Sleeping Bear Dunes

Q: How much does it cost to get into Sleeping Bear Dunes?

Park Entrance Pass - $25.00 Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase) Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $20.00 Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase) Per Person Entrance Pass - $15.00 Visitors 16 years of age or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour. Learn more about the Sleeping Bear Dunes

Are there mountains in northern Michigan? You bet! We lightheartedly refer to them as “mountains of sand” otherwise known as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This is one of the top things to do in the Traverse City area.

The lakeshore is also known as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and it's been part of the park system since 1970. It is one of America’s most profoundly beautiful landscapes with sweeping vistas, freshwater beaches, forested wilderness islands, and miles of hiking trails. There is also the paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a multi-use pathway that runs from the northern end of the park to a point just south of Empire.

If you need suggestions on planning your visit, browse our itinerary, check out the Benzie county section of the park and take a look at tour options with Up North Tours. For the trail veterans out there, check out our list of lesser known and secret spots in the area!

Things To Do

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at the Sleeping Bear Dunes?

Yes! The Lake Michigan beaches within the National Lakeshore are some of the finest freshwater beaches in the country. Some recommendations for beaches include:

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Where should I stay when visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes?

Located in Leelanau and Benzie counties, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a short drive from Traverse City and surrounding port towns. Discover nearby lodging options in Traverse City and Benzie County.

View more hotels in the region.

How much does it cost to get into Sleeping Bear Dunes?

Park Entrance Pass - $25.00
Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase)

Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $20.00
Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from date of purchase)

Per Person Entrance Pass - $15.00
Visitors 16 years of age or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.

Learn more about the Sleeping Bear Dunes

What are the best things to do at Sleeping Bear Dunes?

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the most popular single attraction in the Traverse City area, and it’s only a short drive from downtown Traverse City and the surrounding counties. A year-round attraction, the park provides outdoor recreation opportunities for everyone. Here are some recommended activities:

Discover more things to do at the Sleeping Bear Dunes

How far is Sleeping Bear Dunes from Traverse City?

Philip A. Hart visitor center at Sleeping Bear Dunes is 30 minutes (driving) west of the Traverse City visitor center.

Can you visit Sleeping Bear Dunes as a day trip from Traverse City?

Absolutely, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is about 30 miles or roughly a 40 minute drive from downtown Traverse City depending on where you're headed in the park. That makes it an easy day trip, and most visitors find a full day is the perfect amount of time to do the park justice. Check out our Sleeping Bear Dunes itinerary for help planning your outdoor adventure!

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Things To Do

Plan Your Trip

Frequently Asked Questions

Sleeping Bear Dunes