SLEEPING BEAR DUNES
The fall colors peak in mid-October around these northern Michigan dunes. The time of year is perfect for touring orchards, strolling the shoreline and hiking the epic Empire Bluff Trail, renowned for its views of vivid autumn trees against a canvas of Lake Michigan’s blues and greens. You may start the hike to reach only the overlook, but you’ll be pleased to find that the trail itself, tunneling through lush yellows and oranges, makes for a stunning afternoon. If you’re looking for a relaxing drive, winding along the 7-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive gives you many gorgeous overlooks of the great lake and surrounding inland lakes. (The sunrise over Glen Lakes is said to be particularly good!)
PEAK FALL COLORS | Mid-October
PITCH OR PARK | D.H. Day Campground has easy access to the dunes and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
PLAN YOUR TRIP | nps.gov/slbe