Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Is An Inexpensive Road Trip Destination In Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most unique corners of the United States. Located about a 4 1/2-hour drive from Detroit, the Lakeshore combines the best of the beach and the woods. It's the nexus of science, nature, and relaxation.

The Lakeshore is named for the dunes that sit perched above Lake Michigan on towering headlands, sometimes sitting 400+ feet above the lake. This provides unparalleled views of the waterscape.

This diverse terrain was shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. That natural legacy means visitors today can spot rare types of trees and birds around the park, and experience both beaches and woods in one setting.

In the summer visitors can enjoy swimming and picnicking on the beach and canoeing, kayaking, and tubing on Lake Michigan.

When winter rolls around visitors can snowshoe, cross country or downhill ski, snowboard, and hike the varied landscape.

It costs just $25 for a vehicle pass to get into the Lakeshore and there are campsites available inside the park for overnight stays, making this a very affordable natural getaway. Best yet, you can choose a campsite with electricity, showers, and modern restrooms or rough it in the more rustic campsites in different areas of the park.

While you're touring the park, keep an eye out for Petoskey Stone. A Petoskey stone is a fossilized coral dating back to 350 million years ago when they thrived in the shallow waters of this area. Those that still exist in the park are a reminder of the deep ecological history around you.

This truly unique road trip will bring you to what feels like a completely different country. The diverse landscape, natural history, and low barrier of entry make it the perfect trip for nature lovers and beach bums alike.