Dune Climb

Would you like to climb a sand dune in the Midwest? The Dune Climb in Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore gives you the opportunity to do just that. The Dune Climb is about 28-mile drive from Traverse City; the parking area for the Dune Climb is located on the west side of highway M-109 and just north of Pierce Stocking Scenic Road. Near the large parking lot there is a visitor center with a bookstore, modern restrooms, a picnic area, and a playground. There is a fee to enter Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore; in 2021 the cost of a 7-day vehicle pass was $25.

From the parking lot it is about a 150-foot climb to reach the top of the dune. The top of the dune provides a nice view of Glen Lake. Dogs are not allowed on the Dune Climb. For those looking for a longer adventure, visitors can take the Dune trail all the way to Lake Michigan. This is a 3.5 mile out-and-back hike. This can be a strenuous hike given the loose sand and elevation changes, so be prepared with plenty of water and proper footwear.