Empire Bluff Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Lake · Views

DO NOT descend the bluff. The trail gets very busy in the summer and there is limited parking at the trailhead. There is some parking along the street and an outhouse located near the start of the trail. Fees are required to enter Sleeping Bear Dunes. PLEASE NOTE - FAILURE TO OBTAIN A PARK PASS MAY RESULT IN A FINE. Visit the NPS website for additional information.

From NPS: "The view of the Lake Michigan shoreline and South Bar Lake from the Empire Bluff Overlook is spectacular. On a clear day, you'll also see South Manitou Island. On this hike you'll also find 6 numbered posts which correspond to an interpretive description of the area along the trail. Be sure to pick up a trail map brochure at the trailhead and take it along with you on your hike."

Head out from the parking lot through the beech-maple forest and follow along the interpretive tour if you wish. As you continue along the trail, you'll encounter some moderate to steep rolling hills along the way. There is a smaller overlook on the right with a bench to take a breather if you need, but keep going! You don't want to miss the best views.

As you near the end, the trail turns in to a skinnier boardwalk and opens to excellent views of the nearby dunes and beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan. Keep going on the boardwalk a little ways for a great spot to eat lunch and take in the views or take a quick rest before you head back the same way you arrived.

It appears that you could continue along the trail after the boardwalk section, but this area turns to sand. DO NOT descend the bluff toward the lake.

Beech-maple forest, fields, and dune plants.