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.

 
A wooden boardwalk on a high bluff with a view of a large lake beyond.

Hiking Trails

Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore.

A green and gray tent sits in the woods behind a paved parking space.

Camping

Learn more about campground reservations at the Lakeshore.

Footprints on a snowy trail through the woods under a blue sky.

Ski and Snowshoe Trails

Check out the designated cross-country ski trails.

Looking out at Platte Bay through a pair of snowshoes
Explore the winter lakeshore

Winter fun

Sledding, ice fishing, and more!

Last updated: November 18, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630

Phone:

231 326-4700

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