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
Discover Glen Haven Village, a historical gem in Michigan, showcasing rich maritime heritage with charming architecture and stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Bay
4.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
The Sleeping Bear
5.3 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
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
13.5 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
15.6 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
19.8 km
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North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
23.5 km
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Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
28.2 km
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Traverse Tall Ship Company
34.7 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
35.4 km
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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
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Cannery Boathouse Museum
1.4 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
1.5 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes
2.9 km
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Alligator Hill Trail
3.0 km
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Glen Lake Beach Park
3.3 km
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Dunes Trail
3.5 km
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Dune Climb
3.6 km
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Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
4.1 km
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Dunes Scenic Overlook
4.6 km
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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.
Cottonwood Trail
4.7 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
6.1 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
6.5 km
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Lake Michigan Overlook
6.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
4.1 km
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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
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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
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dune Center Store
3.7 km
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Sail Inn Bar & Grill
38.7 km
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A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
56.6 km
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Bucksnort Bar
62.1 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sleeping Bear Bay Club
15.6 km
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Encore 201
36.8 km
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Sequanota Club
76.7 km
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Charlevoix Rod & Gun Club
80.5 km
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HarBar
87.1 km
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Sister Bay Bowl
90.5 km
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The Alley Bar
90.5 km
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Zonta Club of Petoskey Area
97.9 km
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Mitchell Street Pub
99.1 km
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Noggin Room Pub
99.2 km
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Little Harbor Club
99.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Little Harbor Club, where unforgettable experiences and lively entertainment await in Harbor Springs, Michigan.
