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 supporting our local businesses. In order to continue to protect our community, we ask you to read about the measures we are all taking to […]
Archive for the ‘Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore’ Category
Winter Fun in Empire
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 the rates for lodging are lower, you don’t have to wait to get a table at your favorite restaurant, and the trails are quieter. We’ve […]
Autumn Adventure in Empire
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 time to plan for a Northern Michigan color tour. Whether you are looking for the most active way to enjoy the scenery or a more […]
SLBE and the Government Shutdown
Hiking trails and beaches remained open throughout the government shutdown, but limited services were available to Sleeping Bear Dunes visitors. As of January 27, the Visitor Center and administrative offices were reopened. The United States federal government was partially shutdown from December 22 to January 25, and its closing affected the National Parks Service. The […]
Hiker’s Guide to Empire
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 forests, over dunes, and along towering bluffs, there’s a reason the park is called “The Most Beautiful Place in America.” Starting in town, you’re just […]
Your Next Stop on M-22
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 with promises of sandy, sweeping vistas rivaling America’s oceansides—minus the crowds. Winding around the dune-covered northwest section of Lake Michigan, the landscape boasts towering bluffs, […]
Beaches & Bonfires
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 marshmallows for roasting—and maybe a star chart if you’ve got one—and head to one of many spots listed below for a memorable sunset and starlit […]
Rediscover the Outdoors this Spring
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 of it by stopping at one of our local eateries on your way out of town. Crystal River Outfitters (Glen Arbor) | Opening for the […]
Backcountry Biking Guide
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 popular hiking trails, there are plenty of backcountry cycling options in the Empire area ranging from effortless to extreme. Rent a cargo bike for the […]
7 Ways to Spend a Snow Day in Empire
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, the 71,000 acre park is open all year and rewards off-season adventurers with scenic views rarely experienced by the average tourist. As snow builds over […]