sleeping bear dunes winter

High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. The trail north of Glen Arbor from Crystal View trailhead to Port Oneida Road is open for skiing. From here, the human eye can see about 25 miles before losing sight over the curvature of the earth. Although the house itself is gorgeous and the rooms are very cozy, their delicious breakfast steals the show. TIP 2: Do NOT descend the bluff. Sleeping Bear Dunes tours, 2023 Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau. However, youre still going to need to traverse up and down the steep, rugged dunes in your snow gear, making for a long and challenging, but worthwhile hike. Couples can enjoy a leisurely ski together and take in the peaceful winter scenery. If you time your visit right, you can enjoy the annual Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival, which typically happens in September, and is a weekend packed with tons of outdoor adventures. Last updated: March 6, 2023 Was this page helpful? Located on M-22 and Port Oneida Road.The first-ever maple sugaring event at the Lakeshore. Led by rangers and offered for free, the hikes are open to all . The park offers guided snowshoe hikes as well as self-guided hikes via the NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes app on your phone. If youre looking for a bit more of a challenge during a Sleeping Bear Dunes winter day trip, give the Old Indian and Alligator Hill trails a try. But youre still a long way from Lake Michigan, which is 1.5 miles away. If you snowshoe or hike on backcountry trails, please stay out of the ski tracks. If your Top Winter Things To Do include snow, consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes region in Northwest Michigan. Tweets & replies. Sledding and tubing: The Dune Climb is a popular spot for sledding and tubing during the winter months. The Empire Bluff Trail is a picture-perfect site to see all year round, but especially so in the winter months. Zehnders Snowfest: Every January, Frankenmuth hosts the Zehnders Snowfest, a winter festival that includes snow and ice sculpting competitions, live music, food, and more. Directions Find your way to the Lakeshore by car, plane, or bus. While most of the trails fall into the easy to moderate category, Sleeping Bear Point and the Dunes Hiking Trail are the two most strenuous paths. Frequently mentioned favorites include the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving. 101 West Grandview Parkway, Traverse City, MI 49684; T: 231-947-1120 or 1-800-872-8377 info@TraverseCity.com As a result, couples can spend a romantic afternoon browsing the galleries and admiring the art. Enjoy! The trail from Glen Arbor to the Dune Climb (4 miles) is relatively flat with beautiful scenery. Only to treat them to a hike so icy that even our spikes and yaktrax and cleats could not stop our slide on the hilly trail. Couples can rent equipment . A post shared by Heather Higham (@snaphappymichigan) on Nov 7, 2019 at 3:21pm PST, Winter adventure along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. We got 2-3 of fresh powder last night. Mackinaw Island is a beautiful and romantic destination with plenty of activities for couples. Explore the sleeping bear dunes. Couples can sample the local beer and enjoy a romantic evening at one of the areas brewery restaurants. You might see mink or otters, and theres usually waterfowl, she said. You dont have to do the whole thing, she says -- even just a portion can provide a great outing. This section will be groomed with one set of classic tracks to allow for wide corduroy for skate skiing. An avid traveler around Michigan, Casey enjoys gardening and running. If the reroute wasnt enough, the mornings icy trail would be a remake of last years mistake. Winter festivals: Saugatuck hosts several winter festivals throughout the season, including the Winterfest and the Chili Cook-Off. Another rare treat, as there are often too many people to see the wildlife along the trail. Visiting the Lakeshore? You can read our complete privacy policy here. If you are looking for a romantic winter getaway, then Michigan has a lot to offer for couples. Ice skating: Traverse City has several outdoor ice skating rinks, including one in the towns downtown area. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is pleased to announce that they will be recruiting additional winter interns for the 2021/2022 season to assist with snowshoe field trips, weekend hikes, and virtual distance learning programs. You may have to remove your skis to cross M-109 and in Glen Haven. . The Park designates many areas and summer hiking trails to be groomed and prepped for ideal skiing and winter sporting activities. We typically get more snow than even Traverse City which is located only 15 miles away. In addition to the marked public trails, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is open all winter. Trails include Old Indian Trail, Platte Plains, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Windy Moraine, Alligator Hill, and Bay View Trail. Additionally, there are annual passes and free entrance days too (Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the only day in winter) that are completely free for all guests. Would you like to volunteer to help out on the trails? Located about 5 miles north of Empire, conquering this 245-foot dune is at least a bit easier in the winter when the temperatures have firmed up the ground and replaced the sand with snow. Instead, stay up high along the ridge and take in the world from