Traverse City: 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes

Traverse City’s 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes promises an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders. From the breathtaking Empire Bluffs to the historic village of Glen Haven, this comprehensive tour guides visitors through the area’s captivating geology and maritime heritage. With a scenic drive along the famous Pierce Stocking route, you will be treated to panoramic views of the dunes and nearby islands. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour offers a chance to uncover the captivating story that lies within this remarkable landscape.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Tours In Traverse City.

Key Points

• Explore the natural wonders of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with a 6-hour guided tour, including a hike to the Empire Bluffs overlook.
• Discover the region’s rich history and maritime heritage by visiting the historic village of Glen Haven.
• Enjoy a scenic drive along the picturesque Pierce Stocking Drive, taking in breathtaking views of Glen Lake and Lake Michigan.
• Learn about the unique geological features, flora, and fauna of the Sleeping Bear Dunes from an expert guide.
• Indulge in a catered lunch and refreshments throughout the tour, allowing for a fully immersive experience in the natural beauty of the area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The 6-hour tour of Traverse City’s Sleeping Bear Dunes, the area’s top attraction, allows visitors to discover the region’s natural landscape and rich history.

During the tour, guests will hike to the stunning Empire Bluffs overlook, which offers breathtaking views of Glen Lake, Sleeping Bear, and Lake Michigan.

The journey also includes a scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Drive and a chance to learn about the historic village of Glen Haven and the old schooners and steamships that once sailed the waters.

Travelers will enjoy a catered lunch and have the opportunity to take in the beauty of this unique natural wonder.

Highlights of the Tour

Hiking the 1.5-mile round trip to the Empire Bluffs overlook offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Glen Lake, Sleeping Bear, and the expansive Lake Michigan.

The scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Drive provides an opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Visitors will also explore the historic village of Glen Haven, learning about the area’s maritime past and the old schooners and steamships that once plied the waters.

The tour highlights include:

1. Admiring the stunning vistas from the Empire Bluffs overlook
2. Driving along the picturesque Pierce Stocking Drive
3. Discovering the rich history of the Glen Haven village
4. Enjoying the catered lunch and refreshments throughout the tour

Hike to Empire Bluffs

One of the highlights of the tour is the 1.5-mile round-trip hike to the Empire Bluffs overlook, where visitors can admire the stunning panoramic views of Glen Lake, Sleeping Bear, and the expansive Lake Michigan.

The moderately challenging hike takes guests through lush forests and up a series of wooden steps leading to the high bluffs. Along the way, the tour guide shares insights into the region’s history and ecology, pointing out notable features like the ancient glacial formations.

Reaching the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas stretching out in all directions. This scenic overlook is undoubtedly one of the tour’s most memorable stops, offering a chance to fully take in the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Scenic Drive Along Pierce Stocking

After the refreshing hike to the Empire Bluffs overlook, the tour continues along the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive, winding through the dunes and forests of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 7-mile loop offers breathtaking views of Glen Lake and Lake Michigan.

Along the way, the guide highlights:

1. The unique geological features formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago.
2. The diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this protected ecosystem.
3. The history of the area, including the logging and maritime industries that once dominated the region.
4. The importance of preserving this natural wonder for future generations to enjoy.

The drive allows participants to enjoy the serene beauty of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.

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Views of the Region

Atop the Empire Bluffs, the tour group often gazes out over the sweeping vistas of Glen Lake and Lake Michigan, marveling at the serene beauty of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.

From this lofty perch, visitors can see the stunning contrast between the crystal-clear waters and the rolling, sand-covered dunes that seem to stretch endlessly into the distance.

Further along the tour, the group drives across the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive, taking in breathtaking panoramas of the region’s natural wonders.

Whether it’s the pristine beaches, the towering bluffs, or the picturesque inland lakes, the views throughout the tour leave a lasting impression on all who experience them.

Historic Village of Glen Haven

The tour group stops at the historic village of Glen Haven, where they learn about the region’s maritime past. The quaint settlement, nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, once served as a bustling hub for schooners and steamships that plied the Great Lakes. Visitors explore the preserved buildings, including the old general store and the Coast Guard station, gaining insights into the lives of the area’s former inhabitants.

The historic village offers a glimpse into several key aspects of the region’s history:

1. The importance of maritime trade and transportation in the development of the area.

2. The challenges faced by the local population in supporting and servicing the passing ships.

3. The evolution of technology, from sail-powered vessels to steam-powered ships.

4. The role of the Coast Guard in ensuring the safety of mariners on the Great Lakes.

Inclusions in the Tour

The tour package includes round-trip transportation, a catered lunch, and entrance fees to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Snacks and drinks are also provided throughout the 6-hour excursion. This ensures that guests can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the region without worrying about logistics.

The transportation allows for a hassle-free experience, while the catered lunch and refreshments keep everyone energized.

By covering the entrance fees, the tour eliminates another barrier, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the stunning dunes and scenic overlooks.

Booking and Cancellation Details

Travelers can easily book this 6-hour Sleeping Bear Dunes tour, as it’s likely to sell out quickly. The cost is $165 per person, and guests can reserve their spot now while paying later.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

The booking and cancellation details for this tour offer several advantages:

1. Convenient reservation process with pay-later option
2. Refundable cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the tour
3. Limited group size to ensure a personalized experience
4. High demand suggesting the tour’s popularity and quality

These booking and cancellation policies make this Sleeping Bear Dunes tour an attractive option for travelers seeking a hassle-free and flexible experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it may not be suitable for very young children as the hike and outdoor activities could be challenging. Guests should consider their child’s ability to participate comfortably in the tour.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is limited to participants only, as the small group size and safety considerations do not accommodate bringing pets. Participants should leave their furry companions at home for this excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?

Sure, guests can bring their own lunch or snacks on the tour. The tour includes a catered lunch, but if you’d prefer to bring your own food, that’s perfectly fine. Just keep in mind the tour’s time constraints.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?

The tour is not fully wheelchair or stroller accessible. While the scenic drive is suitable, the hike to the Empire Bluffs overlook has uneven terrain that may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Can I Receive a Refund if the Weather Is Bad?

Yes, you can receive a full refund if the weather is bad on the day of the tour. The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for this reason.

Recap

The Traverse City: 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

From the stunning Empire Bluffs overlook to the scenic drive along Pierce Stocking and the historic village of Glen Haven, this tour provides an immersive experience in the serene landscapes and unique geological features of the area.

It’s an excellent way to discover the significance of this picturesque region.

You can check availability for your dates here: