Hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an incredible experience! If you are visiting this area, there are a ton of things to see and do. However, getting out on one of the great hikes in the park is something that you need to be sure to make time for!
It really is hard (dare say impossible!) to narrow down what the best hike in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is. However, we hope this guide will help you identify the best hike for you and your individual situation. In this guide, we’ll cover each hike in detail with trail maps, a description of what you can expect on each trail, directions to the trailheads as well as how best to be prepared for each hike. If you are more interested in a broader blog on the park, check out our article on Things to Do in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore!
Before your download a copy of our itinerary for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! We cover all you need to know about visiting the park and include maps, hikes and more!
HIKING IN SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE: PREPARATION
Being prepared for hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes is a bit different than most National Park Lands, as the hikes are not overly long and don’t require a lot of climbing. But there are a few things that you need to be sure you do ahead of each hike:
- First of all, you need to be sure you bring plenty of water. Most of the trails here involve some sand, and traveling through the sand is a bit more challenging than hiking on dirt or gravel like many of the other parks. It can also be quite warm here in the summertime, with temperatures easily reaching into the 80s and sometimes into the 90s.
- Each trail has some sun exposure, and some trails are in the sun the entire time. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat and sunblock to protect yourself.
- Thunderstorms in the area can be quite common, so check the weather ahead of time to be sure you are not going to be caught while out hiking.
BEST HIKES IN SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE: TRAIL DESCRIPTIONS AND TRAIL MAPS
DUNE CLIMB TRAIL
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Distance (round-trip): 3.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 645 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 3 to 4 hours
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure, exhaustion from walking through sand
- Restrooms: Toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Sandals with socks or hiking shoes.
- Pets: Not allowed (this is the only hike where they aren’t allowed).
Dune Climb Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This is one of the best-known hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes, but it’s not for everyone. The Dune Climb (to the beach and back) is the most strenuous hike in the park, and you’ll be hiking through sand the entire way. It starts off with a difficult 300-foot climb up loose sand to the top of the first dune. If you decide to travel beyond that, you’ll have to go up and down five more dunes before reaching the beach on the shore of Lake Michigan.
After enjoying the lakeshore, you’ll need to return the way you came. Rescues are not uncommon, especially during the summer months, when visitors underestimate the difficulty of hiking in the sand and heat. Each rescue costs the person helped thousands of dollars. So, if you do attempt the Dune Climb, make sure you are physically fit and properly equipped (with water, food, sunscreen, and proper shoes) for a long hike in sand.
Dune Climb Trail Highlights
- Unique Experience: Hiking the dunes is a very unique thing to do no matter where you are from. Getting to the top and seeing the panoramic views are amazing!
- Fun for Kids: This hike isn’t for all kids, but if they have a lot of energy, some kids will find this hike to be incredibly fun since it combines sand with a hike!
Dune Climb Trail Challenges
- Exhausting: Okay, time for some straight talk! This hike is not easy. You may be questioning your life choices as to why you did to end up on this hike. But that’s only if you aren’t prepared. Just take it slow and don’t go when it’s too hot and you’ll be fine.
- Crowds: Many more take on this hike than you might expect. So just be prepared for there to be a lot of people here. Arrive early in the day to beat the heat and the crowds.
Trailhead Directions
The entrance to the parking area for the Dune Climb is located north of Empire on MI-109. Dogs are not permitted on the Dune Climb.
PYRAMID POINT LOOP TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 2.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 540 feet
- Hiking time (approximate):5 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Pyramid Point Loop Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This was another one of our trails. We recommend hiking this loop trail (with spur to the lookout) in the clockwise direction. Follow the trail 0.6 miles uphill to a lookout at the top of Pyramid Point with views looking out over Lake Michigan. To protect the bluff (and for your safety), the NPS asks that you enjoy the view from the lookout.
From the viewpoint, backtrack 0.2 miles to the trail junction to follow a beautiful loop through maple/beech forests and a meadow. The last 0.4 miles of the loop follows Basch Road back to the trailhead. Another option is to skip the loop and make this a 1.2-mile out-and-back from the trailhead to Pyramid Point.
