Discover the Majestic Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Michigan offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience through the stunning landscapes of Michigan, with breathtaking views of the dunes and Lake Michigan. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this trail is a must-visit for tourists exploring the area.
A brief summary to Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
- Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, Empire, Michigan, 49630, US
- +1231-941-2324
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the sunrise over Lake Michigan.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the longer sections of the trail.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some areas can be sandy and uneven.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views are spectacular at every turn!
- Check for local events or guided tours that may enhance your experience along the trail.
Getting There
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Car
If you are starting from the Visitor Center in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, head southwest on M-22 towards Empire. After approximately 10 miles, follow the signs for Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. The trailhead is located just outside the town of Empire, and you can park at the designated parking area. Note that parking may require a National Park pass, so be prepared for that additional cost.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, check for local shuttle services that operate within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. From the nearest bus stop in Empire, you may need to walk approximately 1 mile to reach the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Ensure to check the schedule in advance, as services may be limited and may require planning to align with your visit.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can rent a bike in nearby Glen Arbor. Take the paved Heritage Trail from Glen Arbor towards Empire. The trail is well-marked and offers scenic views, making it a pleasant ride. This option allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Remember to wear a helmet and bring water along for your ride.
Discover more about Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glen Haven Village
2.8 km
Discover Glen Haven Village, a historical gem in Michigan, showcasing rich maritime heritage with charming architecture and stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point
4.1 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
4.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
The Sleeping Bear
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Sleeping Bear, a towering sand dune in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures amidst natural beauty.
Port Oneida Beach
7.1 km
Explore Port Oneida Beach, a tranquil oasis in Michigan with stunning views, soft sands, and endless outdoor adventures for all ages.
Traverse Bay Tours
11.9 km
Discover Traverse Bay's hidden gems with personalized tours that offer stunning views, local culture, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Empire Bluff
12.5 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
18.2 km
Discover the tranquil Platte Plains Trail in Michigan, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
25.4 km
Explore the North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station, a historic landmark revealing the rich maritime heritage amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
27.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Clay Cliffs Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on the Leelanau Peninsula with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Traverse Tall Ship Company
30.7 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Houdek Dunes Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
30.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Houdek Dunes Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on Leelanau Peninsula, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying stunning Lake Michigan views.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
31.3 km
Experience the charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a unique indoor lodging in Traverse City, MI, blending historic elegance with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay.
Hippie Tree
31.4 km
Explore the vibrant Hippie Tree in Traverse City, Michigan, a landmark celebrating creativity, nature, and community spirit amidst stunning scenery.
The Barrel Room
31.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Alligator Hill Trail
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, where nature's beauty and adventure await amidst stunning landscapes.
Cannery Boathouse Museum
2.8 km
Explore the Cannery Boathouse Museum in Glen Haven, MI, for an unforgettable journey through maritime history with stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet pristine Lake Michigan for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Glen Lake Beach Park
3.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Michigan at Glen Lake Beach Park, a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
3.5 km
Explore the maritime legacy of the Great Lakes at the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, where history meets stunning natural beauty.
Dune Climb
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Dune Climb in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty and panoramic lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead
3.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse trails at Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead, a natural paradise along Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline.
Dunes Trail
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dunes Trail, a premier hiking destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan, showcasing stunning views of Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
4.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet pristine beaches and endless outdoor adventures await.
Dunes Scenic Overlook
4.8 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Dunes Scenic Overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where nature meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
4.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes, a stunning nature preserve with towering sand dunes and pristine Lake Michigan views.
Cottonwood Trail
5.0 km
Experience the beauty of Cottonwood Trail, a hiking paradise in Glen Arbor, MI, surrounded by nature's wonders and scenic views.
Inspiration Point
5.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Glen Lake and Sleeping Bear Dunes at Inspiration Point, a must-visit scenic overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
5.7 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan, a scenic route showcasing breathtaking views and natural wonders.
Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear
6.5 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes at Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear, a unique nonprofit heritage museum in Michigan.
Essential places to dine
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
0.6 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Good Harbor Grill
0.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Bear Paw Pizza & Market
0.8 km
Experience delicious pizza and convenience shopping at Bear Paw Pizza & Market in beautiful Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Blu
1.0 km
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Cafe Manitou
3.4 km
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Nonna's at The Homestead
3.5 km
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Trattoria Funistrada
6.2 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Empire Village Inn
10.2 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Empire Village Inn in scenic Michigan - your perfect dining destination after exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Shipwreck Cafe
10.3 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Joe's Friendly Tavern
10.6 km
Experience the best of grill cuisine at Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire – where hearty meals meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
11.6 km
Discover delightful local flavors at Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse in Maple City—where great food meets community spirit.
Stone Oven
22.3 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
The Cove
23.4 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Dick's Pour House
24.2 km
Discover the charm of family-friendly dining at Dick's Pour House in Lake Leelanau - where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Platte River Inn
25.6 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of American cuisine at Platte River Inn – your cozy culinary retreat in Honor, Michigan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bay Wear
0.6 km
Explore Glen Arbor's Bay Wear for unique clothing and exceptional service in a charming boutique setting.
Evolve
0.6 km
Discover a delightful selection of books and unique gifts at Evolve, Glen Arbor's charming bookstore and gift shop.
Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
0.6 km
Discover the best of Michigan’s cherry delights at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, where gourmet treats and local beverages await.
Arabella
0.6 km
Explore Arabella Jewelry in Glen Arbor for stunning handcrafted pieces and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of Michigan's beauty.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
0.7 km
Discover Anderson's Glen Arbor Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, local beers, gourmet deli items, and delicious pizza takeout in Glen Arbor, MI.
Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
0.7 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Glen Arbor, MI, offering unique art, handmade jewelry, and eclectic treasures that capture the local spirit.
The Totem Shop
0.7 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
0.7 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
Cottage Book Shop
0.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of literature at the Cottage Book Shop, a cozy bookstore in Glen Arbor, Michigan, perfect for book lovers and casual readers alike.
Cottonseed Apparel
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Coastal Clothing And Accessories
1.0 km
Discover the essence of coastal fashion at Coastal Clothing And Accessories, Glen Arbor's premier destination for stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Dune Center Store
4.0 km
Discover the Dune Center Store, a charming bookstore near Sleeping Bear Dunes offering literature, maps, and gifts that celebrate the natural beauty of Michigan.
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
10.2 km
Discover the taste of artisanal chocolates at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop in Empire, Michigan, where every bite is a celebration of quality and flavor.
Empire Outdoors
10.3 km
Discover outdoor essentials and unique gifts at Empire Outdoors, your go-to store near Sleeping Bear Dunes for all adventure seekers.
Sleeping Bear Gallery
10.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
32.0 km
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
32.3 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Low Bar
32.6 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
32.7 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
Union Street Station
32.7 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Pub
32.8 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
North Bar
32.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
Brady's Bar
32.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
U And I Lounge
32.9 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
The Parlor TC
33.0 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Beacon Lounge
33.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
33.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
34.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
54.0 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
Bucksnort Bar
58.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.