The quaint town of Empire is home to some of the most scenic views Michigan has to offer. From the sprawling coastline, mountainous sand dunes, and endless trail systems, visitors who love the outdoors are never short on things to do. But for many, especially first-time visitors, the extensive list of options can quickly become overwhelming.
So we spoke with Empire native and MARVAC member, Gary Becker, owner of Indigo Bluffs RV Park and Resort, to find out what the locals are up to. Here are his top four suggestions.
- Spend a day on North Bar Lake.
North Bar Lake is a small, inland lake situated a short hike over a sand dune from Lake Michigan. For many travelers, swimming in the big lake can be a daunting idea – like any large body of water, it comes with its list of hazards. So if a smaller, clearer lake is more your style, North Bar Lake is the place for you!
This is the perfect spot to bring the family and relax for the day. Your kids will love the lake’s sandy bottom and warm waters, and you’ll rest easy knowing you don’t have to be mindful of undertows or large waves.
But if you are looking for a little more thrill, you can climb the pathway across the sand dune and test the waters of Lake Michigan or hunt for Petoskey stones along the shoreline.
- Cruise along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.
After you’ve cooled off in North Bar Lake, grab your bike and head to the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trails. With a trailhead located on Bar Lake Road, you’ll have easy access to the 16-mile paved path. Stop at some of the shops in neighboring towns, like Glen Haven and Glen Arbor, or simply stick to the trail and take in the gorgeous scenery. And with only a few gradual hills, the whole family can enjoy the ride.
- Float down the Platte River.
The river is segmented into the Lower Platte and Upper Platte River, and they both offer very different experiences.
Lower Platte River: There’s nothing more relaxing than a lazy float trip. Lower Platte offers slow moving water, which you can explore any way you like: canoe, kayak, inflatable tube, standup paddle board, or raft. Generally the trip takes between one and two hours, depending on your floatation device, and the river is only three feet deep at the lowest point, making it the perfect family experience – your dog can even tag along!
If you’re traveling alone or with your significant other, try going early in the morning when the river is the most peaceful. The already stunning views will be much more scenic with the light glow of an early sunrise.
Upper Platte River: The Upper Platte offers a more adventurous experience than that of the Lower Platte. With quicker moving water, it’s advisable that only experienced kayakers or canoers venture down this waterway. The trip can take between three and four hours, and although you won’t experience any rapids, there are portions of the river that will require quick maneuvers.
There are multiple kayak and canoe rental places in Empire that will provide you with everything you need to make this a fun-filled, memorable experience, including a shuttle back to your car.
- Go stargazing at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Take advantage of the unrestricted views of the night sky while you’re here, too! If you come from a city or a place with heavy light pollution, prepare to be amazed by the number of stars you’ll experience.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers stargazers two different viewing events: the Weekly Evening Program, a ranger-guided experience, that will educate you on what to look for as well as some of the legends behind the stars; and the Monthly Star Party Events which vary from month to month and depend on what kind of astrological event is taking place. But regardless of the event you attend, you’re in for a real show.
So there you have it folks, the four activities you can’t pass up if you find yourself in Empire, Michigan this summer!