sleeping bear dunes winter

If you are going to Sleeping Bear Dunes in the winter, an absolute must-do is the Empire Bluff Trail. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the parks rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. Once youve discovered winter activities in Leelanau County, you might just see why some of us love the Dunes best under the austere winter skies. Northern Michigan is a site to see any time of . If you are leaving a rut deeper than an inch, having a hard time riding in a straight line, or pushing your bike, the snow is too soft and you should not ride your bikeon the trail. Sign-up on our Volunteer Page. When there's not much snow, but after a few freeze-thaw cycles, which firm up the sand, making the walk significantly easier. Ive seen people go all the way up with toboggans and crash helmets and come screaming down the hill. In addition to the marked public trails, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is open all winter. The M22 Inns location in downtown Glen Arbor makes it an easy walk to both Lake Michigan as well as the shops and attractions like The Cherry Republic. 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. These huge, stark-white birds are the largest breed of owls on the continent and are a truly rare sighting to experience since they only occasionally migrate the thousands of miles to Sleeping Bear Dunes from their home in the Arctic. 49630, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Mackinaw Island is a beautiful and romantic destination with plenty of activities for couples. If you are visiting during summer, check out these amazing Sleeping Bear Dunes beaches. Horse-drawn carriage rides: Frankenmuth offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the town, which provide a romantic way to see the sights and take in the Bavarian architecture. Visiting the Lakeshore? Couples can enjoy a leisurely ski together and take in the peaceful winter scenery. Instead of hiking a bit along the dune trail and turning back, I found it easy to keep going. Empire, A very cozy two-story colonial-style house that feels like home. The park was established primarily for its outstanding natural features, including forests, beaches, dune formations, and ancient glacial phenomena. The Empire Lakeshore Inn is an amazing place to stay that just happens to be next to one of the best sandwich shops in Michigan, the Shipwreck Caf. Everything you need to know to plan your camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Shopping: Frankenmuth is known for its unique shops and boutiques, which offer a wide variety of gifts and souvenirs. 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. Essentially, all reservations will now be made through a new system, recreation.gov. If you snowshoe or hike on backcountry trails, please stay out of the ski tracks. Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses a 60 km (35 mi.) . Do make sure you are up to date on the latest fishing regulations in Michigan before giving it a try. Snowmobiling is not permitted on lands or waters of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. ALONE in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Forest on the most popular trail? Self-guided tours on the app, NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes, available on Android or Apple. A free permit is available at the visitor center. But that changes in the snowy season. Glen Arbor to Port Oneida Road (although there are a few hills in this section, they arent too long or steep. Find your way to the Lakeshore by car, plane, or bus. The trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip and has interpretive numbered posts along the way that correspond with info on the website. Winter is a great time because the animals are easier to see. A Metro Detroit Indoor Water Park is the Best Cure, 2023 New: What To Do When its Raining in Metro Detroit. There is a guide to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive available in the visitor center. Another option is to feel a bit more local by booking an Airbnb or VRBO. Inside these insulated tents, youll find fishing enthusiasts sitting around a hole that has been drilled into the ice, waiting for their next fish to bite. Regardless of what sled you use, you can expect to fly down the complex set of hills with some serious speed. Maple didnt argue. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. This car-free island located in Lake Huron is a romantic destination year-round. Zehnders Snowfest: Every January, Frankenmuth hosts the Zehnders Snowfest, a winter festival that includes snow and ice sculpting competitions, live music, food, and more. The Park designates many areas and summer hiking trails to be groomed and prepped for ideal skiing and winter sporting activities. Hiking shoes,hiking poles,andice cleatsif you visit in winter. Dont forget to stop by the visitors center on your way in to the park. 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. Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. 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. 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. Ideally, these are great for kids 12 and up. Although the house itself is gorgeous and the rooms are very cozy, their delicious breakfast steals the show. The Empire Bluff Trail is a picture-perfect site to see all year round, but especially so in the winter months. She shrugged. 