Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
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Contact Information:
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630
231-326-5134
http://www.nps.gov/slbe/
Size: 71,195 acres.
Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in Michigan, on the northwestern shore of Lake Michigan's lower peninsula. Many north-south highways approach the park, including US 31 along Lake Michigan, US 131 through Grand Rapids, and I-75, which runs the length of the state into the Upper Peninsula.
Description: This diverse landscape features massive sand dunes, birch-lined streams, white sand beaches, beech-maple forests, clear lakes, and rugged bluffs towering as high as 460 feet above Lake Michigan. Two offshore wilderness islands -- North and South Manitou -- offer tranquility and seclusion.
Activities: Favorite activities include the seven-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and the Dune Climb. Visitors can also enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and cross-country skiing. Ranger-led walks, evening programs and other activities are available in July and August. The park's Maritime Museum is open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day and offers a daily re-enactment of a life-saving service rescue, especially geared toward children.Operating Hours: The park is open on a year-round basis. The visitor center is open daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.
History: Authorized on October 21, 1970; established on October 21, 1977.
See other National Lakeshores
See other Michigan National Parks
