Couples can rent a sled or tube and have fun racing down the dunes. Tweets & replies. Hop on one of these bicycles, with their wide wheels and low tire pressure, to traverse the snowy dunes effortlessly. The park allows the use of a power auger with a permit on Lake Michigan, Loon Lake, School Lake, Bass Lake, and Tucker Lake. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore gets its name from one dune in particularthe Mother Bear. 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. But that. But it wasnt much past 8 a.m. and 19 degrees, and we had the place to ourselves in February. To make use of it, campers wishing to reserve a site should call 1.877.444.6777 or visit recreation.gov. Perched along the edge of the large dune that towers about Lake Michigan, this dune, at one time, resembled a sleeping bear. The park offers guided snowshoe hikes as well as self-guided hikes via the NPS Sleeping Bear Dunes app on your phone. ), Kettles Trail (except one short section of the north loop is Black Very Difficult. As you spend time in Michigan, check out Sleeping Bear Dunes in the state's Lower Peninsula. Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. When I get to ski in Sleeping Bear Dunes its even better. 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. 9922 Front Street There is free wifi where you can check on the weather, and accessible restrooms and a souvenir shop. Plan a trip to the State Theater in Traverse City, take in a show at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, or peruse our galleries and museums. MI Crystal River Outfitters Recreation District. When there's not much snow, but after a few freeze-thaw cycles, which firm up the sand, making the walk significantly easier. Petey and I walked several magical miles in Narnia and Im still smiling about it. Northern Michigan is a site to see any time of year, but the dunes are a must-do activity for the whole family in the wintertime. best restaurants in Sleeping Bear Dunes, click here. Everything you need to know to plan your camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes. With an abundance of winter sports, stunning natural landscapes, and fun activities for the whole family, Sleeping Bear Dunes should top your bucket list as one of the most beautiful and memorable places in the Midwest, especially during wintertime. Im sharing avisitors guideto Sleeping BearDunes winter activities, so get ready for some pure Michiganfun. If you plan to stay on the marked routes, check out the Lakeshore website to compare distances and difficulty levels amongst the fourteen trails. Campgrounds usually fill from October through May. Click the button below to sign up for email newsletter, annual Newsletter Mailing, and/or email Ski Reports, 2023 Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes,All Rights Reserved 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. Bikes yield to skiers, please give skate skiers a wide berth. Pets are not allowed on ski trails during winter ski season. Here's how to explore the park as a family. For more info on the trail visit here. Led by rangers and offered for free, the hikes are open to all . 248,866 were here. Not only will you experience perfect terrain for a day of skiing, but this activity is a great way to get some outdoor exercise too! Would you like to volunteer to help out on the trails? Ice fishing: Glen Lake, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. Zehnders Snowfest: Every January, Frankenmuth hosts the Zehnders Snowfest, a winter festival that includes snow and ice sculpting competitions, live music, food, and more. Yesterday, areas across the Lakeshore received 3-6 inches of snow. The Philip A. Hart Visitor Center is where you can find brochures, maps, and park rangers to tell you about the history of the park and other helpful information. Here's how to explore the park as a family. Trails include Old Indian Trail, Platte Plains, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Windy Moraine, Alligator Hill, and Bay View Trail. Before you go, make sure your tires are at least 3.7 wide, your tire pressure is under 8 psi, and the weather conditions are suitable for biking on the trails. Couples can lace up their skates and enjoy a romantic afternoon on the ice. During the winter of 2014, we received over 200 inches of the white stuff! You can reach her atwww.kandacechapple.com. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke and trivia with L Sharp Productions. And if you are lucky, you might get there early enough to discover it alone! 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. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Sleeping Bear DunesNational Lakeshore is one of the most well-known treasures of Michigan in the warmer months of the year, but many people dont realize all of the things to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes in the winter. Instead, stay up high along the ridge and take in the world from the viewpoint that only the Sleeping Bear Dunes can give you! Year-round facilities include showers and restrooms. Dont forget to stop by the visitors center on your way in to the park. This national park located on the shores of Lake Michigan offers stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Nature transforms Sleeping Bear Dunes from season to season, and winter provides the opportunity to experience this wonderful landscape with fresh eyes. A good part of the history of our area relates, as you would expect, to the water and vessels plying it. Hiking shoes,hiking poles,andice cleatsif you visit in winter. Her favorite places are typically the hidden beaches and secret scenic overlooks throughout Michigan that most people dont know about. Youll also discover that youll have many of our most popular trails to yourself. Empire, The park is known for its scalable dunes at the Dune Climb. Since the dunes are a national park, the entrance fee is $25.00 unless you have a park pass on your vehicle. Yet activities are abundant and the Lakeshore remains a wonderful place to explore. Interns will gain valuable experience in the fields . 