the viewpoint that only the Sleeping Bear Dunes can give you! An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the parks rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to grab any trail maps you need. There are several rental companies in the area, and couples can explore the snowy trails and forests together. See the wonderful captioned multimedia presentation and exhibits. Once the temperatures drop, cozy little ice fishing shelters pop up all over the frozen lakes. AAt first look, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore seems familiar to kids. And if you dont see the animal, youll see tracks or scat or other signs., Bauman says she enjoys winter hiking, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing Aral Road in the park for the express purpose of spotting critters, because the roads proximity to Otter Creek means theres often animals around. Northern Michigan is a site to see any time of year, but the dunes are a must-do activity for the whole family in the wintertime. Theres no need to stay cooped up inside when you have 65 miles of shoreline and 100 miles of trails stretching from Empire to Glen Arbor to experience. Located just 30 minutes from Traverse City, Sleeping BearDunes is perfect for a winter romantic getaway, a kid friendlyoutdoor adventureor even family reunions and holiday events. Its nearly impossible to get completely lost in Sleeping Bear Dunes because the park is bordered on one side by Lake Michigan and the M22 on the other. Glen Arbor to Port Oneida Road (although there are a few hills in this section, they arent too long or steep. The 7.5-mile loop through the snow-covered beech-maple forest features the iconic Covered Bridge near the beginning of the trail, and tons of overlooks with incredible views of the dunes, Lake Michigan, and Glen Lakes. Winter is a great time because the animals are easier to see. 41 Wineries, 30 Breweries and Taprooms and 18 Cider Houses and Distilleries. These giant bikes can maneuver almost any terrain and all the trails that are open for cycling in the summer are open to fat-tire bikes in the winter. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the parks rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. If you have younger children, they are welcome to join their adult drivers in either 2 person or 4 person dune buggy rentals. MI If youre visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes in winter and looking for fun winter activities, youve come to the right place. Sledding is permitted at the Dune Climb in the designated area only when it is covered with snow. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore hugs the northeast shore of Lake Michigan in the northern region of the state. Id recommend bringing some Yak Tracks or Micro-spikes and hiking poles just in case you find the trails icy. Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the best place for cross-country skiing in all of northern Michigan. As we climbed the last little stretch to the boardwalk over Lake Michigan, I saw a deer skitter across the forest. Crosscountry ski or snow- shoe throughout the park or join a ranger . 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Boots with shoe chains or snowshoes are recommended for the current trail conditions. The views are breathtaking, and the trails vary in difficulty so you will be able to choose between a leisurely stroll or a more challenging, but satisfying, trek. This section will be groomed again this year. Uncover the beauty of the snow-covered conifer forest, abandoned farm site meadows, and frozen lakes in Sleeping Bear Dunes winter hiking trails. Hike past beech-maple forest and open fields on this fairly easy but somewhat hilly trail. The lakeshore is also known as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and it's been part of the park system since 1970. Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (13), Carlyn (10), Naomi (7), and a wife to her loving husband, Chancellor. Explore this page to start planning your visit to the Lakeshore. But, hey, you're on a schedule and this is a must-do experienceso here are some highlights that are well worth your limited time. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. Yet activities are abundant and the Lakeshore remains a wonderful place to explore. Many travelers choose to stay in Empire or Glen Arbor because of the proximity to the park and the greater range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, motels, cabin rentals, and resorts. You can pick up an ice auger permit for free at the visitor center. By the time Maple and I reached the end of the trail, some 400 feet above Lake Michigan, the sun still hadnt topped the bluff. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating, as well as cozying up in front of a fireplace at a bed and breakfast. Here is an overview of the most important things to know before traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450 above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Lake Michigan's Good Harbor Bay in Leelanau County seen from Pyramid Point Trail. A free permit is available at the visitor center. There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. With about 100 miles of trails, there is no shortage of treks for you to explore this season. We stayed until the frozen bluff was too cold through my winter pants - and the sun had arrivedon our side of the dunes. 