Islands. More »

Outdoor Activities

No matter what the season, there is plenty to do at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails and many of them can be skied or snowshoed in the winter. The new Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail provides over 4 miles of paved trail for family and friends to ride bikes, walk, or ski. This trail will be groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter.

The 35 miles of mainland Lake Michigan beaches offer great swimming and sunbathing in the summer and incredible views for a quiet hike at any time of the year. Kayakers will find several good access points to Lake Michigan and for those who want to float the rivers, bring your boat or tube or rent them here and enjoy a leisurely float on the Platte or Crystal rivers.

Hunters and fishermen will also find an abundance of opportunities.

Use these pages to learn about the full range of outdoor activities available at the Lakeshore.

outdoor_activities
  • Over 100 Miles of Hiking Trails Over 100 Miles of Hiking Trails

    Get up-close and personal with the natural beauty of the Lakeshore by taking a hike. Read More

  • Camping and Backpacking Camping and Backpacking

    Choose from many camping options Read More

  • Bicycling Options Bicycling Options

    You will find several places to ride your bike in and around the Park. Read More

  • Beach Fun Beach Fun

    Enjoy the beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan or one of the inland lakes. Read More

Did You Know?

Field Trips

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a popular field trip destination for school groups.  Students can learn about geologic formation of the sand dunes, the fauna and flora that make this area home, and the logging and farming history as the area developed. More...