Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is named for a Chippewa Indian legend of the large dune overlooking the Lake Michigan shoreline and two islands that sit about 15 miles off the shore. But this charming story is only one of many reasons you will want to visit this national park. Its beaches, water sports, dune climbing, wildlife and the breathtaking vistas will all make your trip unforgettable.
Must See and Do at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Without question you must see the Sleeping Bear dune, the Manitou Islands, go dune climbing and enjoy the beaches, wildlife, scenic drives and trails. But you must also see the Maritime Museum in Glen Haven and watch the reenactment of the Lyle Gun that is given every day at 3 p.m. in the summer. The Lyle Gun shoots a rescue line 400 yards out into the lake for ships in distress. During the reenactments, Raggedy Ann and Andy are rescued so people can see how the Lyle Gun rescue works. Tours of the park led by rangers and the campfire programs are also fun for the whole family.
Best and Worst Times to Go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
The best time to go if you don't care about swimming is in the fall when the forests are a spectacular, colorful sight. The park is obviously more crowded during the summer when people are there for the beaches, boating, fishing and other water sports.
Admission to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Admission is $10 per vehicle, which gets you in for 7 days and can be purchased at the visitors center or one of the other locations in the park. If you want to buy a pass online before you go, you can buy an annual pass for just $20, which gets you in for a whole year, but you must plan ahead so there is time for the pass to be mailed to you. Special discounted or lifetime passes are available for the U.S. military and their dependents, disabled people and senior citizens, but those are only issued in person at the park. There are nine free admission days that are listed on the park's website.
Wildlife at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
There is an abundance of fish, hundreds of species of birds and small reptiles at the lakeshore. White-tailed deer, coyote, red fox, striped skunks, rabbits, squirrels, and other small mammals are also plentiful. Black bear are said to be present in the park but sightings have been rare. Deer are so prevalent on North Manitou Island that deer hunts are scheduled at specific times during the year. You will need a permit issued by the park to participate in this hunt as well as a Michigan hunting license.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Be sure and take a day trip to South Manitou Island to tour the lighthouse for the most breathtaking view of the area.
Author's bio: Susan Hoskins Miller is a writer who lives in metropolitan Indianapolis and works in a university library. In her free time, she enjoys being with her family and exploring places in the Midwest.