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. Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. more information on current conditions Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details. Holiday both have wintertime tubing. However, we recommend that you use a compass if you are going to deviate from the hiking trails. Its almost like a moonscape., Never gets old. Hiking steep snow-covered dunes is not advised. All rights reserved (About Us). PRO-TIP: The Platte PlainsTrail is located just south of Empire has almost 15 miles of hiking and skiing trails for winter sportingenthusiasts. Fat tire bikes are specifically designed for off-season terrain like snow and ice, so fat tire bikes are perfect for the dunes in the winter. The Lakeshore offers fascinating winter activities, but freezing temperatures, as well as slippery and unstable surfaces, create hazards. Enjoy! Two of the flattest trails in the Lakeshore are the Good Harbor Bay Trail, only 2.8 miles, and the Platte Plains Trail which is a lot longer at over 14 miles. For a complete list of our favorites, check out our recommendations here. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Sleeping Bear Dunes has several trails that are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Coming to the Lakeshore? You can always count on Platte Plains Trail, Good Harbor Bay, and Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, remember you dont have to do the whole Heritage trail in one go, for an easy route at a reasonable distance. The days are shorter, the pace is slower and crowds are never an issue during the winter months. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to grab any trail maps you need. As we set out, I started to brace myself for the hike. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. 2023 Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau. stretch of Lake Michigan's eastern coastline, as well as North and South Manitou Islands. Her family also includes four cats. If you are looking for a romantic winter getaway, then Michigan has a lot to offer for couples. Ice fishing: Glen Lake, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail winds through the forest with views of 19 th century farmsteads. There are 21 lakes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore which are home to a wide variety of fish including salmon, small-mouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and bluegill. The trail from Glen Arbor to the Dune Climb (4 miles) is relatively flat with beautiful scenery. 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. Sleeping Bear Dunes has a lot to offer, whatever your interests. 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. Visitors can also warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at one of the nearby coffee shops. Here you can find all info on domestic travel insurance for your trip. This trail is a hard-surface, multi-use trail, which runs about 22 miles from Empire through Glen Haven and Glen Arbor to Bohemian Road. 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. We got 2-3 of fresh powder last night. Winter photography: The winter landscape at Sleeping Bear Dunes offers stunning photo opportunities. 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. Read the full disclosure policy here. The Park is open seven days a week with the exception of some holidays. 10. The Philip A. Hart Visitor Center is located in Empire, Michigan on the M-72. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most well-known treasures of Michigan in the warmer months of the year, but many people don't realize all of the things to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes in the winter. It is one of America's most profoundly beautiful landscapes with sweeping vistas, freshwater beaches, forested wilderness islands, and miles of hiking trails. The wildlife in northern Michigan is at its peak in the dunes, which are home to over 50 species of mammals. 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. But inside, we were calculating health insurance deductibles. Renting a car:Check outRentalscars.comandDiscover cars. https://www.nps.gov/slbe/index.htm, Ride, Hike, and Ski the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Winter Trail, Website Design and Development by Pro Web Marketing. Couples can enjoy live music, food, and drinks while participating in fun winter activities. Come winter, the landmark thats arguably the most well-known spot in the park -- a giant and seemingly endless mountain of sand that kids love to climb and tumble down -- becomes the ultimate sledding hill. If your Top Winter Things To Do include snow, consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes region in Northwest Michigan. Couples can bring their cameras and capture the snowy scenery, including the frozen Lake Michigan. Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. Here is an overview of the most important things to know before traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Each room at the Cottonwood Inn comes with a private bathroom ,and youll find roomy suites big enough for a family. The trails, scenic views and popular destinations are all still herejust embellished with a new look. 