Discover the Serenity of Sleeping Bear Point
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Nestled in the heart of Glen Arbor Township, Michigan, Sleeping Bear Point is a stunning natural gem that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape. Known for its dramatic dunes and lush forests, this peninsula is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, enjoy a picnic on the beach, or simply take in the majestic sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. Whether you're exploring on foot or relaxing by the water, Sleeping Bear Point provides an unforgettable escape into nature's beauty.
A brief summary to Sleeping Bear Point
- Glen Arbor Township, Michigan, US
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and great photography opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the dunes, as the sand can be challenging to walk on.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, but be sure to take your trash with you to preserve the natural beauty.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly near the lake.
- Explore nearby hiking trails for a chance to see local wildlife and flora.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Sleeping Bear Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sleeping Bear Point
0.0 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Glen Haven Village
1.5 km
Explore Glen Haven Village, a historical landmark full of charm, stunning landscapes, and rich stories of Michigan's past along Lake Michigan's beautiful shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
4.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Bay, a serene escape with stunning views, outdoor adventures, and rich natural heritage in Michigan.
The Sleeping Bear
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Sleeping Bear, a stunning mountain peak offering panoramic views and outdoor adventures in Glen Arbor Township, Michigan.
Port Oneida Beach
8.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and recreational charm of Port Oneida Beach, a picturesque park on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Empire Bluff
13.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views of Empire Bluff, a stunning natural wonder in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traverse Bay Tours
15.6 km
Discover the beauty of Traverse Bay through personalized tours that showcase the region's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable flavors.
Platte Plains Trail
19.8 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
23.5 km
Discover the historic North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station, a maritime treasure surrounded by stunning natural beauty in Michigan's wilderness.
Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
28.2 km
Explore the stunning vistas and rich biodiversity of Clay Cliffs Natural Area, a premier nature preserve on Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula.
Traverse Tall Ship Company
34.7 km
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Aberdeen Stone Cottage
35.4 km
Experience the unique charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a historic indoor lodging gem in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by stunning landscapes and local attractions.
Hippie Tree
35.4 km
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The Barrel Room
35.5 km
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Left Foot Charley
35.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
0.8 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.
Cannery Boathouse Museum
1.4 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Glen Haven at the Cannery Boathouse Museum, a charming destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
1.5 km
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a natural wonder with breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history in Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
2.9 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes, a natural preserve that offers adventure, beauty, and tranquility along Lake Michigan's shores.
Alligator Hill Trail
3.0 km
Explore the stunning Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every avid hiker.
Glen Lake Beach Park
3.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Glen Lake Beach Park, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor adventures in Michigan.
Dunes Trail
3.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene hiking experiences at Dunes Trail, a jewel of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Dune Climb
3.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Dune Climb in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where towering sand dunes meet breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
4.1 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a scenic hiking paradise along Michigan's stunning Lake Michigan coastline.
Dunes Scenic Overlook
4.6 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes at the Dunes Scenic Overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan, a must-visit nature preserve for all outdoor lovers.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
4.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet the azure waters of Lake Michigan in a breathtaking natural setting.
Cottonwood Trail
4.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Cottonwood Trail in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where nature awaits with stunning landscapes and serene hiking opportunities.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
6.1 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
6.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook, where towering sand dunes meet the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan Overlook
6.7 km
Experience the stunning vistas and serene atmosphere at Lake Michigan Overlook, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Michigan.
Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
4.1 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Blu
4.1 km
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Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
4.3 km
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Bear Paw Pizza & Market
4.3 km
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Cafe Manitou
5.2 km
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Nonna's at The Homestead
5.7 km
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Trattoria Funistrada
10.2 km
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Empire Village Inn
11.4 km
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Shipwreck Cafe
11.5 km
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Joe's Friendly Tavern
11.7 km
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Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
15.6 km
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The Cove
24.8 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Stone Oven
26.1 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
Dick's Pour House
26.5 km
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Platte River Inn
27.9 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
3.7 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
4.0 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.
4.1 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
4.2 km
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Bay Wear
4.2 km
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The Totem Shop
4.2 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Evolve
4.2 km
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Cottonseed Apparel
4.2 km
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Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
4.2 km
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Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
4.3 km
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Cottage Book Shop
4.3 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
4.5 km
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Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
11.4 km
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Empire Outdoors
11.5 km
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Sleeping Bear Gallery
11.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
36.0 km
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
36.3 km
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Low Bar
36.6 km
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Dillinger's Pub
36.7 km
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Union Street Station
36.7 km
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The Pub
36.8 km
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North Bar
36.8 km
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Brady's Bar
36.8 km
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U And I Lounge
36.9 km
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The Parlor TC
37.0 km
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Beacon Lounge
37.1 km
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SideTraxx Dance Bar
37.8 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
38.7 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
56.6 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
Bucksnort Bar
62.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.
