Empire Bluff Trail
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Looking for big views with a manageable effort? The Empire Bluff Trail is a must-do. Located within the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this 1.5-mile loop trail offers breathtaking panoramas of Lake Michigan and the surrounding bluffs.
Difficulty: Moderate. The trail features some gradual inclines, but the path is well-maintained.
Scenic Spots: Without a doubt, the highlight of this hike is the observation deck at the bluff's edge, which offers unparalleled vistas. Also, keep an eye out for wildflowers beginning to bloom along the path!
Parking Tips: Parking is available at the trailhead off Wilco Road. As it’s part of the National Lakeshore, you’ll need a park entrance pass, which costs $25 per vehicle. This fee covers you and everyone in your (non-commercial) vehicle. Annual passes are also available for just $45!
Insider Info: This trail can get busy, especially on warm spring weekends, so consider an early morning or late afternoon hike for a more tranquil experience. The softer spring ground can sometimes be a bit muddy, so waterproof shoes are always a good choice!
Pyramid Point Trail
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Another stunner within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pyramid Point Trail offers a slightly more challenging but equally rewarding experience. This 2.7-mile loop takes you through a beautiful mix of forest and field and offers incredible views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult. There’s a significant climb to the bluff, but the views are worth their weight in sweat.
Scenic Spots: The iconic bluff lookout provides stunning photo opportunities. You’ll also enjoy diverse forest ecosystems that are just starting to bud, as well as wildflowers galore.
Parking Tips: Park at the Pyramid Point parking area on Basch Road. A park entrance pass is required.
Insider Info: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make the steep descent down to the beach, but remember, what goes down must come up. Thankfully, spring is typically less crowded here than summer, so you can exert yourself in peace.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Hiking Trails
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The entire Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a hiker’s heaven, boasting a bevy of trails beyond Empire Bluff and Pyramid Point. From challenging dune climbs to tranquil forest paths, there’s something for every skill level. Can’t-miss favorites include the Sleeping Bear Point Trail, the Alligator Hill Trail, and the Cottonwood Trail!
Difficulty: Varies widely, from easy strolls to strenuous climbs.
Scenic Spots: Literally everywhere. You'll find majestic dunes, pristine beaches, chirping birds, winsome wildflowers, budding forests, and crystal-clear lakes.
Parking Tips: Multiple parking areas are available throughout the National Lakeshore. A park entrance pass is always required.
Extra Credit: While not a hike in the traditional sense, conquering the Dune Climb is an iconic experience that will leave your quads burning and your eyes full of sweeping views.
Boardman Lake Loop Trail
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Scenic Boardman Lake, nestled within Traverse City itself, offers four miles of wooded trail that loops around the water’s edge. The northern portion provides an urban setting, with access to commercial areas, while the heavily wooded eastern section offers a combination of pavement, boardwalk, and gravel. The southern segment boasts two bridges and a lengthy boardwalk, and the western stretch features lookout piers, kayak launches, and fishing decks. Spring brings a wealth of wildflowers and songbirds to this unique urban trail!
Difficulty: Easy. This trail requires almost zero elevation gain.
Scenic Spots: Hull Park, located along the trail, offers gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding forest from its dock and boardwalks. On the lake’s west side, the BLLT Scenic Overlook and Mural Viewpoint offers memorable vistas, both natural and manmade.
Parking Tips: Parking is available at Hull Park, along nearby Hannah Avenue, at the Oryana 10th St Trailhead, and at Medalie Park in Logan’s Landing off South Airport Rd.
