Experience the Majestic Dune Climb: A Natural Wonder in Glen Arbor
Discover the stunning Dune Climb in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where breathtaking views and outdoor adventures await at this iconic natural landmark.
The Dune Climb in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offers tourists an exhilarating experience as they ascend towering sand dunes with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. This picturesque location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, providing a unique adventure in a stunning natural setting.
A brief summary to Dune Climb
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the sand can be challenging to walk through.
- Pack water and snacks for a break at the top while enjoying the views.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and your climbing experience.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach the Dune Climb from downtown Traverse City, start by walking to the nearest bus stop for the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA). Catch the BATA Route 10 bus heading towards Glen Arbor. The bus will take you along M-72 and then M-22, providing scenic views of the area. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop closest to the Dune Climb (the stop is labeled Dune Climb). From the bus stop, it’s a short walk (about 5 minutes) to the Dune Climb entrance.
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Biking
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Traverse City. Start your journey by heading northwest on E Front St. Follow this road as it becomes M-72 W. Continue biking on M-72 until you reach M-22. Turn left (south) on M-22, and keep biking for approximately 12 miles. Look for the signs for the Dune Climb on your right. You’ll find parking areas if you need to lock up your bike before exploring the dunes.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby and prefer walking, you can take a scenic route starting from downtown Traverse City. Head northwest on E Front St toward Boardman Ave. Continue along the Boardman River trail until you reach M-72. Follow M-72 W for about 10 miles, enjoying the beautiful views along the way. Once you reach the intersection with M-22, turn right and proceed until you see the signs for the Dune Climb. Walking will take longer, but it’s a great way to experience the local scenery.
Discover more about Dune Climb
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Sleeping Bear
2.3 km
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Glen Haven Village
2.6 km
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Sleeping Bear Point
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Sleeping Bear Bay
7.3 km
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Empire Bluff
10.0 km
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Port Oneida Beach
10.4 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
15.4 km
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Platte Plains Trail
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North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
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Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
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Traverse Tall Ship Company
33.8 km
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Hippie Tree
34.1 km
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The Barrel Room
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Aberdeen Stone Cottage
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Left Foot Charley
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dunes Trail
0.3 km
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Glen Lake Beach Park
0.6 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
1.1 km
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Dunes Scenic Overlook
1.1 km
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Cottonwood Trail
1.3 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes
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Alligator Hill Trail
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Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
2.5 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
2.6 km
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Cannery Boathouse Museum
2.7 km
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Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
2.9 km
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Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead
3.0 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
3.1 km
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Lake Michigan Overlook
3.3 km
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Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
3.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
4.4 km
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Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
4.5 km
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Bear Paw Pizza & Market
4.6 km
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Blu
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Cafe Manitou
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Nonna's at The Homestead
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Empire Village Inn
7.8 km
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Shipwreck Cafe
8.0 km
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Joe's Friendly Tavern
8.1 km
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Trattoria Funistrada
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Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
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Stone Oven
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Platte River Inn
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The Cove
27.1 km
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The Cherry Hut
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dune Center Store
0.1 km
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Arabella
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Bay Wear
4.4 km
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Evolve
4.4 km
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Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
4.5 km
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Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
4.5 km
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Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
4.5 km
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The Totem Shop
4.5 km
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Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
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Cottonseed Apparel
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Cottage Book Shop
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Coastal Clothing And Accessories
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Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
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Empire Outdoors
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Sleeping Bear Gallery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
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Low Bar
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Dillinger's Pub
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Union Street Station
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Brady's Bar
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The Pub
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North Bar
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U And I Lounge
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The Parlor TC
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Beacon Lounge
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SideTraxx Dance Bar
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Sail Inn Bar & Grill
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A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
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Bucksnort Bar
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