If you only have time for an easy, family-friendly hike while visiting Pictured Rocks, check out the Miners Falls Trail. This out-and-back hike follows a gently rolling, dirt and gravel path through the forest to Miners River, where the 50-foot waterfall drops over a sandstone outcrop. Be sure to take the stairs down to the lower platform for an up-close view of Miners Falls.
Pyramid Point Trail Highlights
- Diverse Scenery: Many of the hikes in Sleeping Bear Dunes involve sand. This has a bit of it, but it also has forests and open fields that are just so pretty and really break up the hike.
- Amazing Lake Views: The views of Lake Michigan from Pyramid Point are stellar! It’s a steep drop-off that leads down to the super-clear water, so it’ll be worth the trip.
Pyramid Point Trail Challenges
- Steep Sections: The hike up to Pyramid Point overlook is quite steep. It’s doable, but just be prepared for a bit of work up to the top.
- Limited Parking: Given the number of people that hike this trail, the parking area is quite small. Like always, if you want to be sure you get a chance to do this hike, we recommend arriving a bit early.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead is located on Basch Road, just north of Port Oneida. Allow 1.5-2 hours for this hike.
SLEEPING BEAR POINT TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 2.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 300 feet
- Hiking time (approximate):5 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Sleeping Bear Point Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This moderate loop hike (with a spur trail to the edge of Lake Michigan) has a lot to offer—as long as you don’t mind hiking on loose, sandy terrain. Enjoy beautiful views of rolling dunes and Lake Michigan, plus the Manitou Islands in the distance.
We hiked the loop in the counterclockwise direction; however, many say the clockwise direction (with a start at the trailhead near the bathroom) is the less strenuous path and saves the Lake Michigan views for last.
When on the dunes, pay close attention to the blue trail markers since it can be easy to lose the trail in the sand. If you plan to hike in the summer, be prepared with water and sun protection since this hike is fully exposed (except for one brief forested section.
This trail is closed to pets from April 15 through August 15 to protect the endangered Great Lakes Piping Plover.
Sleeping Bear Point Trail Highlights
- Trail Diversity: The trail starts and ends by walking through a forested area, which provides a bit of relief from the sun as well as interesting trees to check out.
- Lack of Crowds: This trail is in a bit of a quieter part of the park and is less crowded than the Dune Climb Trail. It’s actually a better option in our opinion if you don’t want to work too hard but get amazing views!
Sleeping Bear Point Trail Challenges
- Navigation Challenges: The trail is marked with blue markers, but you do have to look ahead to see them sometimes and it can be a bit difficult. You also may not have footprints to help out, depending on the time of day and the presence of wind.
- Limited Facilities: There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, but no water. Be sure to bring plenty of it before you head out on this hike!
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead is located at the end of West Sleeping Bear Drive, just east of Glen Haven.
COTTONWOOD TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 1.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 180 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 1 hour
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: No toilets at the trailhead or on the trail. The closest location is stop #2 on Pierce Stocking Drive.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Cottonwood Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This loop trail heads through sand and starts downhill as you make your way to the overlook at the 0.7-mile point. From here you’ll have views of the Dune Climb as well as Glen Lake to the east. It’s not hard, but since it’s in sand you can expect to work a bit as you climb back up.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts at stop 4 on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
BAY VIEW LOOP TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 5.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 480 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 3 to 4 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: There are no restrooms at the trailhead or on the trail. You can head to the Heritage Trail in Port Onieda for the nearest restroom before or after your hike.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Trail Description
Start by heading counterclockwise (north) and you’ll follow the top of the dunes. Near the northernmost point of the trail, you’ll get to a great lookout. From here, you can turn back (and make it a 3.2-mile (round-trip) hike, or continue on the loop by heading toward MI-22 and then south.
This southerly route is shared with the Heritage Trail, and travels right along the highway, which some people don’t enjoy (though it is flat). The trail then heads back to the parking area and up the bluffs at the 4.8-mile point.
Bay View Loop Trail Highlights
- Great Views: On this hike you’ll have terrific views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands.
- Wildlife Viewing: While you are not guaranteed to see wildlife, the diverse terrain attracts deer, birds and other wildlife. Keep your eyes out!
Bay View Loop Trail Challenges
- Hiking along the Highway: The Heritage Trail does go right near a road, which can be a bit noisy. The rest of the hike does make up for it, though!