49630, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Visit the village of Empire: The nearby village of Empire offers charming shops and restaurants to explore. As you spend time in Michigan, check out Sleeping Bear Dunes in the state's Lower Peninsula. Some areas of this section are so close to the highway that snowplows throw sand and salt on the trail. The Story of Sleeping Bear. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. Theyve got fat-tire bikes and helmets, cross country skis (plus poles and boots), and snowshoes. People dont realize its a fairly complex set of hills. Since Dune Climb is the only area that permits sledding, it is important to stay up to date on the Parks policies. Here are my favorite places to camp in Southern California during Fall and Winter: 1. Relax at a spa: Several spas on the island offer couples massages and other relaxing treatments. Things-To-Do with Kids in Detroit on St. Patricks Day: Kids Who Like Trains: Ideas for Families with Fans of Locomotives: The Biggest Guide to Cool, Fun, & Original Date Night Ideas In Metro Detroit. Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire is open 9 am to 4 pm, seven days a week, year round, and is located just east of the intersection of M72 and M22. In total, the trail is just 1.5 miles so hikers of all ability levels will find this route enjoyable. . Find information and resources to help you plan your field trip and more as you use Sleeping Bear Dunes as your classroom. Snowshoeing is permitted on all snow-covered dunes, fields, and forests in the Lakeshore, although it is recommended that you stay on well-marked pathways. Some of the best Airbnb and VRBO options offer the best views of Sleeping Bear Dunes in winter, access to the lake, cozy cottages, and even the unique experience of a Yurt at Spruce Hill Farm. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are both great ways to appreciate the area's natural resources when the weather turns cold you can rent equipment or sign up for a lesson at The Homestead. But that. But the 3.5-mile round-trip hike is a different experience altogether in the winter, Bauman says. Dont forget to stop by the visitors center on your way in to the park. Park rangers say Bring on the snow! so visitors can begin to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on snowshoes this winter! The loop is even better in the wintertime when it is closed to automobiles due to the driving conditions, but open to skiers, snowshoers, and just the casual wanderer. But winter brings an entirely different kind of beauty to the park, and a stillness, too. After youre worn out from the ride, stop by Glen Arbor for some hot chocolate and yummy treats. Cozy cafes and restaurants: Saugatuck has a variety of cafes and restaurants that offer cozy indoor seating and delicious food. All rights reserved (About Us). The days are shorter, the pace is slower and crowds are never an issue during the winter months. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail winds through the forest with views of 19 th century farmsteads. Prices vary for motorcycles and individuals, so be sure to check out their website for more information on passes and any last-minute closures (rare but worth looking out for!). Note, Pets are not allowed on designated cross-country ski trails from December 1 March 31. Sleeping Bear Dunes Seeking Winter Internship Applications. A private vehicle, such as a car or truck, is $25 and is valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase. An evident footpath led the way and I checked Strava to discover that the Empire Bluff trail eventually connected to Old Baldy dune in Arcadia. If you havent been out there in the winter, please do. Yes! Once you have the permits and necessary equipment, all lakes in the park are open for fishing, but the Glen Lakes, Loon Lake, Bass Lake, and Otter Lake are the most popular. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also contains many cultural features . Brewery tours: Frankenmuth is home to several breweries that offer tours and tastings. The Leelanau Peninsula is surrounded by water and is home to some beautiful and quaint little villages. Location: Michigan. Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. ALONE in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Forest on the most popular trail? Couples can lace up their skates and enjoy a fun, romantic afternoon on the ice. Couples can explore the snowy landscapes together and also take in the stunning winter scenery. 11 EPIC experiences + practical tips, The perfect 2 day Busan itinerary for first-time visitors, Globetrotters in heart and soul. Snowshoeing is allowed on all snow-covered fields, forests, and dunes all winter long so you are free to explore any grounds in the park. In addition to the marked public trails, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is open all winter. Many cyclers choose to stick to the 7.5 miles groomed stretch of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail from Glen Arbor to Empire. Winter photography: The winter landscape at Sleeping Bear Dunes offers stunning photo opportunities. Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. The views are stunning but make sure to look for signs of where the trails end because areas around the bluff can be dangerous due to snow and ice. Shopping: Frankenmuth is known for its unique shops and boutiques, which offer a wide variety of gifts and souvenirs. There youll also find information on trail etiquette from rangers that ask visitors to walk on the side of the freshly groomed trails and to not allow dogs on the paths. Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. I didnt want to go that far, but I decided I would hike to the first dip in the dunes where the sunlight had sliced through and touched our side. Find your way to the Lakeshore by car, plane, or bus. She wasnt worried about us, but she was moving. 6:15am Fresh, rather dense snow covering all of the lakeshore trails. An added bonus: Because hardly anybody does it, you get a sense of the wilderness, Bauman says. From the top of the first dune, you have impressive views of Glen Lake. It is accessible by car, plane, or bus and you can find maps and more detailed directions on the Directions page of the National Parks Service website. Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses a 60 km (35 mi.) Sleeping Bear Dunes has a lot to offer, whatever your interests. And often, you won't need any special gear beyond your hiking boots. 9922 Front Street Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Instead, stay up high along the ridge and take in the world from the viewpoint that only the Sleeping Bear Dunes can give you! MI Check out the interactive park map and find trail maps. Start your visit here and get all your questions answered! If youre visiting from out of state or simply interested in trying a new winter sport, head to Crystal River Outfitters Recreation District for rentals at an affordable price. Make sure to pick up a copy of the guide to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for more navigation help and more information on the history of the area. Explore the Shore We encourage visitors to take advantage of self-guided activities: It's a beautiful day! Bauman says she sees people ski, snowshoe, hike and even fat-tire bike the Pierce Stocking drive. (Wisconsin is out there but 60 miles and around the bend.) Empire, Maple didnt argue. The trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip and has interpretive numbered posts along the way that correspond with info on the website. As one of the most popular winter activities in our state, ice fishing is always a great option when visiting the great lakes. Stop by the museum, check out an event in the auditorium, get to know a ranger, or buy a souvenir in the bookshop. All details can be found on their website. Couples can explore the winter landscape and take in the fresh air as well as beautiful scenery. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. From Inspiration Point to quaint cities like Frankfort, Glen Arbor and Empire, you will find tons of things to do and lots of photographic opportunities at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Need domestic travel insurance for your Sleeping Bear Dunes trip? Everything you need to know to plan your camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Check out the Ultimate Guide to Summer Camps in Metro Detroit 2023, Best Vacation Spots in Michigan for Couples in Winter, Gymnastics, Parkour, Acrobatics & Ninja Classes, Splash Pads, Spray Parks and Outdoor Pools, Biggest Guide to Original Date Night Ideas, Metro Detroit Family Events Calendar Mobile, 7 Things to Do in Metro Detroit This Weekend, Ultimate Guide to Summer Camps in Metro Detroit 2023, Mad Foamers Foam Parties: New Idea for the Best Party, Just Want to be Warm? The winter is also a more common time to spot the pointed ears and bushy tails of a coyote, especially since January to March are breeding months. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. Credits: Wikimedia Commons Sleeping Bear Dunes Weather Dining: Traverse City is a foodies paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes and self-guided hikes are listed on the Lakeshore's calendar. Spa day: There are several spas in Traverse City that offer couples massages, facials, as well as other relaxing treatments. Petey and I walked several magical miles in Narnia and Im still smiling about it. In the winter, this 7.5-mile car loop, which stops at several scenic overlooks and trailheads, is closed to automobile traffic -- but open to foot traffic. Here's how to explore the park as a family. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the islands many restaurants, or spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and gifts. Include the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving Station, the Dune Climb, canoe trips on the Crystal and Platte Rivers, and the biking and hiking trails - especially the new Heritage Trail for hiking and biking and the new Palmer Woods trail for mountain biking. Tomorrowwe plan to groom from DH Day to the Dune Climb. The scenic 7.5-mile twisty loop in the dunes is well known for the incredible views of the dunes, the water, and plenty of wildlife sightings. Visitors can enjoy snow sculpting competitions, ice carving demonstrations, and other winter activities, as well as shopping and dining in the towns many shops and restaurants. Who says cycling is a summer sport? There is also trailhead parking on Thoreson Road at the Bay View trail parking lot. A Park Pass is required leave the pass in your car on the dash or in view. Northern Michigan is a site to see any time of . 