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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Glen Arbor | Map and Routes

Sports Facility · Wetland · Grassland

5 (551 ratings)

Located in Glen Arbor, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a breathtaking natural wonder spread across 68858.2 acres. With its diverse terrain and numerous trails, it is the ideal ...

Located in Glen Arbor, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a breathtaking natural wonder spread across 68858.2 acres. With its diverse terrain and numerous trails, it is the ideal destination for walkers and hikers seeking adventure and stunning vistas. The park offers a range of walking and hiking activities suitable for all levels of experience, from leisurely strolls along the beach to challenging hikes through wooded trails and towering sand dunes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the park while engaging in various physical activities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a variety of routes, including the popular Cross Road trail, which spans 1.5 miles and offers a rewarding hiking experience with a 4-star rating. Additionally, the Shipwreck Trail, a 0.3-mile route with a 4-star rating, provides a short yet captivating walking adventure. Whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a longer trek, the park's diverse trail network caters to all preferences. With its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained paths, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore promises an unforgettable walking and hiking experience for visitors of all ages. For walkers and hikers seeking more information about the park and its routes, the Pacer Pedometer app offers a comprehensive resource. From trail details to user reviews, the app provides valuable insights to help plan and enhance your park adventures. Whether you're exploring the Cross Road trail or embarking on the Shipwreck Trail, the Pacer Pedometer app can guide you through the park's stunning terrain and ensure a rewarding walking or hiking experience.

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Reviews (18)
Photos (125)

Walking and Hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Are you ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Glen Arbor? This national park offers an array of activities for walkers and hikers, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With essential amenities such as picnic sites, drinking water, restrooms, and parking lots conveniently ...

Are you ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Glen Arbor? This national park offers an array of activities for walkers and hikers, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With essential amenities such as picnic sites, drinking water, restrooms, and parking lots conveniently scattered throughout the park, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free experience while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature. The park's sports facilities, including bike paths, cater to those looking for more adventurous and dynamic hiking experiences. Additionally, accessibility features such as wheelchair-friendly trails ensure that everyone can partake in the joys of walking and hiking in this picturesque setting. While exploring the park, walkers and hikers can revel in captivating viewpoints, from the North Bar Lake Overlook to the Empire Bluff Overlook, offering breathtaking panoramas that are sure to leave a lasting impression. For a touch of history, visitors can also explore the Glen Haven Cannery Boathouse and the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Glen Arbor has something to offer for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Plan your next adventure here and discover the natural wonders waiting to be explored.

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Other Info about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Websitehttps://www.nps.gov/slbe

Essential Amenities in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Picnic Site
Drinking water
Wheelchair friendly
Restroom
Parking lot

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Sport Facilities

Bike path

Accessibility in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Wheelchair friendly

Things to See in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Viewpoint

Islands Lookout

Viewpoint

Big Glen Lookout

Viewpoint

Pyramid Point

Viewpoint

Sleeping Bear Point

Viewpoint

Empire Bluff Overlook

Viewpoint

Overlook Cottenwood Trail

Viewpoint

North Bar Lake Overlook

Viewpoint

Lookout Point

Museum

Glen Haven Cannery Boathouse

Museum

Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum

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Other Amenities in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Shelter

Bicycle parking

Best Walking Routes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

#1 - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Dune Climb Trail
6
Length: 2.9 milesEst. Time: 49m

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Dune Climb Trail is a 2.9 mile (6,500-step) route located near Glen Arbor Township, Michigan, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 629.8 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Good Harbor Bay Trail
3
Length: 2.5 milesEst. Time: 43m

Good Harbor Bay Trail is a 2.5 mile (6,000-step) route located near Cedar, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 6.6 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - Cross Road
1
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 26m

Cross Road is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Leland, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 59 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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Reviews of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

5/5
551 ratings
DebsterAug 9, 2024
5

Michigan has so many awesome parks and natural beauty everywhere one would travel in our wonderful state

Nancy 🇺🇸Sep 1, 2025
5

The most beautiful national park Dunes, lakes and spectacular views

ElizabethSep 1, 2025
5
See All Reviews (18)
See All Reviews (18)

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
Renee
175
mabmikem
118
Drkinew
41
4jspencer
20
5PacerPal
10
6fischhoa
9
7小小
7
8PacerPal
7
9Nathan
6
10ssmdavis8224
6
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Glen Arbor Park
Miller Hill Overlook
Manitou Passage State Underwater Preserve
Old Settlers' Park
Shalda Park
Cleveland Township Park
James R Johnson Park
James R Johnson Park
Village Park

FAQs About Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Where is the best place to walk in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

The best place to walk in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is along the Cross Road trail, which is rated 4 stars and 1 review. This trail is 1.5 miles long and takes approximately 26 minutes to complete, offering a beautiful and scenic walking experience. For more route options, you can also check the Pacer community for additional reviews and ratings.

How many routes are in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers multiple walking routes. As per the Pacer community, there are at least two known routes, including the Cross Road trail and the Shipwreck Trail, each with its own unique features and scenery. You may want to explore these routes to enjoy the diverse walking experiences they offer.

Which is the longest route in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

The longest route in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the Cross Road trail, which spans 1.5 miles. This trail offers a moderate walking experience and is rated 4 stars with 1 review. For more details on other routes and their lengths, you can refer to the Pacer community for additional route information, reviews, and ratings.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

Yes, there are several essential amenities for walkers/hikers in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including picnic sites, drinking water, restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly areas.

