In celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Superintendent Dusty Shultz is pleased to announce that the entrance fee to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) will be waived during the upcoming holiday weekend, beginning Saturday, January 14 and continuing through Monday, January 16.

The National Lakeshore, along with the other 397 units of the national park system, will waive the entrance fees as part of a nationwide initiative to encourage everyone to visit and experience the many wonders of their national parks acrossAmerica.  The other fee-free days this year include:  April 21-29 (National Park Week), June 9 (Get Outdoors Day), September 29 (National Public Lands Day), and November 10-12 (Veterans Day Weekend).

Winter is a great time to explore the National Lakeshore.  Visit the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire (open 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily) to learn about all the park has to offer in winter.  Bring your inner tube or saucer and enjoy the designated sliding hill at the Dune Climb, or cross-country ski/snowshoe one of the many trails in the park.  Also, don’t forget to join us for a Park Ranger-led snowshoe hike every Saturday. Hikes begin at 1:00 p.m. at the Visitor Center. Reservations are encouraged.  Park Ranger-led snowshoe hikes are limited to 30 participants.  Please call 231-326-5135, ext. 328, for details and to make reservations.

For more in-depth information, please call the National Lakeshore at 231-326-5134 or visit their website at www.nps.gov/slbe.

Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) on snowshoes this winter! Join Park Rangers for a guided snowshoe hike this holiday season and every Saturday throughout the winter.  The first hike of the season will be on Thursday, December 29 at 1:00 p.m.  Thereafter, regularly scheduled Saturday snowshoe hikes will start up again on Saturday, January 7 at 1:00 p.m.  Meet at the National Lakeshore Visitor Center in Empire.  If you do not have your own, snowshoes will be loaned out at no charge.

Inside the Visitor Center, Park Rangers will first provide basic snowshoeing instructions and then everyone will travel by car to the trailhead or area of the National Lakeshore pre-selected for that day. Once there, the Park Ranger will help participants learn about the park’s unique features and winter’s effect on them by exploring and discovering clues on site.  Be prepared and plan to be outside until about 3:00 p.m.  Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots to be most comfortable.

Not only is snowshoeing easy, fun, and good exercise, it is also an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.  The Park Ranger-led hikes are mildly strenuous, yet they proceed at a leisurely pace for only one and a half miles at the most. 

 Since the National Park Service has a supply of snowshoes for use within the National Lakeshore, participants need only purchase the park entrance pass or have an annual pass to join in the fun.  Reservations are required.  Park Ranger-led snowshoe hikes are limited to 30 participants.

For more information, please call the National Lakeshore at 231-326-5134, extension 328, for details and to make reservations or visit the website at www.nps.gov/slbe.  Also, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sbdnl.

About the National Park Service:  More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 397 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities.  Learn more at www.nps.gov.

This is an official press release from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire. Release date: December 9, 2011. Contact: Lisa Griebel, 231-326-5134, ext. 301, lisa_griebel@nps.gov.

Blog by Jonathan Schechter of Earth’s Almanac

Article “Spirit Song of a Michigan Ghost Forest” (8/31/11). Reprinted by permission from Earth’s Almanac. All photos are by Jonathan Schechter.

Walk silently through the haunting landscape of the ghost forest of Sleeping Bear Point Trail and wind spirits whisper to you and chatter among the skeletons of long dead cedars.
If you do not hear them you are not listening.  I am sure the Anishinaabek knew the song in their day on Sleeping Bear.

The ghost forest is stark evidence of shifting sand dunes and endless winds that writes new pages  daily in the story of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, an ever-changing masterpiece created by the last glacial retreat and now protected by our National Park Service. 

Sand and wind in concert is powerful.

Although each grain of sand is just the tiniest of specks, in 1931 the U.S. Coast Guard buildings now in the town of Glen Haven had to be moved from Sleeping Bear Point before the migrating dunes buried them.

The story of sand dunes and ghost forests is without end, but to feel the earth moving forces of ice, wind and water that sing nature’s song you must walk the sands.

And I will walk there again in a land that is full of mystery and wonder, and home to black bears, bobcats and perhaps a few cougars. 

NOTE:  Final photo by Shaina O’Dwyer, Environmental Management System Management Representative of  the Grand Traverse Resort And Spa.

During this most recent exploration of Sleeping Bear I was a participant in an environmental writers ecology tour sponsored by the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa www.grandtraverseresort.com with assistance and logistical support  from the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Traverse City www.visittraversecity.com and the staff of the National Park Service at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore  www.nps.gov/slbe.