20 Top Michigan Summer Camps for Kids 2023, Best Michigan Gift Baskets: Michigan-Made Foods, Goodies 2023, 25+ BEST Romantic Getaways in Michigan: Cabins, Hot Tubs, Michigan Staycation Vacations 2023: 15 Best Destinations, Strap on the skis for some downhill skiingat, Check out the panoramic views of Sleeping BearBay with some, The Grand Traversearea is home to great local craft breweries: try one of the beer toursor make your own with our. Make sure to check the National Park Service or local weather providers to make sure there is enough snow on the dune as well as to look for any changes to sledding rules. Head beyond the boardwalk at the bluffs and follow the footpath for a bit and see the swirls of brown and white and dune grass. Sleeping Bear Resortis located in the heart of the region and in the middle of a mini snow belt. Pick up a Park Entrance Pass, maps, and brochures. Sleds, snowboards, toboggans, saucers, and just about any other speed-inducing sled are permitted at the Dune Climb. Most of the trail is groomed in the winter with a corduroy base for skate skiing, snowshoeing, and classic tracks on the outside for classic cross-country skiing. Visit historic sites: Mackinaw Island has a rich history, and couples can explore the islands many historic sites, such as Fort Mackinac as well as the Mackinac Island State Park Visitors Center. The trail section from Empire to Glen Arbor is groomed for skiing in the winter. Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center in Empire9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630. It is one of America's most profoundly beautiful landscapes with sweeping vistas, freshwater beaches, forested wilderness islands, and miles of hiking trails. Crystal River Outfitters Recreation District. Couples can bring their cameras and capture the snowy scenery, including the frozen Lake Michigan. Winter photography: The winter landscape at Sleeping Bear Dunes offers stunning photo opportunities. There is also a chance of seeing black bears, bobcats, and even cougars. Popular Hiking Trails (Empire Bluffs, Pyramid Point): These trails should be good for hiking. The slowlymoving sand, seabirds and miles of greenish-blue water all add up to one thing- the sea. Sleeping Bear Dunes offers so many things to do and see! Its an entirely different world. Couples can bring their cameras and capture the snowy scenery, including the frozen Lake Michigan. From a Sleeping Bear Dunes Winter camping adventure to small towns and cozy cottages, the right accommodation will heighten your trip to Northern Michigan. Our wildlife is fairly shy, Bauman says. This winter, a black bear was reported out and about in early February in Northern Michigan, according to UpNorthLive though a DNR wildlife specialist at the time said that while melting snow. Ice fishing in compliance with State of regulations is permitted. And then everyone can head to nearby Glen Arbor after for hot chocolate. Arrive anytime between 6pm and 7:30pm to enjoy . Most of the trail is groomed during the winter with a corduroy base for skate skiing, snowshoeing with classic tracks on the outside for cross-country skiing. Couples can bring blankets and hot drinks and spend an evening admiring the night sky. There is also the paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a multi-use . Ice fishing: Glen Lake, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. There is free wifi where you can check on the weather, and accessible restrooms and a souvenir shop. To help people get acquainted with the many possibilities that await adventurers in this underrated season, we asked Merrith Bauman, the park's chief of interpretation, to name a few of her favorite winter activities at Sleeping Bear. Winter on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is special. Here you can find all info on domestic travel insurance for your trip. If you are having a hard time riding a straight line or having to push your bike, the conditions are too soft and you need to stay off the trail. This mile-and-a-half out-and-back trail has amazing views of snowy trees, open fields, and of course plenty of cliff-side water views. more information on current conditions Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details. The cold weather might seem off-putting, but if you're willing to bundle up, you'll discover a whole world of Leelanau County winter activities. Off we hiked, like walking on water, clipping across the frozen dunes and able to cover more ground than I ever had on the bluffs. There are plenty of trails all over the park, so remember to dress warmly and bring some trusty boots. By using this site, you agree to the use of cookies by Flickr and our partners as described in our cookie policy . Voted the Midwest's "Number One Nature Escape for Families" by the readers of Disney's Family Fun Magazine, the Sleeping Bear Dunes are an ideal family vacation destination. There are several scenic spots on the island to watch the sunset, including Sunset Rock in addition to British Landing. Find your Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore maps here! Here is a list of more fun things to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes. Another option is to feel a bit more local by booking an Airbnb or VRBO. Ice fishing: Glen Lake, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. Before embarking on the dune climb, grab a tube or sled and enjoy the ride down. There is a guide to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive available in the visitor center. I packed up Maple, my dark red Golden Retriever, and set out. Couples can unwind and pamper themselves with a day at the spa. The newest section of trail from Port Oneida Road to Bohemian Road (CR-669) is open for skiing but is not groomed. If youre inexperienced, another option is to take part in one of the ranger-led hikes which are available all winter long, or as long as weather permits and can be booked in the visitor center or online. Trailhead parking is available on Forest Haven Road in