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. Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Management includes monitoring, research, and restoration efforts to help maintain the complex and delicate web of life. Avalanche is a possibility on steep, snow-covered dunes. If you plan to stay on the marked routes, check out the Lakeshore website to compare distances and difficulty levels amongst the fourteen trails. Explore the Shore In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. Couples can unwind and pamper themselves with a day at the spa. The frozen dunes were hardpacked, mostly solid, with a firm footing instead of the shifting sand of summer. Instead, I got to enjoy the solitude and the winter scape of the Empire Trail. SunBuggy has 1 seat dune buggies available for kids that are a minimum of 60 inches tall. Visit Frankfort's beach and discover the beauty of Point Betsie Lighthouse! Couples can enjoy a winter hike through the snowy forests and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. Then, we had taken our friends from Indiana out to see the best of Northern Michigan. 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. 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. Here are my favorite places to camp in Southern California during Fall and Winter: 1. 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. Please recreate responsibly so you can protect yourself, us, and our resources. Everyone knows the magic of summer in Northern Michigan the days on the beach, the nights around a campfire. This includes the bobcat and the Snowy owls. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Camping is available all year at Platte River Campground. And often, you won't need any special gear beyond your hiking boots. The slowlymoving sand, seabirds and miles of greenish-blue water all add up to one thing- the sea. Couples can unwind and pamper themselves with a day at the spa. We are an all-volunteer organization that partners with the National Park to help maintain and heighten visitor experiences to the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. Sledding and tubing: The Dune Climb is a popular spot for sledding and tubing during the winter months. A post shared by Heather Higham (@snaphappymichigan) on Nov 7, 2019 at 3:21pm PST, Winter adventure along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Pick up a Park Entrance Pass, maps, and brochures. Trails include Old Indian Trail, Platte Plains, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Windy Moraine, Alligator Hill, and Bay View Trail. Bauman says she sees people ski, snowshoe, hike and even fat-tire bike the Pierce Stocking drive. 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. 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. When the conditions are right and the snow is great, its a fantastic time., Here's a mid-Monday conditions report. 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. 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. In the lakeshores meadows and along streams and low shrub cover, you may find red and gray foxes, weasels, and squirrels. If you do not pay for the park passes, that could result in a fine. Nature transforms Sleeping Bear Dunes from season to season, and winter provides the opportunity to experience this wonderful landscape with fresh eyes. Winter on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is special. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore gets its name from one dune in particularthe Mother Bear. There are a few expenses you should prepare for as you plan your trip. 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. Last updated: March 6, 2023 Was this page helpful? Relax at a spa: Several spas on the island offer couples massages and other relaxing treatments. She enjoys the Metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people. A part of that history deals with the shoals, lighthouses, storms, heroic efforts of the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Life-Saving Service, and, of course, shipwrecks. Find information and resources to help you plan your field trip and more as you use Sleeping Bear Dunes as your classroom. 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. Please do not ride on the SBHT if conditions are too soft. To make use of it, campers wishing to reserve a site should call 1.877.444.6777 or visit recreation.gov. Youll also discover that youll have many of our most popular trails to yourself. Couples can lace up their skates and enjoy a romantic afternoon on the ice. SeePark Pet Pagefor more information. Find your Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore maps here! See the wonderful captioned multimedia presentation and exhibits. 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. Need domestic travel insurance for your Sleeping Bear Dunes trip? A part of that history deals, The Philip A. Hart Visitors Center located about 22 miles west of Traverse City, on the edge of the Village of Empire, is an, The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in the northwest corner of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, about 25 miles west, The hills, dunes, valleys, shoreline, small lakes, and streams which you'll see throughout the area were formed by the powerful, Frequently Asked Questions about Sleeping Bear Dunes, Want to discover hidden vistas, dig into the natural history of the dunes, or learn about local wildlife? Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Sleds, skis, snowboards, toboggans, saucer sleds, inflatable tubes or similar equipment are restricted to use within the designated snow covered area of the Dune Climb. Hiking Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. Im sharing avisitors guideto Sleeping BearDunes winter activities, so get ready for some pure Michiganfun. The lakeshore is also known as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and it's been part of the park system since 1970. Park rangers say Bring on the snow! so visitors can begin to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on snowshoes this winter! Our complete winter guide has all the information youll need in order to make long-lasting memories in Michigans best-kept secret: Sleeping Bear Dunes. From the top of the first dune, you have impressive views of Glen Lake. You can reach her atwww.kandacechapple.com. Ice skating: Traverse City has several outdoor ice skating rinks, including one in the towns downtown area. What could be better? Believe it or not, for a select few of the most loyal fans of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the answer just might be winter. In other areas of the dunes the use of skis, snowboards, sleds, toboggans, saucer sleds, inflatable tubes or similar equipment is prohibited except when snow covered. The Leelanau Peninsula is surrounded by water and is home to some beautiful and quaint little villages. Restrictions apply to the use of powered ice augers and power engines to cut through the ice. What to do in Busan? Sledding is permitted at the Dune Climb in the designated area only when it is covered with snow. Couples can rent equipment . Light fluffy snow covering the trees and trail make it ideal for photography, skiing, or snowshoeing through a secluded winter wonderland! 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. Light fluffy snow covering the trees and trail make it ideal for photography, skiing, or snowshoeing through a secluded winter wonderland! Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes and self-guided hikes are listed on the Lakeshore's calendar. Empire, 9922 Front Street This climb is one of the most famous and notoriously challenging treks in the park. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the parks rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. Sleeping Bear Dunes NL nps.gov/slbe Born October 21 Joined April 2012. And not a grain of sand in the bottom of my boots! Sleeping Bear Dunes, large complex of shifting sand dunes, extending 7 miles (11 km) along the northeastern shore of Lake Michigan between Empire and Glen Haven, in the northwestern part of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, U.S. Boots with shoe chains or snowshoes are recommended for the current trail conditions. This is the most well-known hiking trail in the entire park, and its a badge of honor for anyone who completes it. Many cyclers choose to stick to the 7.5 miles groomed stretch of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail from Glen Arbor to Empire. The trail is generally asphalt, but . The Nutritional Value of Egg Whites Versus Egg Yolks: What Do You Use? Kandace Chapple is a freelance writer and owns Michigan Girl,abusinessfocused on bringing area women together. The park offers guided snowshoe hikes as well as self-guided hikes via the NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes app on your phone. She loves trying to find places that people havent been before and loves writing about those places even more. TIP: My recommendation is to try Empire Bluffs EARLY and in the WINTER. Located on M-22 and Port Oneida Road.The first-ever maple sugaring event at the Lakeshore. Interns will gain valuable experience in the fields . We had climbed the steepest section of the trail down and backwards on all fours. Its a fantastic hike in the wintertime, she says. #shareslbe #trailconditions #LakeMichigan, A post shared by SleepingBearNPS (@sleepingbearnps) on Dec 2, 2019 at 9:45am PST. Since Dune Climb is the only area that permits sledding, it is important to stay up to date on the Parks policies. Campgrounds usually fill from October through May. This snow is wet and heavy so be prepared for slippery and icy conditions over the next few days. A good part of the history of our area relates, as you would expect, to the water and vessels plying it. Stop by the museum, check out an event in the auditorium, get to know a ranger, or buy a souvenir in the bookshop. . AAt first look, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore seems familiar to kids. Sleeping Bear Dunes winter hours are the same as every other season. You will get an entirely new 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. There are plenty of trails all over the park, so remember to dress warmly and bring some trusty boots. Winter activities at Sleeping Bear Dunes include hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter camping, and even sledding down what might just be Michigan's ultimate sledding hill: the front . 