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts on the south end of South Thoreson Road, which is just of MI-22.
BIG GLEN LOOKOUT TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 4.3 miles
- Elevation gain: 446 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 2.5 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: No restrooms are located at the trailhead or on the trail.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Big Glen Lookout Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This loop trail has a diversion to the Big Glen Lookout. Start by taking a left at the fork and you’ll have the steeper climb at the beginning of the hike, which most people like. Still, it’s not that steep, with the majority of the grade occurring over the first 1.3 miles.
There is a viewpoint at mile 1.4 (with Lake Michigan), and then another one at mile-2.2 with views of Glen Lake, reached by taking the Big Glen Lookout trail, which is about 0.75-miles of flat trail out to the lookout.
Head back to the junction with the easy loop and continue on the loop back to the parking area. You can skip the second overlook and it cuts out 1.5-miles from the hike.
Big Glen Lookout Trail Highlights
- Great Views: The scenery from the Big Glen Lookout has great views of Big Glen Lake, Little Glen Lake and Lake Michigan.
- Less Crowded: While a popular trail, this hike is quieter than many of the others, allowing you’re a bit of peace.
Big Glen Lookout Trail Challenges
- Limited Parking: Once again, the parking area is quite small. It will be hard to find a spot on the weekends in particular.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts on Stocking Road, just north of the intersection with Day Farm Road on Stocking Road.
EMPIRE BLUFF TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 1.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 175 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 1 hour
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure (but only at the end of the trail)
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Empire Bluff Trail map, courtesy of the National Park Service
Trail Description
This trail is one you don’t want to miss! Travel through a hilly forested section to reach the first lookout which faces north towards South Bar Lake, Lake Michigan, and the southern portion of Sleeping Bear Dune. Continue uphill to reach a wooden boardwalk that runs along Empire Bluff, perched 400 feet above Lake Michigan.
The Empire Bluff overlook provides some of the best views in the park; and, on a clear day, you can see all the way to South Manitou Island. It’s also an amazing place to catch a stunning Lake Michigan sunset! Allow an hour for this hike, or more if you plan to enjoy the sunset.
Empire Bluff Trail Highlights
- Amazing Sunsets: The colors from this spot around sunset are really special. The sun lights up the cliffs, providing a view unlike any other in the area.
- Short: Many of the hikes in Sleeping Bear Dunes are a longer than this and require a lot more effort to get panoramic views. This one is fairly short and has an amazing payoff!
Empire Bluff Trail Challenges
- Limited Parking: This trail is pretty popular and the parking area can fill up, particularly around sunset on a busy day.
- Muddy at Times: The trail isn’t too wet after it rains, but there are spots that can become a bit muddy and uneven. They have done work to improve this, but just keep your eyes out when hiking to be sure you don’t trip or get too dirty!
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts from Wilco Road, about 1 mile west of MI-22, just south of the town of Empire, MI.
TREAT FARM TRAIL
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 2.3 miles
- Elevation gain: 240 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 75 to 90 minutes
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: No toilets on the trailhead or on the trail.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Trail Description
The trail starts by heading west and travels slowly up the dunes before getting to the steep climb as you head to the overlook. This has amazing views from the dunes, as the slope here to Lake Michigan is very steep. The trail is less popular than the Empire Bluffs Trail, but a bit more difficult to hike.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts at the northwest corner of Norconk Road, which is just west of MI-22, about 3 miles south of Empire, MI.
BLACK AND GREEN ARROW LOOP TRAIL
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance (round-trip): 3.1 miles
- Elevation gain: 80 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 1.5 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Trail Description
This loop trail starts by heading straight north from the parking area and onto the Black Arrow Trail. You’ll reach the viewpoint at the 1.4-mile point, where you can see the dunes and North and South Manitou Islands. You can continue to the shore from here before turning back on the Green Arrow Trail as you head back to the parking lot.
Black and Green Arrow Loop Trail Highlights
- Varied Terran and Scenery: There is a good mix of forests, meadows and views of Lake Michigan!
- Quiet Beach Access: There is a small spur which allows you to get to the beach. This area is very quiet, and you can often have the beach to yourself or just a few others.
Black and Green Arrow Loop Challenges
- Muddy at times: The trail can be muddy after the rain.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts on MI-22 at the intersection with Sutter Road at the southern end of the Lakeshore near Long Lake.
