14 Outdoors- Other to Explore in Leelanau County
Checkout places to visit in Leelanau County
Leelanau County, Michigan is located in beautiful Northwest Lower Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan. It is home to a wide variety of natural attractions including its pristine beaches, rolling vineyards and picturesque rural towns. This county is also known for their thriving agricultural economy, offering fresh produce from dozens of small farms and local orchards. Visitors can enjoy year-round outdoor activities such as biking, fishing, hiking and camping in numerous state parks and r
Activities Around
Outdoors- Other to Explore in Leelanau County
The Dune Climb is one of the most thrilling attractions in the area. Located close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, it offers a unique opportunity to see the stunning views of Lake Michigan as you ascend and descend endless stair steps. An 850 foot climb with spectacular vistas of nature awaits those bold enough to attempt this adventure. Once at the top, visitors have the chance to look out over tree-lined hills and orange sand formations that stretch across miles of beautiful scenery.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Leelanau Peninsula is known for its stunning landscape and varied recreational activities. Spanning nearly 65 miles along the coast of Lake Michigan, the peninsula boasts picturesque sand dunes, miles of beaches, lush vineyards and orchards, and rugged outdoor trails. Visitors to the area can explore one-of-a-kind lakeside towns like Leland or Northport while sampling local delicacies or take a trip up M-22 to experience incredible views of rolling countryside.
Leelanau State Park is a tranquil oasis of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy attractions like a historic lighthouse, or walk the beach where they will be surrounded by rolling sand dunes and have breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Families will appreciate the park's modern camping facilities and its extensive trail system, perfect for exploring or jogging. It's also a great spot for fishing or birdwatching - many species call the park home.
Leelanau Trail is a beautiful stretch of former railroad extending along the northwest coast of Lake Michigan. This 20-mile long trail extends from Suttons Bay to Northport and passes through many of the charming towns within the county. Taking a stroll or bike ride along this trail provides stunning views of the lake and conservation areas along its path. The natural landscape with vast rolling sand dunes, towering trees, and soft grassy fields is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Suttons Bay Beach is a picturesque spot located in the beautiful Leelanau County of Michigan. With incredible views of Lake Michigan and plenty of colorful beach sand, it's no wonder that this beach impresses all who visit. Visitors to Suttons Bay Beach can relax on the warm beach all day long or take a leisurely stroll by the shore. The nearby boardwalk is great for taking a romantic stroll with that special someone, or simply enjoying the view and fresh air.