How accessible is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly areas available for visitors.

What kind of sports can I do in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

Visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can enjoy biking on the bike paths provided in the park.

What is the best season to walk in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

The best season for walking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is typically late spring through early fall when the weather is milder, and the trails are more accessible.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

Visitors should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, including cool springs, warm summers, and chilly autumns. It's important to dress in layers and be prepared for potential changes in weather, including lake-effect snow in the winter.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?

While walking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, you may encounter wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, various bird species, and possibly black bears. It's important to be respectful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Glen Arbor Park
Miller Hill Overlook
Manitou Passage State Underwater Preserve
Old Settlers' Park
Shalda Park
Cleveland Township Park
James R Johnson Park
James R Johnson Park
Village Park

Latest Check-ins at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

mabmikemNov 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025Walking
mabmikemNov 12, 2025
Nov 12, 2025Walking
mabmikemNov 4, 2025
Nov 4, 2025Walking
mabmikemNov 3, 2025
Nov 3, 2025Walking
ReneeOct 24, 2025
Oct 24, 2025Hiking
ReneeNov 2, 2025
Nov 2, 2025Walking
mabmikemOct 31, 2025
Oct 31, 2025Walking
mabmikemOct 30, 2025
Oct 30, 2025Walking
fischhoaOct 26, 2025
Oct 26, 2025Walking
fischhoaOct 25, 2025
Oct 25, 2025Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

RankingCheck-ins
Renee
175
mabmikem
118
Drkinew
41
4jspencer
20
5PacerPal
10
6fischhoa
9
7小小
7
8PacerPal
7
9Nathan
6
10ssmdavis8224
6
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
#1- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Dune Climb Trail
6
Length: 2.9 milesEst. Time: 49m

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Dune Climb Trail is a 2.9 mile (6,500-step) route located near Glen Arbor Township, Michigan, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 629.8 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Good Harbor Bay Trail
3
Length: 2.5 milesEst. Time: 43m

Good Harbor Bay Trail is a 2.5 mile (6,000-step) route located near Cedar, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 6.6 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- Cross Road
1
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 26m

Cross Road is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Leland, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 59 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- Shipwreck Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Shipwreck Trail is a 0.3 mile (1,000-step) route located near Leland, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- Intermediate Trail
1
Length: 2.2 milesEst. Time: 38m

Intermediate Trail is a 2.2 mile (5,000-step) route located near Glen Arbor, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 154.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- Bass Lake Drive
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

Bass Lake Drive is a 0.2 mile (455-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- Cottonwood Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m

Cottonwood Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Empire, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 45.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- Ridge Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m

Ridge Trail is a 0.8 mile (1,500-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 13.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- Dune Climb Trail
1
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 31m

Dune Climb Trail is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Glen Arbor, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 91.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#10- Big Glen Lookout Trail
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m

Big Glen Lookout Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Glen Arbor, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#11- Advanced Trail
1
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 39m

Advanced Trail is a 2.3 mile (5,500-step) route located near Empire, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 249.3 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#12- Farms Trail
1
Length: 2 milesEst. Time: 33m

Farms Trail is a 2 mile (4,500-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 255.8 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#13- Bay View Trail
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 4m

Bay View Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Glen Arbor, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#14- Valley View Shortcut trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Valley View Shortcut trail is a 0.3 mile (1,000-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#15- Pebble Beach
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m

Pebble Beach is a 0.2 mile (458-step) route located near Empire, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#16- Bay View Trail (Mid Trail)
1
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 2m

Bay View Trail (Mid Trail) is a 0.2 mile (374-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#17- Sleeping Bear Point Trail
1
Length: 2 milesEst. Time: 35m

Sleeping Bear Point Trail is a 2 mile (4,500-step) route located near Glen Arbor, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 134.5 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#18- Valley View Campground trail
1
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 26m

Valley View Campground trail is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Maple City, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 216.5 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#19- Windy Moraine Trail
1
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 23m

Windy Moraine Trail is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Empire, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 52.5 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#20- Easy Trail
1
Length: 1.2 milesEst. Time: 20m

Easy Trail is a 1.2 mile (2,500-step) route located near Empire, Michigan. This route has an elevation gain of about 190.2 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

DebsterAug 9, 2024
5

Michigan has so many awesome parks and natural beauty everywhere one would travel in our wonderful state

Nancy 🇺🇸Sep 1, 2025
5

The most beautiful national park Dunes, lakes and spectacular views

ElizabethSep 1, 2025
5
kristyn85Jul 18, 2025
5
fischhoaMay 19, 2025
5
mabmikemJan 31, 2025
5
StevenOct 21, 2024
5
PacerPalOct 6, 2024
5
PacerGuy_1953Oct 2, 2024
5
birchsapSep 12, 2024
5
PacerPalSep 1, 2024
5
raedunwoodie21Aug 20, 2024
5
PacerPalAug 16, 2023
5
ReneeAug 30, 2022
5
koochesfMay 7, 2022
5
TC FoxSep 19, 2021
5
GunnarJul 30, 2020
5
CharlesJul 27, 2025
4
5/5
551 ratings

Photos of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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