20 Attractions to Explore Near Dune Climb

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a stunning natural wonder that offers unparalleled beauty and unique experiences. Located along Lake Michigan, visitors to the area can explore miles of breathtaking sand dunes, select beaches, and woodlands filled with wildlife. Visitors can take a restorative plunge into pristine waters or wander through lush forests. No matter how an individual prefers to spend time outdoors, Sleeping Bear Dunes guarantees something special.

Glen Haven Village is the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature. Boasting miles of rolling hills and sandy Great Lakes beaches, it offers something for all levels of outdoor enthusiast – from beachcombing and hiking to fishing, boating and camping. Locals take advantage of the area's abundant wineries and orchards, while visitors can browse through museums, galleries or catch a performance at one of its charming theatre venues.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is an 8.5 mile sightseeing tour winds its way through sandy beaches, forests, sand dunes and wetlands that are part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park. The drive offers visitors a chance to view some of the region's most breathtaking scenery including Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and Rolling Hills. Visitors also have access to 15 overlooks offering breath-taking panoramic views across the forested hills and dunes below.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook in Leelanau County, Michigan is an incredible sight to behold. From atop this sand dune, visitors can admire the sweeping panorama of Lake Michigan and its many islands. Its picturesque scenery is not just beautiful – there’s also a rich history behind it. It was named by early Native Americans for the legend of a mother bear and her two cubs, who swam ashore after their canoe capsized in Lake Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Point, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. As part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this historic point offers incredible sunsets, sandy beaches that stretch for miles, and rolling dunes of sand set against views of nearby islands. Kayaking and hiking are popular activities here; visitors can paddle along the shoreline during summer months or explore the nature trails during autumn.

The Shauger Hill Trail is an expansive 6.5 mile loop that provides hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the countryside of Northport. With over 500 feet of elevation change, the trail offers a challenging climb as it weaves through tall pines, wildflowers, and other native vegetation. Along the way there are several primitive campsites for those who want to spend more than a single day exploring the hillside, which also offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Lake Michigan Overlook provides a stunning view of the lake and its shoreline. Visitors can take in all the sights and sounds of this majestic body of water right from the overlook. Whether it is gazing out across the expanse of azure blue water as far as the eye can see or taking in the sound of waves crashing against the rocky shore below, it is no wonder why this spot is so popular with locals and tourists alike.

Glen Lake Narrows is a long, narrow channel with several smaller bays along the way. Photographer favorite picturesque sunsets over the crystal-clear water and the towering pine trees that line the bank. Boaters are often spotted cutting through the channel and numerous fish species can be found in these waters. The area also has ample opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, kayaking, and canoeing.

North Bar Lake is the perfect spot for a summer getaway. It offers crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches and plenty of activities for all. There are five public access points to the lake allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty from every angle. Aside from its aquatic charms, there are multiple trails nearby that reveal lush green trees and breathtaking views any time of year. Be sure to bring your fishing gear too as North Bar Lake is known for its abundant bluegill and bass.

Glen Lake is a 3,231-acre lake, Part of the larger Lake Michigan-Huron chain, Glen Lake is home to a wide variety of fish and wildlife. It also features several sandy beaches and crystal clear waters that make it perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike and bluegill - although catching them isn't always easy! Spectacular sunsets over the lake's waters bring locals and visitors back time after time.

The Michigan Shore to Shore Trail is a continuously growing trail that spans over 137 miles and passes through three of Michigan's counties - Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee. It is composed of several connected paths that enthusiasts can explore by foot, bike, or horseback. It brings together historical sites, old growth forests, abundant wildlife and stunning shorelines along the entire length of its route.

The Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse stands sentinel over the winding shores of Leelanau County. Located on the peaceful shoreline of Good Harbor Bay, the 26-foot onion-domed lighthouse is a tribute to Robert H. Manning, a former resident of Traverse City and Korean War veteran. Constructed in 1996 as part of a local “Lighthouses for Learning” program, this beloved beacon has served as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience throughout its history.

Empire Beach is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Michigan. It has that charming small-town feel, with its quaint homes and cozy restaurants overlooking the lake. But it offers more than just relaxation; it plays host to an exciting range of activities from swimming and fishing to biking and kayaking along the shoreline. With its breathtaking sunsets and golden beaches, Empire Beach is an idyllic destination for vacationers looking for outdoor adventure or a tranquil escape.

The Empire Bluff Trail offers a breathtaking nature experience. It starts at the top of Empire Bluffs, providing hikers with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. Along the 2.6 mile trail, hikers will find many spectacular sights such as dramatic 60 foot limestone cliffs sheer rock walls, deep ravines, troughs, and dense cedar forests—all of which are reminiscent of an area untouched by time.

Esch Beach is a beautiful area that's perfect for beachgoers looking to escape the crowds. Located just a stones throw from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Crystal Lake, Esch Beach offers much more than just sunny skies and sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy browsing the local shops around town or discover some of the many outdoor activities available such as hiking trails and fishing spots.

South Manitou Island Lighthouse is one of the most iconic and breathtaking lighthouses in the country. Built in 1871, this incredible structure stands at an impressive 54 feet tall and is nestled among the trees and blue waters surrounding it. Its primary function was to provide safe passage for vessels entering Lake Michigan from 1871 until 1958. Today, it remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike who explore its surrounding nature trails.

Lime Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Located just outside the charming town of Northport on Cascade Road, Lime Lake offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding nature. Those who explore this picturesque area will find opportunities to fish and kayak, as well as to relax among the beautiful beaches that line the lake’s shores. hiking trails in nearby Sutton’s Bay Wind Park provide an exciting alternative to lounging on sunny afternoons.

The Platte Plains Trail is a beautiful and scenic path that begins in the small town of Thompsonville and ends at Honor. The 10-mile trail is ideal for hiking, as it runs adjacent to the Platte River for a large portion of the trip. You'll cross grassy open fields interspersed with groves of hardwood trees, weaving along the same paths used by settlers and merchants in the 1800s. Additionally, it's not uncommon to spot wildlife like deer, turkey, and great blue herons while traversing the trail.

Little Traverse Lake is an idyllic spot located in the northern regions of Michigan. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills, lush forest and a picturesque landscape. Its secluded nature provides a private haven for fishing, boating and swimming—all popular activities here year-round. There are also plenty of opportunities to go out on the lake in kayaks or canoes, or even have a picnic along its shoreline.

North Manitou Shoal Light Station is an iconic landmark perched on two acres of the Manitou Passage in Lake Michigan, this tall red tower has stood since 1930 and commands sweeping views of the lake. The official navigational aid still serves ships today and boasts a rich history – it was almost destroyed by fire during World War II, though it was saved just in time. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places by 1979.