Discover the Breathtaking Empire Bluff Trail
Explore the Empire Bluff Trail for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes, a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Empire Bluff Trail in Honor, Michigan, offers hikers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes. Experience nature's beauty on this unforgettable trail.
A brief summary to Empire Bluff Trail
- Empire Bluff Trail, Honor, Michigan, 49640, US
- +1231-326-4700
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise and avoid crowds.
- Bring water and snacks, as the hike can be more strenuous than it appears.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to navigate the trail easily.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views from the top.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Empire Bluff Trail, start by heading to the nearest major road, M-22. From there, follow M-22 to the junction with M-109. Continue on M-22 for approximately 10 miles until you reach the town of Empire. Once in Empire, turn onto Lake Street and follow it until it becomes County Road 675. Follow County Road 675 for about 4 miles until you see the Empire Bluff Trailhead on the right side of the road. There is a parking area available, and it's free of charge.
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Public Transportation
While there is limited public transportation in the area, visitors can use the local shuttle services that run during the summer months. Check the schedule for the Leelanau Transit, which provides services from Traverse City to the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. Once you arrive in Empire, from the drop-off point, it is about a 1-mile walk to the Empire Bluff Trailhead. Follow M-22 heading south, then turn onto Lake Street which will lead you directly to the trailhead.
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Bicycle
Biking is a great way to reach Empire Bluff Trail if you're located in or near Empire. You can rent a bicycle from local shops in the area. From the village of Empire, head south on M-22, then take Lake Street towards County Road 675. The ride is approximately 4 miles and features beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules for safety.
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Walking
If you're staying in Empire, you can walk to the Empire Bluff Trailhead. It's about a 1.5-mile walk from the center of town, heading south on M-22. Once you reach the intersection with Lake Street, turn left and continue until you reach County Road 675. The trailhead will be on your right. Ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water, especially on warm days.
Discover more about Empire Bluff Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Empire Bluff
1.4 km
Discover the stunning Empire Bluff in Michigan, where breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and beautiful dunes await nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Platte Plains Trail
6.9 km
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The Sleeping Bear
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Sleeping Bear, a towering sand dune in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures amidst natural beauty.
Glen Haven Village
11.8 km
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Sleeping Bear Point
12.9 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
16.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
Port Oneida Beach
18.6 km
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Traverse Bay Tours
18.7 km
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The Barrel Room
32.9 km
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The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
32.9 km
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Left Foot Charley
33.0 km
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Arcadia Dunes Baldy Trailhead
33.1 km
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Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve
33.1 km
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The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
33.1 km
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Moonstruck Gardens
33.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Treat Farm Trail
0.7 km
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Inland Overlook
0.7 km
Discover breathtaking views at Inland Overlook, a must-visit destination in Empire Township, Michigan, showcasing the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
1.4 km
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Lake Michigan Beach Park - Village of Empire
1.5 km
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Empire Area Museum
1.6 km
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Michigan Shore to Shore Riding and Hiking Trail
1.8 km
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Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse
1.8 km
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North Bar Lake
5.0 km
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Lake Michigan Overlook
6.0 km
Experience stunning vistas and serene landscapes at Lake Michigan Overlook, a gem within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
6.6 km
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Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
6.9 km
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M-22
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of M-22, Michigan's scenic byway with stunning lake views, charming towns, and outdoor adventures for every traveler.
Cottonwood Trail
8.3 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
8.3 km
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Inspiration Point
8.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Joe's Friendly Tavern
1.3 km
Experience the best of grill cuisine at Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire – where hearty meals meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Shipwreck Cafe
1.4 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Empire Village Inn
1.5 km
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Trattoria Funistrada
10.3 km
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Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
12.1 km
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Good Harbor Grill
12.2 km
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Bear Paw Pizza & Market
12.3 km
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Blu
12.6 km
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Nonna's at The Homestead
14.9 km
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Cafe Manitou
14.9 km
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Platte River Inn
15.4 km
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Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
17.1 km
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The Cherry Hut
18.4 km
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Stone Oven
18.9 km
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Dinghy's Restaurant & Bar
23.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sleeping Bear Gallery
1.3 km
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Nature Walk Studio
1.3 km
Experience the charm of Empire, Michigan with unique gifts and local art at Nature Walk Studio, the perfect spot for memorable souvenirs.
Empire Outdoors
1.4 km
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Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
1.5 km
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Dune Center Store
9.3 km
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Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
12.1 km
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Bay Wear
12.1 km
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Evolve
12.1 km
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Arabella
12.2 km
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Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
12.2 km
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Cottage Book Shop
12.2 km
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Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
12.2 km
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The Totem Shop
12.2 km
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Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
12.2 km
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Cottonseed Apparel
12.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
34.2 km
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Low Bar
34.5 km
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Dillinger's Pub
34.6 km
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Union Street Station
34.6 km
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Brady's Bar
34.6 km
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The Pub
34.7 km
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North Bar
34.7 km
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U And I Lounge
34.8 km
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The Parlor TC
34.8 km
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Beacon Lounge
35.0 km
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SideTraxx Dance Bar
35.6 km
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Sail Inn Bar & Grill
36.2 km
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Blue Slipper Tavern
49.9 km
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Bucksnort Bar
51.5 km
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