In our last blog article we offered some suggestions for seeing fall color from the water. In today’s blog we will give you some ideas for seeing fall foliage from the air. Soar high above the changing leaves to experience a northern Michigan autumn.

Aerial Tour by Airplane

See autumn like you’ve never seen it before as you circle above Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the landscape that looks completely different from the air. Not only are the changing colors of the leaves captivating but the view of the dunes, water and islands are indescribable. Sleeping Bear Flightseeing offers tours of Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Leelanau Peninsula and Grand Traverse Bay in one and two-hour tours.

Aerial Tour by Hot Air Balloon

Taking a ride in a seven-story balloon is an experience in its own right but add the magnificent Michigan fall foliage, waters of Lake Michigan, dunes and rivers for something unique. Enjoy panoramic views while you float effortlessly above nature’s brilliance. Grand Traverse Balloons offers balloon flights in all four seasons; their baskets accommodate up to 10 passengers.

Aerial Tour by Helicopter

Create a memory for with your friends and family by chartering a helicopter to see the incredible Grand Traverse landscape. Helicopters can maneuver where airplanes can not. Although we don’t have specific recommendations for a charter helicopter, there are local aviation services available through the Cherry Capital Airport and helicopter charter companies through local search pages.

Aerial Tour by Hang Gliding, Paragliding or Sailplane

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore does allow powerless flight devices in specific areas of the park with a permit. Pilots can launch powerless flight devices from Empire Bluff, Pyramid Point and the Lake Michigan Overlook on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive during the peak color season. The Dune Climb is also available for launching a devise but only after November 1st. There are conditions for flying to ensure the safety of the pilot and those on the ground. Visit the Powerless Flight section of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore website for more information.

Blog by Ileana Habsburg-Snyder