Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore

Welcome to Good Morning America's choice of "The Most Beautiful Place in America" and voted one of America's Top 10 Family Destinations by Family Fun Magazine.

Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore encompasses a 60 km (35 mi.) stretch of Lake Michigan's eastern coastline, as well as North and South Manitou Islands. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park was established primarily for its outstanding natural features, including forests, beaches, dune formations and ancient glacial phenomena. Michigan's Sleeping Bear Lakeshore also contains many cultural features including an 1871 lighthouse, three former Life-Saving Service/Coast Guard Stations and an extensive rural historic farm district. Also, Alligator trail is a three loops of 4-5K (2.5-3mi.) each plus a spur trail of 1.3K (.8 mi.) located off the first loop. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on certain beaches, but are not permitted on beaches where Piping Plovers are nesting, on South Manitou Island, North Manitou Island or on the Sleeping Bear Dune Climb. Horses are permitted on this trail. Trailhead: From M 109, 1.6K (1 mi.) north of the Sleeping Bear Dune Climb, turn onto Day Farm Road. At Stocking Road turn left. Or take Stocking Road south from M 109 just east of D.H. Day Campground. Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the National Park trails. Pets must be kept on a 6-foot maximum leash.