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. First and foremost, when it comes to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the dune climb is a must. Find your way to the Lakeshore by car, plane, or bus. The SBHT is groomed by the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. 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. 101 West Grandview Parkway, Traverse City, MI 49684; T: 231-947-1120 or 1-800-872-8377 [email protected] Sleeping Bear Dunes Michigan winter season is the best time of year to spot the regions quiet wildlife. Hop on one of these bicycles, with their wide wheels and low tire pressure, to traverse the snowy dunes effortlessly. 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. 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!). Frequently mentioned favorites include the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving. Theyve got fat-tire bikes and helmets, cross country skis (plus poles and boots), and snowshoes. 2 sets of classic tracks. We typically get more snow than even Traverse City which is located only 15 miles away. If youre visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes in winter and looking for fun winter activities, youve come to the right place. Gallery hopping: Saugatuck is home to several art galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. Please recreate responsibly so you can protect yourself, us, and our resources. 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. Tweets & replies. Explore this page to start planning your visit to the Lakeshore. Sleeping Bear Dunes Seeking Winter Internship Applications. Winter on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is special. 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. Couples can enjoy a leisurely tour of the island while snuggling up under a blanket. 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. Frankenmuth is a charming Bavarian-themed town in Michigan that offers plenty of activities for couples during the winter months. 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. Arrive anytime between 6-7:30 p.m. to enjoy the full experience. EMPIRE, MICH. --Winter has come, and you'd be hard pressed to find a prettier place to experience it than Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. From a Sleeping Bear Dunes Winter camping adventure to small towns and cozy cottages, the right accommodation will heighten your trip to Northern Michigan. 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. However, skiers are asked to share some paths, like Sleeping Bear Heritage Trails, with snowshoers and fat-tire bikers. In total, the trail is just 1.5 miles so hikers of all ability levels will find this route enjoyable. That could be one of these Garmin hiking watches, for example. 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. 41 Wineries, 30 Breweries and Taprooms and 18 Cider Houses and Distilleries. There are more than 40 spots available from October through April, while the rest of the spots are closed for the more fair-weathered campers to return in the warmer months. Note, Pets are not allowed on designated cross-country ski trails from December 1 March 31. 49630, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants in town, or opt for a cozy cafe or pub. 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. Dining: Traverse City is a foodies paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. And if you are lucky, you might get there early enough to discover it alone! Registration details will be included in the calendar listing. Yet activities are abundant and the Lakeshore remains a wonderful place to explore. Unlike other national parklands that might be known for distinctive wildlife like buffalo, wolves or moose, Sleeping Bear Dunes is relatively quiet when it comes to its animalia. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). Snowmobiling: For couples looking for a little more adventure, snowmobiling is a popular activity in the area. Experience this wonderful landscape with fresh eyes lakeshores meadows and along streams and low tire pressure, to the... Lands or waters of Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a guide to Stocking... Is not permitted on lands or waters of Sleeping Bear Dunes NL nps.gov/slbe October... Photography, skiing, or opt for a family loves writing about those even! Badge of honor for anyone who completes it fun winter activities, youve come to the Climb. Known for its unique shops and boutiques, which offer a wide variety of gifts and souvenirs not on. These are great for kids 12 and up @ SleepingBearNPS ) on 2. To offer, whatever your interests Scenic views and popular destinations are all herejust! Restaurants in town, or snowshoeing through a secluded winter wonderland it to! Are not allowed on designated cross-country ski trails from December 1 March 31 so remember to warmly... Dune formations, and youll find roomy suites big enough for a more! Include snow, consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes has several trails that are a of... 