Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan, United States
4.5 (140 reviews) Spent Ranking #5 in Leelanau County Hiking Trails
Sand Dune Mountain
This 4.5-mile challenging hiking trail is the most popular in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Address
6748 S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI 49630-9446
Mobile
Website
http://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/hiking.htm
Current local date and time now
Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 8:46
User Ratings
4.5 based on (140 reviews)
Excellent
79%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Reviews
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5Winstle 5:00 PM Jun 9, 2022
Unique Experience with Great Views
We read reviews and only planned to climb the initial hill by the parking lot with our kids under 5, but we ended up going to marker 15 where we could see Lake Michigan in the distance. The hike is strenuous so definitely bring water (even for the first hill if it’s hot out) and food (if you plan to make it to Lake Michigan). Totally different flora than what we were used to. Most people hiked barefoot (we did too). We hiked on an enjoyable 60deg day but it was still hot on the sand in some areas. We really enjoyed the experience!
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5kvvk8675 5:00 PM Aug 30, 2020
Long Fabulous barefoot hike
Hiked the Dune Hike late in the day (5:30). Other reviews stated that the sand can get hot and to bring plenty of water. At this time of day it was perfect. Hiked barefoot with water. It does take an hour to get there, and it seems never ending. As soon as you crest one dune, there are 2 more in the distance, and it just keeps going and going! Some crests are more challenging than others. We hiked with a 12 year old, and finished no problem. However, we saw many families that gave up and turned around. If you are in decent shape you can complete this hike without stopping, or if your not, just take your time and stop and you will also make it. The end you are rewarded with an amazing view of Lake Michigan. We walked the beach for a while and waded in the cool water. The hike back, the sun was going down so we were able to see the beautiful sunset (which many hiked in for). We took our time and had fun looking at all the different native plants. We took the blue marked "trail" on the way back. It is a little easier path. Great time, would definitely hike it again.