You can find Jonathan Schechter on his blog at Earth’s Almanac, a blog of The Oakland Press.

By Guest Blogger Diane Ursu

I came armed with vague, childhood memories of great sand dunes . . . and a bike.

Last fall, my parents headed up to Platte River Campground to enjoy the splendor of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. I accepted their invitation to join them since I thought that this might be the best road biking opportunity in Lower Michigan. I really had no idea how true that would be.

I was doomed to experience full days of gloom and rain since I took up residence in a tent, but my patience was rewarded with beautiful, cool days perfect for gallivanting around the lakeshore. I used the rainy days for reading about the dunes and planning my activities. There was so much to do and so little time, so we extended our stay by several days.

North Bar Lake

One of the greatest treasures the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has to offer is the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, named for the lumberman who built the road in the 1960s and operated this Sleeping Bear Dunes Park until his passing in 1976. It became part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 1977.

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is special because it contains points of historic significance, provides ecologic educational opportunities, and offers enjoyable, recreational challenges. I visited the drive on two separate occasions so I could take in all that it has to offer.

The Cottonwood Trail

The Cottonwood Trail at scenic point four meanders through the ever-changing dunes. I couldn’t resist the challenge of embarking on this 1.4-mile hike to photograph the curious signs of erosion, the incredible blowouts and phenomenon of ecological succession, and characteristic plant life, such as juniper berries, bearberries, and buffalo berries. The Cottonwood Trail allows visitors to tour the delicate terrain, but it is the fragility of this environment that prompts me to stress the importance of staying on the trail.

Cottonwood Trail

I could see Glen Lake from the Cottonwood Trail. Also visible from scenic posts two and three, Glen Lake was carved out by glacial erosion and separated from Lake Michigan by the development of a sandbar that is now home to the village of Glen Arbor and the D.H. Day Campground.

The D.H. Day Farm is another spectacular view from the Cottonwood Trail. Built in the late 19th Century, the D.H. Day Farm is named for the man who donated 32 acres of land to the State of Michigan in 1920. This land became the D.H. Day State Park that became part of the national park in 1977.

The Bike Lane

The science and history of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore certainly drew my attention during my visit, but my primary reason for journeying to this area was the prospect of riding my bike on its challenging terrain. I couldn’t resist meeting the challenge of the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive on my cyclocross bike, Jake. That painted white line along the side of the road designating the bike lane screamed, “Ride me!” I really had no choice.

The Pine Plantation

It hurt, but I enjoyed the challenge of the climbs followed by the reward of the descents. One particular hill between scenic posts eight and nine gave me a little trouble. Jake’s gearing wasn’t easy enough for me, so I stalled halfway up. As I was camped out on the side of this hill, several cars went by, including my parents’. They stopped and asked if I wanted a ride, but my pride wouldn’t let me. I told them to go on, clipped in, and proceeded up the hill. After that grueling climb, I turned into the parking lot for scenic points 9 and 10 where visitors looked at me in disbelief. I think they thought that I was crazy. Perhaps they were right.

That grueling climb wasn’t without its reward. I bombed down the final, long downhill to the pine plantation at scenic point 12.

It is short, but the route is interesting enough to do two or three times. I had to use everything I had to climb those hills, from my last bit of strength to sheer determination. The fun and excitement of each descent was enough to convince me to tackle the next hill.

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive isn’t the only riding opportunity for cyclists in and around the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The incredibly hilly land is a giant playground for anyone willing to brave this adventure. Anyone who experiences the freedom of this area will leave with much more than just memories. One will leave with the goal of returning to finish this great adventure.

Diane Ursu is a blogger and cyclist living in Mid-Michigan who shares her experiences at Moronacity.com.

Official Press Release of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

October 3, 2011

Fall was traditionally “shipwreck season” on the Great Lakes.  One hundred years ago, surfmen of the U.S. Life-Saving Service (LSS) set out each night to hike the shoreline in search of ships in distress.  The public is invited to relive history and join Park Rangers to recreate a traditional evening beach patrol.  Dress for the weather and meet at the Sleeping Bear Point Life-Saving Service Station/Maritime Museum in Glen Haven at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 8 and/or October 15.