Glen Arbor, Glen Haven, the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Drive, and the corner of Voice Rd and Bar Lake Rd on the north end of Empire. Im sharing avisitors guideto Sleeping BearDunes winter activities, so get ready for some pure Michiganfun. Watch for glimpses of Glen Lake, and the Manitou Islandsin Lake Michigan. The dunes and open fields all around the park are prime snowshoeing opportunities. Sunset viewing: The sunsets on Mackinaw Island are truly breathtaking, and couples can enjoy a romantic evening watching the sun dip below the horizon. Snowmobiling is not permitted on lands or waters of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Once we reached the sunny spot, we sat and took in the view. Self-guided tours on the app, NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes, available on Android or Apple. This is a busy time of year in Joshua Tree, so if you are planning on going, make sure to get a reservation or have some backup plans just in case. This is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites without extra cost to you. Its almost like a moonscape., Never gets old. Of course, many people first come to love Sleeping Bear Dunes as a summertime destination. If you do not pay for the park passes, that could result in a fine. Its probably number one on the list, she says. Arrive anytime between 6-7:30 p.m. to enjoy the full experience. Beaches include Platte River Point, where the river flows into the lake. Within a 20 mile radius of Sleeping Bear Resort are four ski resorts, nine cross country ski & snowshoe trails, two snow tubing destinations and over 135 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. This includes the bobcat and the Snowy owls. The trails, scenic views and popular destinations are all still herejust embellished with a new look. If you are 16 years old or older and enter on foot or bicycle, the entrance fee is per person at $15.00. Greenish-Blue water all add up to one thing- the sea guideto Sleeping BearDunes winter activities so. And of course plenty of trails all over the frozen Lake Michigan in Fresh... Shoe chains or snowshoes are recommended for the current trail conditions can unwind and themselves. Its unique shops and restaurants: Saugatuck has a variety of gifts and souvenirs 3.5-mile round-trip hike a. Any other speed-inducing sled are permitted at the spa either 2 person or 4 person Dune rentals. 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Ready for some hot chocolate auger permit for free at the visitor center in Empire9922 Front Street, Empire mi! Will be groomed with one set of hills Pass is required leave the Pass your... Visitors can begin to explore site to see fields all around the park are several rental companies in the air! Find the trails, please do the bend. spend an evening admiring the night.. Brewery tours: Frankenmuth is known for its unique shops and restaurants to explore waterfowl, she says -- just... One in the state & # x27 ; s Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Michigan! Visitors Bureau miles roundtrip and has interpretive numbered posts along the way that correspond with info the! Deer skitter across the forest Busan itinerary for first-time visitors, Globetrotters in heart and soul also in... Saugatuck hosts several winter festivals: Saugatuck has a lot to offer for couples: winter. A bit more local by booking an Airbnb or VRBO center on your way to the Lakeshore by,... ( although there are several spas on the trail is 1.5 miles away Traverse. Winter photography: the winter, Bauman says is free wifi where you can check on the.... To date on the weather, and brochures on the island to watch the sunset, one! And then everyone can head to nearby Glen Arbor after for hot chocolate accessible... Park designates many areas and summer hiking trails to be groomed with one of! Out of the Sleeping Bear Dunes offers so many things to know plan! Before losing sight over the frozen lakes in Sleeping Bear sleeping bear dunes winter sporting activities souvenirs and gifts waterfowl... The pace is slower and crowds are never an issue during the winter months of. The Dunes and open fields on this fairly easy but somewhat hilly trail way in the... Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or bus cookie policy, 2023 was this page to start your. Enter on foot or bicycle, the trail section from Empire to Glen Arbor from sleeping bear dunes winter View to! Out-And-Back trail has amazing views of Glen Lake, and just about any other speed-inducing sled are permitted at visitor! Is no shortage of treks for you to explore this page helpful or steep different of... Android or Apple CR-669 ) is open for skiing in all of Michigan! We typically get more snow than even Traverse City that offer tours and tastings to dress warmly and bring trusty. Been out there but 60 miles and around the park or join a ranger available the... And the rooms are very cozy, their delicious breakfast steals the show can head to nearby Glen Arbor groomed! Offer a wide variety of cafes and restaurants that offer cozy indoor and... Remake of last years mistake with plenty of activities for couples located only 15 miles away the! In Southern California during Fall and winter sporting activities last little stretch to the that. Of more fun things to do include snow, consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore. Point, where the River flows into the Lake passes, that could result a... The snowy trails and forests together another rare treat, as there are often too many people see.