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. A visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park will have you spending time amongst the high dunes, as you gaze out towards the lake, the lighthouse, and many charming coastal villages. Ive seen people go all the way up with toboggans and crash helmets and come screaming down the hill. Cross-country skiing: The nearby Frankenmuth Golf Course offers cross-country skiing trails during the winter months. 9922 Front Street Ice fishing: Glen Lake, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, is a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. Within a 20 mile radius of Sleeping Bear Resort are four ski resorts, nine cross country ski & snowshoe trails, two snow tubing destinations and over 135 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center in Empire9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630. Her family also includes four cats. An avid traveler around Michigan, Casey enjoys gardening and running. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. Ice fishing in compliance with State of regulations is permitted. Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Sledding at the Dune Climb is not your typical 5-second race down your neighborhood hill. A rare treat, one I might never have again. In the winter, this 7.5-mile car loop, which stops at several scenic overlooks and trailheads, is closed to automobile traffic -- but open to foot traffic. #shareslbe #trailconditions #LakeMichigan, A post shared by SleepingBearNPS (@sleepingbearnps) on Dec 2, 2019 at 9:45am PST. She shrugged. Sleeping Bear Dunes Michigan winter season is the best time of year to spot the regions quiet wildlife. You can pick up an ice auger permit for free at the visitor center. The ideal conditions for this winter stroll? Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: There are several parks and nature preserves in the area that offer miles of snowshoe and cross-country ski trails. She loves trying to find places that people havent been before and loves writing about those places even more. Dining: Traverse City is a foodies paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. Its almost like a moonscape., Never gets old. 49630, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the best place for cross-country skiing in all of northern Michigan. In the lakeshores meadows and along streams and low shrub cover, you may find red and gray foxes, weasels, and squirrels. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants in town, or opt for a cozy cafe or pub. Coming to the Lakeshore? Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Spa day: There are several spas in Traverse City that offer couples massages, facials, as well as other relaxing treatments. When the conditions are right and the snow is great, its a fantastic time., Here's a mid-Monday conditions report. Fat Tire Bikes are ONLY allowed on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. You can read our complete privacy policy here. Hike past beech-maple forest and open fields on this fairly easy but somewhat hilly trail. Here you can find all info on domestic travel insurance for your trip. Since Dune Climb is the only area that permits sledding, it is important to stay up to date on the Parks policies. Tomorrowwe plan to groom from DH Day to the Dune Climb. And then everyone can head to nearby Glen Arbor after for hot chocolate. Couples can enjoy live music, food, and drinks while participating in fun winter activities. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Sleeping Bear Dunes has several trails that are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Hiking Hike 100 miles of designated trails in the Lakeshore. The Park is open seven days a week with the exception of some holidays. 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. 2 sets of classic tracks. The Lakeshore offers fascinating winter activities, but freezing temperatures, as well as slippery and unstable surfaces, create hazards. A souvenir is a must on this trip and the bookstore and museum have great options for keepsakes. 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. Youll discover that the views may be even more stunning against an icy backdrop. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. Plus, she said, the climb to the top is so exhausting that its a great spot to wear out kids. SunBuggy has 1 seat dune buggies available for kids that are a minimum of 60 inches tall. Camping is available all year at Platte River Campground. Beaches include Platte River Point, where the river flows into the lake. It is perfect for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Its probably number one on the list, she says. Couples can explore the snowy landscapes together and also take in the stunning winter scenery. 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. Cozy cafes and restaurants: Frankenmuth has several cafes and restaurants that offer cozy indoor seating and delicious food. Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses a 60 km (35 mi.) If youre inexperienced, another option is to take part in one of the ranger-led hikes which are available all winter long, or as long as weather permits and can be booked in the visitor center or online. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore preserves 71,000 acres of natural habitat. Winter on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is special. First and foremost, when it comes to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the dune climb is a must. There is a guide to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive available in the visitor center. Known as Michigans Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth is a charming town that celebrates the winter season with its annual Snowfest event. The trails, scenic views and popular destinations are all still herejust embellished with a new look. 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 . Couples can visit the many tasting rooms in town, take a wine tour, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the areas winery restaurants. This is where youll have all your questions answered while also picking up some history and useful information about the park. To help people get acquainted with the many possibilities that await adventurers in this underrated season, we asked Merrith Bauman, the park's chief of interpretation, to name a few of her favorite winter activities at Sleeping Bear. The section from Empire to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive (3 miles) is also beautiful, but has more challenging slopes. The Heritage Trail is a groomed trail that is perfect for a skier of any skill level, and its a great time no matter how many times youve been. Not only will soft conditions make biking an incredibly strenuous workout for you, but it also damages the groomed trails by leaving grooves on the paths. Sledding is permitted at the Dune Climb in the designated area only when it is covered with snow. If the reroute wasnt enough, the mornings icy trail would be a remake of last years mistake. If you are visiting during summer, check out these amazing Sleeping Bear Dunes beaches. Couples can enjoy a romantic meal or browse the local shops. We had climbed the steepest section of the trail down and backwards on all fours. Our proximity to Lake Michigan and the topography of the area are conducive to lots and lots of lake effect snow. Avalanche is a possibility on steep, snow-covered dunes. The atmosphere in the areas many fine restaurants and shops is also more relaxed and intimate in the winter months though hours may be limited, so be sure to plan your trip in advance. Gallery hopping: Saugatuck is home to several art galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. But I wasnt looking for cheeseheads - I couldnt take my eyes off the shades of water that changed and appeared and moved with each new inch of sunrise. Crosscountry ski or snow- shoe throughout the park or join a ranger . Frequently mentioned favorites include the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving. Believe it or not, for a select few of the most loyal fans of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the answer just might be winter. 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. In fact, younger kids may be better off starting in the middle of the hill. One day hardly seems enough to explore the vast and varied region that is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Coming to the Lakeshore? The trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip and has interpretive numbered posts along the way that correspond with info on the website. 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. Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission. However, we recommend that you use a compass if you are going to deviate from the hiking trails. Registration details will be included in the calendar listing. 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. 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. That means you not only have the 100 miles of trails but also any unpaved land as well to freely wander, spot wildlife, or simply enjoy the varied landscapes. The trails, scenic views and popular destinations are all still herejust embellished with a new look. The Story of Sleeping Bear. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. Pick up a Park Entrance Pass, maps, and brochures. The slowlymoving sand, seabirds and miles of greenish-blue water all add up to one thing- the sea. All rights reserved (About Us). Find your way to the Lakeshore by car, plane, or bus. The trail from Glen Arbor to the Dune Climb (4 miles) is relatively flat with beautiful scenery. But youre still a long way from Lake Michigan, which is 1.5 miles away. There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. Casey Johanson is a senior at Grand Valley State University and is passionate about writing and reading. Brewery tours: Frankenmuth is home to several breweries that offer tours and tastings. Anytime the dune is covered in snow the park designates a portion of the dune just for sledding. The Park designates many areas and summer hiking trails to be groomed and prepped for ideal skiing and winter sporting activities. And gray foxes, weasels, and we had the place to explore the snowy effortlessly. Point, where the River flows into the Lake paradise, with their wide wheels and low shrub,! Dunes from season to season, and we had climbed the steepest section of the Climb! 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