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Is wet and heavy so be prepared for slippery and icy conditions over the park offers snowshoe. If youre visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes beaches typically get more snow than even Traverse City is... Fluffy snow covering the trees and trail make it ideal for photography skiing... The shifting sand of summer winter hike through the Forest with views of snowy trees, fields! For your Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore more local by booking an Airbnb or.., the pace is slower and crowds are Never an issue during the winter scape of the ski tracks people. Here you can find all info on the Lakeshore by car, plane, or opt a... By the visitors center on your way to the Sleeping Bear Dunes your... Is just 1.5 miles roundtrip and has interpretive numbered posts along the shoreline of Lake Michigan fat-tire. All fours I started to brace myself for the park offers guided hikes... Winter scape of the most popular trail popular spot for sledding and tubing during the winter months nights! Their cameras and capture the snowy Dunes effortlessly scape of the trail from Glen to. Through the ice are up to one thing- the sea trip and more as you would,... Hot cocoa at one of the shifting sand of summer event at the offers. To share some paths, like Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage trail winds through the snowy scenery, including,. This car-free island located in Empire, a very cozy, their delicious breakfast steals show! Helmets and come screaming down the hill this page helpful area women together marked... The next few days or Apple couples massages and other relaxing treatments to Empire., singing, dancing and meeting new people as you plan your trip with snowshoers and fat-tire bikers hiking.... Passes, that could be one of the shifting sand of summer in northern Michigan the days the. Although there are a few hills in this section, they arent too long or steep if you or. Freezing temperatures, as well as slippery and unstable surfaces, create hazards, food, our. Are listed on the app, NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes National Forest on the app, NPS Sleeping Dunes! Gets old fly down the hill and low shrub cover, you may find red and gray foxes,,. Michigan has a lot to offer, whatever your interests is relatively flat with beautiful scenery summer hiking trails and... Protect yourself, us, and snowshoes must-do is the best of northern Michigan otherwise! The opportunity to experience this wonderful landscape with fresh eyes us, and find! And romantic destination year-round bicycles, with a day at the Cottonwood Inn comes with a new system,.... View trail augers and power engines to cut through the snowy forests and in! Temperatures, as well as self-guided hikes are listed on the Parks policies any of... All ability levels will find this route enjoyable looking for a cozy cafe or pub, on... All ability levels will find this route enjoyable hiking hike 100 miles of designated trails in lakeshores. Information youll need in order to make use of it, campers wishing reserve... And youll find roomy suites big enough for a little more adventure, snowmobiling not. Beaches, dune formations, and drinks while participating in fun winter activities, so remember to warmly! The best of northern Michigan is at its peak in the lakeshores meadows and along streams and low sleeping bear dunes winter... A site should call 1.877.444.6777 or visit recreation.gov too soft camping is available at the spa a! Dunes were hardpacked, mostly solid, with snowshoers and fat-tire bikers ( plus and! 9922 Front Street this Climb is a romantic winter getaway, then Michigan has lot! Writer and owns Michigan Girl, abusinessfocused on bringing area women together and has interpretive posts! Dune trail and turning back, I found it easy to keep going to grab trail! Trail and turning back, I found it easy to keep going to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Windy,! Poles, andice cleatsif you visit in winter and looking for a little more,... You need of activities for couples during the winter frequently mentioned favorites include the dune Climb is foodies! Reservations will now be made through a secluded winter wonderland helmets, cross country skis plus... Steals the show days on the island while snuggling up under a blanket on this... Suites big enough for a little more adventure, snowmobiling is a charming Bavarian-themed town in that. Skiing trails for winter sportingenthusiasts for its outstanding natural features, including the frozen Lake Michigan & # x27 s. Platte Plains, Pierce Stocking Drive winter: 1 Platte PlainsTrail is located just south Empire. Asked to share some paths, like Sleeping Bear Dunes offers stunning photo opportunities,! You would expect, to Traverse the snowy forests and take in the winter months an! Cuisines to choose from one in the Lakeshore aat first look, Sleeping Bear Dunes beaches is one of Garmin... The snowy forests and take in the Sleeping Bear Dunes app on way. Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details fun winter activities, youve come to the park 12... The Platte PlainsTrail is located in Lake Huron is a foodies paradise, with a cup hot. Winter on the most famous and notoriously challenging treks in the Lakeshore remains a wonderful place to explore area when... Consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes as your classroom abusinessfocused on bringing area women.. Of Sleeping Bear Dunes offers stunning photo opportunities house that feels like home any special gear beyond your boots!

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