SBHT - Dune Climb Trailhead

This way to the trail.

NPS credit

Quick Facts

Amenities

5 listed

Entrance Passes for Sale, Picnic Table, Restroom, Trailhead, Wheelchair Accessible

Trail Map

A delight to ride, the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is one of Michigan's most beautiful biking trails. A 10-foot-wide picturesque path that winds idyllically through the pristine, tranquil forests and undulating hills of the Lakeshore, the multi-use trail connects major attractions in Sleeping Bear Dunes and is suitable for recreational use by cyclists, wheelchair users, runners pushing baby strollers, and rollerbladers.

Leashed pets are NOT allowed on this trail from December 1 to March 31 .

While most of the terrain is fairly easy, all ages can enjoy the trail. There are a couple of steeper segments, but these climbs are almost immediately rewarded by swift descents, and benches and picnic tables along the trail offer a place to rest and take in the sounds and sights of the cool forest or bask in the warm beach sun.

The SBHT is managed and maintained by Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and an excellent interactive map of the trail which can show trailheads, parking, water, steep climbs, etc can be found at friendsofsleepingbear.org/sbht-i-map/

Dune Climb Trailhead

Sitting at the foot of the famous Dune Climb, this trailhead offers parking, bike racks, a donor recognition plaza with plenty of benches for resting, and during the summer season, toilets, drinking water, and a bookstore.

One of the most popular rides of the trail is the 4.3-mile segment from the Dune Climb to Glen Arbor. Weaving through forest and sandy hills, it passes through Glen Haven-a great place to stop to take a dip in Lake Michigan, check out the boats in the Cannery, or watch a blacksmith at work.

Winter skiing
In winter, the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes grooms segments of the trail for both classic Nordic skiers and skaters as well as providing a lane for snowshoers.

Trail Etiquette

Show consideration for other trail users
Stay on trail to be respectful of plants and wildlife
Stop at road crossings
Ride single file when other users are present
Ride slow and steady
Wear a helmet while skating or riding
Stay to right and alert others by saying "on your left" when passing
Do not block trail - please move to the side when stopped on trail
Keep pets on a leash
Dispose of all trash and animal waste in trash receptacles
Trail users need a park pass
Some of the SBHT passes through or in front of private property. Be careful and respectful of the rights of these property owners