Beach Patrol Surfman with Life-Preserver

Before radio communications were used at sea, ships could not call for help.  Spotting a vessel in distress from the shore was the only way rescue crews knew that their assistance was needed.  The beach patrol was one essential part of an LSS surfman’s duties.  Following a more in-depth explanation of the patrol process and some local shipwreck stories told from inside the station, the public will accompany National Park Service Rangers for a lantern-lit hike along the beach.  There are always a few surprises along the way and everyone should carry a flashlight for safety.  Wind and rain will only make the patrol more authentic, so be ready for any weather!

 Unlike the original surfmen, hikers may turn back at any time during the one-hour, one mile roundtrip beach walk and return to the Maritime Museum.  There, they will be welcomed by a volunteer and find shelter, warmth and a chance to see how the Life-Saving Service surfmen once lived in the restored crew’s quarters.  The entire program lasts about two hours.

For more information, please call the National Lakeshore at 231-326-5134 or visit their website at www.nps.gov/slbe.  Also, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sbdnl.

Official Press Release of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

September 30, 2011

Please join Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 8, for the Families United with Nature (FUN) event.  This time, join Park Rangers for a FUN afternoon of exploring the outdoors and create your very own nature book!  Meet at the D. H. Day Campground Log Cabin to take a closer look at nature, make bark and leaf rubbings, and wax paper leaf pressings.  Back at the log cabin, everyone can make a nature book about their adventures.  Be sure to dress for the weather.

FUN is a free outdoor activity club for families of all shapes and sizes that is hosted by the National Lakeshore.  Park Rangers lead programs for families to get outdoors together and try their hand at something new, breathe a little fresh air, and meet other families who enjoy being outside.  FUN meets once a month with additional special events throughout the year.  Some of the FUN activities this year included Winter and Summer Olympics, fishing, and a campfire!  Families do not have to attend all activities; just join in on the FUN whenever you can.

Join the club by attending a FUN event and filling out a membership card.  Members will receive free journals to document their outdoor activities.  FUN activities are free; however, a National Lakeshore Entrance Pass is required for each vehicle.  The Entrance Pass costs $10 and is good for a full week for everyone in the vehicle.  The Annual Park Entrance Pass is only $20 and good for a year from purchase date.  Buy either pass at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire.  Reservations for programs are not required, but are recommended by contacting Park Ranger Sarah Chalup at 231-326-5135, ext. 331, or sarah_chalup@nps.gov.

For more information, please call the National Lakeshore at 231-326-5134 or visit their website at www.nps.gov/slbe.  Also, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sbdnl.

Official Press Release from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

September 15, 2011

(Photo by National Park Service)

If you love the sun, fun, and beauty of our area beaches, it is time again to show it! Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is celebrating National Public Lands Day (NPLD) and inviting the public to help clean up its beaches on Saturday, September 24 from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.  Admission to all national parks, including the National Lakeshore, is free that day, and volunteers will receive a voucher to use for entrance to various parks at a later date.  So bring your family, your class, your troop, your group, or just yourself, and join others across the country in protecting our public lands.

NPLD 2011 celebrates service and recreation, and encourages volunteers to get outdoors to explore, enjoy, and improve America’s natural wonders.  NPLD is the largest volunteer hands-on activity of its kind in the country.  Held in September each year, the event brings together thousands of individual and organizational volunteers to refurbish and restore the country’s public lands.  These are the places Americans use for outdoor recreation, education, and just plain enjoyment.  They encompass national parks, monuments, wildlife refuges, forests, grasslands, marine sanctuaries, lakes, and reservoirs managed by government agencies, but belonging to, and enjoyed by, all of us.

The National Lakeshore beach cleanup coincides with the International Coastal Cleanup, which is sponsored by the Ocean Conservancy and takes place around the world every year.  Participants not only contribute to cleaner coastlines, but collect data from the debris they pick up.  That data is then compiled and analyzed by the Ocean Conservancy, and locally by the Alliance for the Great Lakes, a non-profit group concerned with the future of the Great Lakes.  Volunteers will collect and tally all the trash they find along the beaches – plastic bags, balloons, cigarette butts – you name it!

Phillip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire (Photo by NPS)

Park Rangers will meet volunteers at the Visitor Center located on Highway M-72 in Empire. Volunteers should bring water to drink, wear weather-appropriate clothes (rain or shine), sunscreen or hat, and closed-toed shoes.  Tools and other needed materials will be supplied.  As a token of appreciation, each volunteer will also receive a free, one-day pass good for entrance to any federal recreation land (national forest, national park site, wildlife refuge) before September 29, 2012.  Credit for three hours of community service will also be available, if interested.

