Lauren & Logan
Lauren & Logan
Things To Do
Downtown Farmers Market
June-October:
Wednesdays 8a-12p
Saturdays 7:30a-12p
The Little Fleet
Cherry Republic
9 Bean Row
Visit the Lakeshore
You’ll need a National Parks Pass — separate from the Michigan state parks pass. You can buy it online or in-person at the scenic drive, dune climb, or the Visitor Center in Empire.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive | Sleeping Bear Dunes
The beautiful scenic drive is located off M22 highway, north of Empire.
Be sure to stop at overlook #9 and see the famous “sleeping” mama bear. Ask Lauren and she’ll show you :) it was part of her job as a park ranger in 2019, after all!
Empire Bluff Trail | Sleeping Bear Dunes
A popular sleeping bear dunes trail a few miles south of Empire.
1.5 miles round trip and moderate hike. Winds through a beech-maple forest to an overlook.
Dogs on leashes allowed!
(Photo from September 2022)
Dune Climb | Sleeping Bear Dunes
Very popular spot for families to play in the sand and see the dunes up close! Also a good spot for running up and down the sand (usually discouraged other places due to erosion and difficulty getting back up).
****The trail from dune climb to the Lake is very strenuous through the sand. It’s fun to hike through the dunes, but please bring water and warm clothes for the wind.
Pyramid Point Trail | Sleeping Bear Dunes
Beautiful trail in the northern section of the park. About 1.5 miles round trip (depending how much you continue at the top) and ends at a lovely overlook where you can see the Manitou Islands up close.
Dogs on leashes allowed!
***Please don’t hike down the dune immediately from the overlook. If you want to explore, continue along the trail to the north (right) from the overlook.