Discover the Wonders of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with towering dunes, pristine beaches, and rich history along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers breathtaking views, sandy beaches, and towering dunes that invite exploration. This natural paradise is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, featuring hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for swimming and picnicking under the sun.
A brief summary to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
- 5114 Glen Haven Rd, Glen Arbor, Michigan, 49636, US
- +1231-334-3710
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities may be limited in some areas of the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for sand hiking, especially if you plan to climb the dunes.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly near the lake.
- Consider visiting the nearby town of Glen Arbor for local dining options and unique shops.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the Sleeping Bear Dunes area, head towards Glen Haven Road. From the Dune Climb, take M-109 west and then turn left onto Glen Haven Road. Continue on Glen Haven Road for about 2 miles. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station will be on your left at 5114 Glen Haven Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636. Look for the parking area adjacent to the station.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, check if there are any local shuttle services available, as public transport options are limited in this area. One potential option is to use the Leelanau Transit bus service, which may provide links to nearby towns. You will need to find the nearest bus stop and confirm if the service stops near Glen Haven Road. Once you arrive at the closest stop, you may need to walk or arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Ranger Station.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from local rental shops in Glen Arbor. From Glen Arbor, head west on M-109, then turn onto Glen Haven Road. The ride to the Ranger Station is approximately 3 miles, and the route is relatively flat, making it a pleasant ride through the scenic area. Ensure you have a bike lock to secure your bike while visiting.
Discover more about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glen Haven Village
0.0 km
Discover Glen Haven Village, a historical gem in Michigan, showcasing rich maritime heritage with charming architecture and stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point
1.5 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
The Sleeping Bear
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Sleeping Bear, a towering sand dune in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures amidst natural beauty.
Sleeping Bear Bay
4.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
Port Oneida Beach
8.0 km
Explore Port Oneida Beach, a tranquil oasis in Michigan with stunning views, soft sands, and endless outdoor adventures for all ages.
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.
Traverse Bay Tours
14.5 km
Discover Traverse Bay's hidden gems with personalized tours that offer stunning views, local culture, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Platte Plains Trail
18.7 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
24.5 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
28.2 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
33.5 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
34.1 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
34.1 km
Explore the vibrant Hippie Tree in Traverse City, Michigan, a landmark celebrating creativity, nature, and community spirit amidst stunning scenery.
The Barrel Room
34.2 km
Discover the essence of Traverse City at The Barrel Room, where exquisite wines and ciders meet a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Left Foot Charley
34.3 km
Experience the best of Traverse City at Left Foot Charley, where exceptional wines and a welcoming ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cannery Boathouse Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Cannery Boathouse Museum in Glen Haven, MI, for an unforgettable journey through maritime history with stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
0.7 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.
Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead
1.2 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse trails at Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead, a natural paradise along Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline.
Alligator Hill Trail
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, where nature's beauty and adventure await amidst stunning landscapes.
Glen Lake Beach Park
2.1 km
Experience the natural beauty of Michigan at Glen Lake Beach Park, a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Dune Climb
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Dune Climb in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty and panoramic lake views.
Dunes Trail
2.6 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
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes, a stunning nature preserve with towering sand dunes and pristine Lake Michigan views.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
2.8 km
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Michigan offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
3.7 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
3.7 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Dunes Scenic Overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where nature meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Cottonwood Trail
3.9 km
Experience the beauty of Cottonwood Trail, a hiking paradise in Glen Arbor, MI, surrounded by nature's wonders and scenic views.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
5.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan, a scenic route showcasing breathtaking views and natural wonders.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook, where nature's beauty meets adventure along Lake Michigan's stunning shoreline.
Lake Michigan Overlook
5.9 km
Experience the stunning views and serene atmosphere of Lake Michigan Overlook, a picturesque destination in Empire, Michigan, perfect for nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
2.9 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Blu
3.0 km
Experience fine dining at Blu in Glen Arbor, where New American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
3.1 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Bear Paw Pizza & Market
3.1 km
Experience delicious pizza and convenience shopping at Bear Paw Pizza & Market in beautiful Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Cafe Manitou
4.7 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Café Manitou in Glen Arbor - a perfect stop for food lovers amidst stunning natural beauty.
Nonna's at The Homestead
5.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonna's in Glen Arbor - where every meal tells a story of tradition and taste.
Trattoria Funistrada
8.8 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Empire Village Inn
10.3 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Empire Village Inn in scenic Michigan - your perfect dining destination after exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Shipwreck Cafe
10.5 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Joe's Friendly Tavern
10.7 km
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Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
14.4 km
Discover delightful local flavors at Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse in Maple City—where great food meets community spirit.
Stone Oven
24.6 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
The Cove
24.8 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Dick's Pour House
26.1 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
26.7 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of American cuisine at Platte River Inn – your cozy culinary retreat in Honor, Michigan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dune Center Store
2.7 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.
Arabella
2.8 km
Explore Arabella Jewelry in Glen Arbor for stunning handcrafted pieces and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of Michigan's beauty.
Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
3.0 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
Bay Wear
3.0 km
Explore Glen Arbor's Bay Wear for unique clothing and exceptional service in a charming boutique setting.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
3.0 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.
Evolve
3.0 km
Discover a delightful selection of books and unique gifts at Evolve, Glen Arbor's charming bookstore and gift shop.
The Totem Shop
3.0 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Cottonseed Apparel
3.1 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
3.1 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Glen Arbor, MI, offering unique art, handmade jewelry, and eclectic treasures that capture the local spirit.
Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
3.1 km
Discover the best of Michigan’s cherry delights at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, where gourmet treats and local beverages await.
Cottage Book Shop
3.1 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.
Coastal Clothing And Accessories
3.3 km
Discover the essence of coastal fashion at Coastal Clothing And Accessories, Glen Arbor's premier destination for stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
10.3 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
10.5 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
10.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
34.7 km
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
35.0 km
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Low Bar
35.4 km
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Dillinger's Pub
35.4 km
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Union Street Station
35.4 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Pub
35.6 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
North Bar
35.6 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
35.6 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
35.6 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
35.8 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
35.9 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
36.5 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
37.5 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
56.1 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
Bucksnort Bar
60.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.
