Archive for the ‘Outdoor Adventure’ Category

Planning for Distanced Activities

Posted on by Mae Stier •

As we move through summer, we have witnessed the return of visitors to our region. We are grateful to everyone who is visiting with intention, wearing masks as directed, and […]

Winter Fun in Empire

Posted on by Mae Stier •

We are over halfway through winter, and northern Michigan has quieted as usual during the “off-season”. The slower season can be a perfect time for traveling to Leelanau County, as […]

Beach Reinforcement Efforts

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Great Lakes water levels made headlines all year. During 2019, Great Lakes water levels reached or tied their highest readings from the last 100 years. Many Lake Michigan shoreline communities […]

Autumn Adventure in Empire

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Photo by Jessie Zevalkink Fall Colors to Peak October 12-19, 2019 in Northern Michigan Autumn colors are just a few weeks away from their projected peak, making it the perfect […]

Dog-friendly Winter Hikes

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Photo by Crow’s Feet Photo & Design As cabin fever sets in with a ferocity, we know the desire to get outside is strong. Spring is so close, yet still […]

Hiker’s Guide to Empire

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Empire’s Best Treks, from Easy to Adventurous As the gateway to the Sleeping Bears Dunes, the village of Empire is a hiker’s heaven. With miles of secluded trails winding through […]

Your Next Stop on M-22

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Centrally located, Empire is the perfect launching pad for every M-22 adventure. Voted the #1 scenic highway in the country by USA Today, M-22 draws travelers from across the globe […]

Beaches & Bonfires

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Fun in Sleeping Bear means family, friends, and beach bonfires. That’s right, beach fires are permitted in the park, while following some important guidelines. Grab a stack of firewood and […]

Rediscover the Outdoors this Spring

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Springtime brings excitement to re-discover the outdoors. From hiking through the Sleeping Bear Dunes to surfing on Lake Michigan, Empire is the destination that has it all. Make a day […]

Backcountry Biking Guide

Posted on by Mae Stier •

What better way to experience Sleeping Bear Dunes than rolling on two wheels through a forest canopy of hardwoods and scenic lake views? Although bikes aren’t permitted on the park’s […]

7 Ways to Spend a Snow Day in Empire

Posted on by Mae Stier •

Winter in northern Michigan is no time to hibernate. One of its best-kept secrets is the icy beauty—and solitude—of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Headquartered in the village of Empire, […]