The Most Iconic View in Michigan Is Also a Stunning Slice of History

Located on the western edge of the Lower Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes is home to some of the most dramatic scenery in all of the Great Lakes State, and arguably, of course, none may be as beautiful as those offered by Empire Bluff. In fact, I think the vistas from Empire Bluff just may be the most iconic view in Michigan. As beautiful as the panorama is, though, the area's history offers an extra layer of interest that makes this place even more fascinating.

If you ask me, the best way to enjoy this incredible view is a hike along Empire Bluff's namesake trail. The Empire Bluff Trail is moderately challenging, thanks to slow going in the sand and a few ups and downs along the way, but it's only a mile and a half out and back; boardwalks make up a section of the trail, as well.

The amazing sights at Sleeping Bear Dunes include the incredible night sky, which, as one of the darkest places on the Lower Peninsula, offers fantastic stargazing. From the landscape to the lakeshore and the dark skies, this is a special place. So special, in fact, that Native peoples made their homes in this region for centuries before the arrival of settlers. The name of the place, itself, is derived from the Anishinaabek, who used the great dune as landmark, calling it Mother Bear, because it once resembled a sleeping bear. Anishinaabe oral tradition offered explanations for how this giant bear came to be - and you can learn about them on your visit to the park.

With the Great Lakes State's incredible, fascinating history and incomparable natural beauty, it's not really easy to say that one spot offers the most iconic view in Michigan, but it's not this one, the vista from Empire Bluff at Sleeping Dunes National Lakeshore is definitely a top contender.

In fact, this entire part of Michigan is stunning. If you're up for an adventure, from Sleeping Bear Dunes head up the shore a couple hours, through Traverse City and Charlevoix, to the charming town of Petoskey, where you'll find plenty more to explore. Combining these two spots and connecting them with a gorgeous drive certainly makes for an excellent day trip or, better yet, I think, weekend getaway - especially in fall when the colors are popping. Tuck yourself away in the woods outside of Petoskey at the cozy Northern Nest - you may never want to leave.