One of the most beautiful scenic drives you can take while in Northern Michigan is the Pierce Stocking Drive which is located within the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. This 7.5 mile drive winds up and down through both the deep woods and dunes area along beautiful Lake Michigan.

A $10 per-car day pass is required but well worth it. This pass will also allow you entrance into other National Lakeshore attractions for the day. The entrance to the drive is located on M-109 just South of the famous Sleeping Bear Dune climb and North of the town of Empire, Michigan. Before entering Pierce Stocking Drive, stop at the Park Visitor’s Center in Empire. They have restrooms, maps and brochures of the Park, a beautiful nature display and a nature-oriented gift shop. Films about the National Lakeshore are shown on a regular basis in the Center.

Take your camera to capture breathtaking views of the dunes and the lake. Highlights of the drive include two spectacular dune overlooks, views of Big & Little Glen Lakes and a trailhead leading you to the summit of the Sleeping Bear Dune without climbing up the dune itself. One of the dune overlooks allows you to watch a few hardy souls hike to the bottom of a 450 foot dune going to the shore of Lake Michigan. The challenge is climbing back up to the top! This is a rigorous climb and should be done only if you are in great shape and have plenty of time. The Park actually discourages people from doing this as it is at your own risk.

While on the drive you might catch a glimpse of a variety of critters that inhabit the area. Beech, maple, pine and basswood trees abound along with many interesting wildflowers and shrubs. Take along a picnic lunch and enjoy it at either of the two picnic areas. Bicycling is permitted but challenging, considering the steep hills you will encounter. Take your time, and enjoy an example of the great outdoors in Northern Michigan.

For more information see: http://www.nps.gov/slbe/