Worth the Drive

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is a must see when visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Pierce Stocking Drive is a 7.4 mile loop located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. There is natural beauty everywhere you look Up North, and a few of the most breathtaking views of the region are along this route. The drive can be accessed by car, or by pedal power of you are willing to tackle some very hilly terrain. Along with panoramic views of the area, you can drive through forests and dunes and witness the ecological diversity that comes with being so close to the Lakeshore.

“There is natural beauty everywhere you look Up North.”

There are many Points-of-Interest along the way which keep people coming back to the region again and again. Here is a taste of what to expect.

Just past the entrance, a covered bridge stands sentinel welcoming folks to the pristine drive.

As you meander through the twists and turns of the park, well marked signs direct you to overlooks along the way. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch and carve out some time on Picnic Hill.

The Lake Michigan Overlook provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the 450 foot dune that it rests upon.

Take a hike on the Cottonwood trail, the mile loop that traverses sand dunes for a little extra workout. Remember that the hot sun on the sand makes the environment much warmer than it would appear- always bring water!

The entrance to the National Lakeshore is $25 per vehicle, and the pass can be used up to seven days granting access to other sites in the park like the beloved Dune Climb located just up the way. The whole experience should take 1-2.5 hours depending on how long you wish to stop at each of the points of interest.

Once your journey through the drive is done, you will realize why this Point of Interest is a must see when visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.