Michigan's sand dunes are one of the state's top tourist destinations.
Michigan boasts the world's largest collection of freshwater dunes. These unique landforms are the backdrop to a vacation paradise for the entire family. Beaches, hiking and Nordic skiing trails, resorts and a plethora of recreational activities await vacationers. To plan your vacation you need to do a little research and make some choices, and then you'll be on your way.
Instructions
Research Your Destination
1. Explore the State of Michigan's tourism website, which is packed with detailed information about different Dunes vacation spots.
2. Visit your local AAA branch and obtain the tour book and maps for Michigan, which are free for members and available for purchase to the public.
3. Buy a guide book to the area, like Jim DuFresne's The Complete Guide to Michigan Sand Dunes. DuFresne's book gives detailed geographical and scientific information but also has guides for tourists.
Select a Specific Destination
4. The Dunes cover hundreds of miles of Michigan's coastline, and there are nearly 50 duneland areas. Narrow down a particular area to make your vacation spot.
5. Consider Warren Dunes and Saugatuck Dunes State Parks, where you'll find miles of shoreline, hiking trails and wildlife spotting.
6. Add Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to your list of possible vacation spots. Its Dune Climb is always open. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive rewards visitors with views of Lake Michigan, Glen Lake and the Manitou Islands.
7. If you're looking to combine a vacation among the sand dunes with some city slicking, look at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area and its surrounding cities, Hart and Mears. Farm markets dot the area in summer and fall.
Plan Your Leisure Time
8. In winter look for places to cross country ski, like Warren Dunes State Park and Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
9. Summer is the most popular season around the Dunes. You may want to take your trip when the weather is kind, and the beaches are open for swimming and sunbathing.
10. If you have an off-road vehicle keep in mind that Silver Lake Sand Dunes is the only dune area that allows vehicle access.
Find a Place to Stay
11. Determine whether you want to stay in a hotel or if you'd prefer to camp.
12. Warren Dunes State Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore have campgrounds, which can be reserved in advance directly with park services.
13. Dunes communities offer a variety of lodging opportunities. Visit local tourism and chamber of commerce websites for links to food and lodging in the area, or make arrangements with a travel agent.
Get There
14. Most visitors to the Dunes come by car. Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland and many other Midwest cities are within a half-day drive.
15. Car and passenger ferries transport vehicles and people between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
16. For visitors from farther afield, the airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan serves the Dunes area.
Tips Warnings
1. Make reservations if you are planning to visit during peak season. Some popular areas fill up quickly.
2. To save money, travel in the off season. Some dunelands are open all year, and you'll enjoy smaller crowds at reduced prices if you visit during low season.
1. Avoid disappointment by making sure the attraction you're hoping to see is open. For example, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is closed from late November through early April. Silver Lake State Park is only open from April through October.
2. Vacations to state and national parks can be economical, but you often must pay entrance fees.
Related Posts:
What Kind Of Landforms Did Glaciers Make In Michigan
Western Michigan's beach dunes attract summer tourists.Most of the topography in the entire state of Michigan was formed by glacial activity that began nearly two million years ago. The state feat...
Landforms Of Illinois
Glaciers are the source of many Illinois landforms.The state of Illinois has a vast history of glacier movements and other historical events that have shaped its geography, leaving behind a number...
Texas Mountain Vacations
The West Texas mountains provide a view of desertscape filled with yucca and cacti.If you're thinking of exploring the natural beauty of Texas, consider visiting the state's mountains. You can pla...
Plan A Road Trip From Seattle To Portland Maine
A trip across country from the Pacific Northwest to the Atlantic coast will lead you through 15 states and about 3,200 miles of highway. The whole drive will take close to 60 hours, so break it up...
Make A Small Brick Patio
A small brick patio provides a spot for you to relax.If you have a small area in your backyard, you can create a small brick patio for entertainment space. Whether the space is just large enough t...
