Love Sequoia National Park? Try This Similar Spot in Michigan

Do you know that you can see a “Big Tree” in Michigan? I’m not talking about a tall pine behind your neighbor’s garage or that maple that drops leaves like an impressionist painting in action. I mean a capital "B," capital "T" big tree, which usually requires a cross-country flight, a rental car, and at least two pairs of hiking socks.

For me, that "Big Tree" has always meant Sequoia National Park: the land of giants. It’s been on my bucket list since middle school, back when I thought arborists were rock stars. I still haven’t made the trip... but maybe I don't need to?

Imagine my surprise when I discovered I could get a taste of that grandeur right here in Michigan. Tucked away in Manistee County is Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary, home to the largest giant sequoia east of the Rockies. This gem is only about 3.5 hours from Metro Detroit, and let me tell you—it’s worth the drive. (Bonus: You can swing by Orchard Beach State Park afterward for a gorgeous Lake Michigan sunset.)

Originally landscaped as an arboretum, the Lake Bluff property is home to a surprising cast of characters: California redwoods, ginkgos, a Michigan champion sycamore, and yes, one show-stopping sequoia tree that’s over 116 feet tall. That’s nearly half the size of General Sherman (the world's largest tree), but let’s be real—it’s still bigger than most office buildings. In a region where the average tree height tops out at “nice Christmas tree,” this is no small feat.

The park itself is a stunner. Nestled on 76 acres along Lake Michigan’s glittering shoreline, Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary is a haven for hikers, birders, and anyone who wants to be in nature but also stay within 20 minutes of a decent sandwich. With over 1,500 feet of lake frontage, there’s plenty of space to roam.

The Jack Fern Trail is your go-to route for seeing the big trees; it’s a 1.3-kilometer loop that takes about 18 minutes to walk, which means it’s perfect for low-key nature lovers and those of us wearing sneakers instead of hiking boots. The trail is dotted with plaques that teach you about the local plant life, and while a donation is appreciated, the experience itself is priceless.

This place isn’t just about trees. It’s a bird-watching paradise, with 178 species spotted here. Bald eagles, shorebirds, and those lovely little migrating warblers flutter through the sanctuary all year round. Because the park sits smack dab in a major migratory flyway, it hosts one of Michigan’s top birding events, the Migration Celebration. It’s basically Coachella for birds... only with fewer bucket hats.

But the big tree action doesn’t stop there. On the same property, you'll find Lake Bluff Farms, where three more giant sequoias live, including Michigan’s official champion tree. Planted in 1948 from California saplings brought over by Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Gray, these towering giants have stunned arborists for decades. They were only eight inches tall when planted. Now? The tallest is 116 feet, and still growing. It’s the largest Giant Sequoia east of the Mississippi, and botanists around the world can’t believe how well it’s thrived in our cold, snowy climate.

Feeling inspired? Me too. And here’s the best part... you can stay overnight at the original Lake Bluff farmhouse, steps from the big trees. I’m already planning my return trip. Because yes, I want to wake up early, sip coffee on a porch, and greet a 100-foot tree like it’s an old friend.

If you’re making the trek, don’t forget to eat like a local. Pop into Northern Spice Company in Manistee, where you can grab local spices and ingredients to keep the magic going back at home. And if you’re staying the night, and the farmhouse is all rented out, I found the perfect alternative: a cozy cottage with a hot tub and firepit, ideal for stargazing and processing the fact that Michigan has a sequoia tree, and no one told us sooner.

So, Michiganders (and tree nerds everywhere), the big trees of our dreams are closer than we think. Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary is your low-key, high-reward dupe for Sequoia National Park—and you don’t even have to take your shoes off at TSA to get there.

Find your next Michigan adventure with Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.