NORTH MANITOU ISLAND LOOP
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 13.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 650 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 8 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure, bugs
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes or hiking boots.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times
Trail Description
This loop trail hits many of the highlights of North Manitou Island, including the Village Area, South Cherry Orchard, the Crescent Dock area and various camps along the way. Most do this trail as a multi-day backpacking adventure.
The highlight of the hike is being on the west coast of the island for sunsets! Be advised that it can be crowded in the camping areas on the weekends in the summertime. You can add on and make it a 16.5-mile hike if you head all the way to the southern part of the island, but most hikers cut across the middle part of the island.
North Manitou Island Loop Trail Highlights
- Pristine Wilderness: While on this hike, you’ll feel remote! The scenery includes forests, beaches and more.
- Camping Availability: There are numerous campsites along the trail, making it great for backpacking. You’ll love camping out here!
North Manitou Island Loop Trail Challenges
- Limited Facilities: There is no drinking water out here, so you have to come prepared with your own or plan to filter the water. You also need to be sure you have all of your necessary supplies!
- Buggy: The bugs don’t have to worry about getting on the ferry…they are already out here! Bring bug spray.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts at the Village Area (near the Ferry drop off) on North Manitou Island. You do have to book a ferry ticket to North Manitou Island, which we recommend doing well in advance.
FLORENCE LAKE LOOP (WITH MORAZAN SHIPWRECK)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance (round-trip): 6.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 145 feet
- Hiking time (approximate): 4 hours
- Trail type: Loop
- Potential hazards: Sun exposure, bugs
- Restrooms: Pit toilets located at the trailhead.
- Recommended footwear: Closed-toed shoes or hiking boots.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times
Trail Description
The hike starts by heading on the trail on the south side of the island. At the 0.3-mile point you’ll come across the lighthouse, which is a beautiful 100-foot structure that was active until 1958. You can climb to the top for an amazing view.
Continue on the trail west and take the small diversion to the Wreck of the Francisco Morazan, which you can easily see from the trail. Retrace your steps for about 0.4-mile before turning north and passing by Florence Lake. As the trail heads north you’ll climb up the dunes to an incredible 360-degree view. Head east from here and check out the docks before returning to the village area.
Trailhead Directions
The trailhead starts at the ranger station at the ferry drop-off. You do have to book a ferry ticket to South Manitou Island, which we recommend doing well in advance.
THE BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIKES IN SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE
Most of the trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes are not overly challenging, so there are a good number of hikes that work well for those (like us!) with families. Here are a few of our recommendations.
- Empire Bluff Trail (short with a good spot to take a break and watch the sunset)
- Pyramid Point Loop Trail (though a bit steep at spots, the varying terrain and landscape is super interesting for kids-plus, you can cut the hike short if you want)
- Cottonwood Trail (relatively flat, plus you get a chance to see people climbing the dunes)
ARE PETS ALLOWED ON THE TRAILS AT SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE?
Pets are allowed on nearly all the trails, but not allowed on the Dunes Climb Trail. If you do take them, you are required to keep them on a leash six-feet or less at all times.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO HIKE AT SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE?
Hiking in the latter part of summer is what we prefer. The bugs are typically not as bad as they are earlier in the summer, and the evenings tend to be a bit cooler than in the peak of summer. The only main issue with hiking during this time of year is the crowds can be a bit worse than the fall.
You can also enjoy hiking all summer if you come prepared for the bugs. Springtime can be a bit wet with the snow melt off.
HIKING IN SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE IN THE WINTER
Winter is a great time to visit the park if you want to get away from the crowds. However, this area does get quite a bit of snow (and cold weather coming off Lake Michigan), so you need to be prepared. We recommend foot traction (micro spikes at a minimum) and consider bringing snowshoes.
Some of the trails are great for cross-country skiing too, including the Black and Green Arrow Loop Trail.
FURTHER INFORMATION ON SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE FROM JUST GO TRAVEL STUDIOS
- Be sure to check out our article on Things to Do in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore as well as our article on Camping in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
- Upon returning from your trip, shoot us a photo and we’ll create a custom, vintage-style poster using your photo and customized wording!
