Along Michigan’s Great Lakes shoreline you can find some of the most beautiful sand dunes. Michigan is home to more than 300,000 acres of sand dunes that offer breathtaking views and exciting experiences for everyone. If you have never been to a Michigan sand dune or are looking for a new one to explore, then it is time for you to schedule a trip! Here is a roundup of some of the most thrilling and stunning sand dunes in Michigan.
Image: silversandsresort.net
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan you can find 2,000 acres of sand dunes at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. These dunes are situated between the towns of Mears, Pentwater, and Hart, but the sand dunes themselves are actually nestled between Lake Michigan and an inland lake, Silver Lake. This natural phenomenon is divided into three sections that each feature different fun activities. In the northern area of the dunes, you are able to drive your own off-road-vehicle along the sand. The center of the dunes has access to both Silver Lake and Lake Michigan, and in this region, you are able to walk around and sandboard. And lastly, the third section of the dunes is where you can find Mac Woods Dune Rides. This exciting attraction features a 7-mile tour of the sand dunes and Lake Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Voted by the viewers of Good Morning America as one of the most beautiful places in America, the Sleeping Bear Dunes is truly one of the most spectacular (and massive) sand dunes in Michigan. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore covers a 35-mile long stretch of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, and both North and South Manitou Islands. However, to reach the main attraction of the dunes you have to drive through the 7-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive that will stop you at the observation deck. At this point, you will be 450 feet above Lake Michigan and are able to experience the breathtaking views. If you choose to go all the way down the dunes, just remember it is a tough climb back up –but completely worth it!
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
In a secluded strip of Lake Michigan, you can find the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. This park offers 2.5 miles of shoreline and dunes that are over 200 feet tall. To reach this destination, it is a short 0.6 mile walk from the picnic parking area. However, another fun way to see this Michigan treasure is by taking a Saugatuck Dune Ride. During this 40 minute ride, you are able to sit back and enjoy a tour of the Saugatuck Dunes.
Grand Sable Banks and Dunes
The Grand Sable Dunes are located on the shoreline of Lake Superior. The dunes cover a 5-mile stretch in the Upper Peninsula and are in the eastern portion of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The best way to reach these dunes and experience the beauty of them is to start at the Sable Falls parking area, which will then lead you through Sable Creek, forests, and dune transition areas. The Grand Sable Dunes rise up to 300 feet above Lake Superior, but it is recommended to not climb the dunes since the dunes vegetation is fragile. The Log Slide is also part of the Grand Sable Banks and Dunes where you are able to climb. However, the slope is very steep and it is a 500-foot climb back up!
