Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

About Sleeping Bear Dunes

Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history.

Hours

Entrance fees

An America the Beautiful pass covers the entrance fee at every site that charges one.

Getting there

From the south (Detroit or Chicago areas) :Take US-31, US-131, US-27 to M-115 & M-37, I-75 and M-72 North to Traverse City, then west on M-72 to the Village of Empire. You will see the visitor center as you enter Empire on your right. You may also get to Empire from the south via US-31 to Ludington and then north to Manistee. You can follow either US-31 or M-22 from north of Manistee. From the north (Michigan's Upper Peninsula), take I-75 to Grayling and follow M-72 to Traverse City or take US-31 south

Weather

Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from from 50 F to 83 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plenty of water--heat exhaustion is common, especially when hiking on the dunes. Fall: Temperatures range from 40 F to 70 F. Fall foliage is at its peak around mid September. Winter: Temperatures range from 15 F to 40 F. Snow is common and is on the ground for most of the winter. Dress in warm layers.

Things to do

Astronomy, Auto and ATV, Backcountry Camping, Biking, Birdwatching, Bookstore and Park Store, Camping, Canoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Freshwater Swimming, Group Camping, Guided Tours, Hiking, Hunting, Hunting and Gathering, Junior Ranger Program, Kayaking, Paddling, Scenic Driving, Self-Guided Tours - Auto, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Shopping, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Stargazing, Swimming, Tubing, Wildlife Watching.