A group of visitors hiking through the snow with a park ranger at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. (Courtesy: National Park Service)

All hikes begin with an introduction at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire and then take place on potentially hilly and uneven terrain, covering 1-1.5 miles.

If there is enough snow, the winter hike will become a snowshoe hike. Snowshoes will be loaned at no charge to participants who do not have their own. The National Lakeshore has traditional and modern snowshoes available.

All programs are free, but participants do need a park entrance pass or an annual pass to join in the fun. Activities will be weather-dependent.

Reservations are required. Please call 231-326-4700, extension 5010, for details and to make reservations.

If you need to cancel your reservation, please contact the National Lakeshore so that visitors on the waiting list can be informed and take part in the hike.

Hiking is an enjoyable activity suitable for all ages and provides both fun and exercise. The ranger-led hikes are mildly challenging but proceed at a relaxed pace. 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 for about two hours. Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots to be most comfortable.