For details, please contact Interpretive Park Ranger Ryan Locke at the National Lakeshore at 231-326-5134 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/slbe.  Also, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sbdnl.

Official Press Release from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

September 12, 2010

Empire, MI - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) will be hosting a presentation on Lyme disease and ticks on Thursday, September 15, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., in the auditorium of the National Lakeshore Visitor Center in Empire.  Visitors are encouraged to come and learn about tick identification, their life cycles, the diseases they transmit, and the measures used for prevention.

Ticks are significant vectors of pathogens that cause human disease.  Tick-borne diseases do occur inMichigan, and can be serious or fatal if not properly diagnosed and treated.  There have been two reported cases of Lyme disease that the individuals affected believe were contracted while camping on North Manitou Island.  Evidence of similar problems has also been found on the mainland portions of the National Lakeshore.

Michigan State Universityand the Michigan Department of Community Health are working together at the National Lakeshore to research the emergence of Lyme disease and the associated ticks that transmit the disease.  Erik Foster of the Michigan Department of Community Health will be presenting the program on ticks and Lyme disease at no cost to the visitors.

For additional information about this presentation or its location, please contact National Lakeshore Chief of Natural Resources Steve Yancho at 231-326-5134.

By Guest Blogger Ken Snyder of Unified Photography 

On Saturday, October 1, 2011, the world’s largest global social photography event in the history of photography  will take place during the “Scott Kelby’s Worldwide Photo Walk.” The event takes place on the same day around the world where photographers of all walks of life and skill levels gather together, usually in downtown areas to socialize, learn new tips from each other, and explore their corner of the world through photography. This year, Glen Haven, Michigan will be a local host site for one of the 345+ photo walk sites around the world.

Glen Haven Sunset (Ken Snyder, Unified Photography)

Glen Haven, a historic ghost town in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, is a perfect photo walk destination to experience some of Michigan’s most beautiful and magnificent natural wonders. There is no fee to participate but pre-registration is required at Worldwide Photo Walk. Anyone can participate. All you need is a camera. It doesn’t even matter what kind of camera. In the past, people showed up with disposables cameras, had a blast, and left with a new appreciation for photography. Sleeping Bear Dunes is so beautiful that it doesn’t matter what your skill level or camera you bring – you will come away with captivating pictures!

Sleeping Bear Dunes Shoreline (Ken Snyder, Unified Photography)

The social aspect of this event has also transcended into the online world of social networks as well. Participants in the Worldwide Photo Walk post updates to Twitter before, during and after the event under the #WWPW hash tag, they share their pictures on Flickr, and get updates from the National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) via their Facebook page.

Official Press Release from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

September 2, 2011

For Immediate Release

Contact:  Lisa Griebel, 231-326-5134

Empire, MI – Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) on Saturday, September 10 at 9:00 p.m. for an evening under the stars.  Recently, Good Morning America announced that the National Lakeshore was voted the “#1 Most Beautiful Place in America.”  Park Rangers and members of the Grand Traverse Astronomical Society invite you to the Dune Climb to take a closer look at the night sky; a very important part of this beautiful place!  Learn some new constellations, view Jupiter, and find the Milky Way with the help of experienced astronomers.  The Grand Traverse Astronomical Society will bring several telescopes to take a closer look at one of the National Lakeshore’s often forgotten resources – the night sky.

The National Lakeshore and Grand Traverse Astronomical Society are partnering for this event.  The Society has been in existence for 29 years and its members regularly share their knowledge and enthusiasm with the public at the Northwestern Michigan College’s Rogers Observatory in Traverse City.  More recently, the Society has branched out to locations from street corners to national parks, sharing the wonders of the universe with the public.  The park’s first joint Star Party was this past October on the 40th anniversary of the National Lakeshore.  The last monthly Star Party for 2011 will be in October.

The public is invited to join the park on this fun and educational night.  Meet the Park Ranger at the Dune Climb on Saturday, September 10.  The event will begin at 9:00 p.m. and society members will have their telescopes out until 11:00 p.m.  Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight for the walk back to your car.

All Park Ranger-led programs are free.  Participants need only purchase the park entrance pass or have an annual pass displayed on their vehicle to join in the fun.  Please call 231-326-5134, ext. 328, for details or log onto www.nps.gov/slbe.  Also, check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sbdnl.