Sleeping Bear Point, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  If you're traveling by car within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, start by heading to the Visitor Center located at 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630. From the Visitor Center, take M-22 north for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Crystal Lake Road, then continue for about 2 miles until you reach the Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead parking area on your right. Parking is free, but please check for any seasonal changes in availability.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, the nearest bus service is provided by the Leelanau Transit. You can catch the bus from Glen Arbor to the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center. Once at the Visitor Center, you will need to either walk or use a rideshare service (if available) to get to the Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead. The distance from the Visitor Center to the trailhead is about 2 miles, which may take approximately 30-40 minutes to walk. Ensure to check the bus schedule ahead of time for the most current timings and routes.

• Biking

  If you enjoy biking, you can bike the scenic route from the Visitor Center to Sleeping Bear Point. After reaching the Visitor Center, follow the paved trails that connect to M-22 and then Crystal Lake Road. The distance is about 2 miles on a mostly flat terrain, providing a lovely ride through the park. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local biking regulations.

• Hiking

  For the more adventurous, you can hike to Sleeping Bear Point from the Visitor Center. Start your hike on the Sleeping Bear Point Trail, which is approximately a 2-mile loop. This scenic trail offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and leads directly to the point. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, as the trail can be sandy and may have some elevation changes.