The best walks and hikes around Glen Arbor

Yes, the region has many options suitable for families. The Alligator Hill Easy Trail loop is a great choice, offering a relatively short walk through the forest. Another excellent option is the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a 27-mile paved path that is perfect for a leisurely stroll with children and connects several key points of interest.

Dogs are permitted on some trails but have restrictions within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Leashed dogs are generally welcome on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and at certain drive-in campgrounds. However, they are not allowed on the main dune climbs or most backcountry trails to protect wildlife. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current rules before you go.

Many trails offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan. The Empire Bluff Trail is a popular choice that leads to a high boardwalk with panoramic vistas. For a more strenuous hike directly through the dunes with constant lake views, the Sleeping Bear Point Trail loop is an unforgettable experience.

The Alligator Hill trail system is your best bet for seeing both lakes. The trails climb through a hardwood forest to several viewpoints. From the 'Islands Lookout' and 'Big Glen Lookout' points, you can see both the vastness of Lake Michigan and the entirety of Glen Lake below.

While the area has no technically difficult mountain climbs, you can find plenty of challenging hikes. The Dunes Trail to Lake Michigan is a strenuous 3.7-mile (6.0 km) trek across deep sand and steep dunes, which is very physically demanding.

Many hikes begin from well-known trailheads. The Dune Climb is a famous starting point for strenuous hikes across the dunes to Lake Michigan. For forested trails, the Alligator Hill Trail trailhead is a popular choice. The Empire Bluff Trail is another highly-regarded starting point for one of the area's most scenic short hikes.

Summer and fall are the most popular seasons for hiking. Summer offers warm weather perfect for combining a hike with a swim in Lake Michigan. Autumn is spectacular, as the forests erupt in vibrant colors. Spring is quieter, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on trails like the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

The trails range from easy to moderate. There are over 30 routes in the area, with the majority rated as easy. These include paved paths and flat forest walks. Moderate trails often involve climbing dunes or ascending hills, like the Alligator Hill Intermediate Trail loop, which requires more stamina due to elevation gain and sandy sections.

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a paved, multi-use path that is generally accessible for wheelchairs. It runs for 27 miles, connecting Empire, the Dune Climb, and Glen Arbor, offering several accessible segments for enjoying the region's scenery. The boardwalk at the top of the Empire Bluff Trail also provides an accessible viewpoint.

For any hike, bring plenty of water, especially for dune hikes where there is no shade. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as many trails involve sand or uneven terrain. It's also wise to pack snacks and a map, as cell service can be unreliable in parts of the National Lakeshore.

Most official trailheads within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore have designated parking areas, such as those at the Dune Climb, Empire Bluff, and Sleeping Bear Point. A park entrance pass is required to use these facilities. You can purchase a pass at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire or at some trailheads.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning, panoramic views of Lake Michigan from the top of the dunes and bluffs. The unique experience of hiking on sand and the contrast between the forested trails and the open dunes are also common highlights.